Some patients who have received keratoconus treatments — even a corneal transplant — find that they still have moderate to severe myopia (aka nearsightedness), which makes seeing objects in the distance quite difficult. While a strong nearsightedness prescription is correctable, having to depend so heavily on eyeglasses or contact lenses can feel like a chore.
Visian ICL (implantable collamer lens) is made with collamer, which is perfect for transmitting light and diminishing glare and reflections that can negatively affect vision and being biocompatible with your body. Accordingly, many patients find that their sight is better with Visian ICL than it was with traditional lenses.
Many patients who have keratoconus find that some refractive procedures like LASIK are considered off limits to them. The good news is that Visian ICL can be perfect for patients who have already been treated for keratoconus. Even patients who have Intacs in their eyes and Holcomb C3-R to stop keratoconus’ progression can benefit from Visian ICL. I routinely perform Visian ICL for people with keratoconus to “get their vision to the next level.”
Visian ICL Procedure Details
I perform 1-Step Visian ICL™ in under 10 minutes in the comfort of my office’s special procedure room. I begin by putting a light-numbing gel on the eye to prevent pain. Then, using a micro-opening, I carefully position the lens between the iris and the eye’s natural lens. That allows the natural lens to safely remain in place. The ICL unfolds to fit the predetermined measurements of the eye for optimal vision correction.
Most patients do not experience any discomfort during or after their procedure. Vision is typically improved by the next morning.
Benefits of Visian ICL
Visian ICL is constructed with collamer, a soft, malleable material that contains some collagen so that it can rest comfortably in the eye without posing any rejection reactions. Because Visian ICLs are transparent, friends and colleagues should be unable to tell that you have them in your eyes. Additionally, Visian lenses can be removed in the future if the patient decides to do so for one reason or another.
Why You Should Choose Dr. Brian for Visian ICL
I revolutionized Visian ICL by developing a way to safely perform the procedure on both eyes on the same day.
Furthermore, I use ultrasound-guided imaging technology to measure each eye and fully customize the procedure. Very few surgeons have this capability, which means that patients who choose an ophthalmologist other than me may get a less precise outcome from their Visian ICL. Access to these precise measurements is critical for keratoconus patients and non-keratoconus patients alike.
FAQs
What is Keratoconus?
Keratoconus is the name for a condition whereby the cornea — the transparent front layer of the eye that focuses the light in your environment — thins and bulges, taking on a cone-like shape. When the cornea becomes mishappen, the light rays are brought out of focus, resulting in blurry and distorted vision. This can make everyday tasks, such as driving, reading books, and watching television, challenging. The condition can begin in puberty and progress as you age.
Risk factors include genetics, rubbing of the eye, frequent eye inflammation, and age.
What are the symptoms of keratoconus?
This condition can result in a number of symptoms, including:
- Glare and halos around lights
- Poor vision at night and in low-light environments
- Regular eye irritation
- Headaches that accompany eye pain
- Sudden changes in vision such as clouding
Am I a candidate for Visian ICL?
It is recommended that Visian ICL candidates meet certain criteria to help ensure the best outcome. Patients typically:
- Over 18 years old
- Have astigmatism that ranges from 0.5 to 6.0D
- Have myopia in the mild to severe range
How does Visian ICL work?
Visian ICL works with your natural eye structures to improve vision with Keratoconus. The lens is quickly and painlessly placed by Dr. Brian in only 7 minutes in a predetermined location between the iris and the natural lens of the eye. Once placed, patients don’t not feel or notice the lens but will typically observe an improvement in vision soon immediately afterwards. This procedure reduces the need for glasses, contacts, and other corrective treatments.
Does the procedure hurt?
No. Dr. Brian ensures that patients are comfortable both before and throughout the procedure, which can be completed within just 7 minutes. A numbing gel is applied to the treatment area to block any pain during the procedure.
How long does it last?
Visian ICLs are designed to last decades with no maintenance required. If you decide that you no longer want the ICL in your eyes for any reason, it can be removed. However, most patients are very happy with their results and enjoy great vision and improved quality of life for years to come.
Will others notice the Visian ICL when looking at me?
One advantage to the lens is that it is completely transparent, meaning it is invisible to the naked eye. Rest assured that people will not be able to see the implant or tell that you have had this type of corrective surgery. You are left with an aesthetic appearance that looks and feels natural.
Will I be able to feel the lens?
Once put in place, the lens will not be felt. The ICL is not attached to any structures within the eye, resulting in a natural feel. Further, careful measurements of the eye are taken and the lens is designed to remain in its proper place for an excellent outcome.
Learn More about Visian ICL
Whether or not you have had keratoconus, if you are interested in learning more about the lifestyle improvement that comes with Visian ICL, I am happy to answer all your questions. Please schedule a consultation at my Beverly Hills office (or virtually for my out-of-town patients) by calling 424-274-0958, texting 424-245-0171 or emailing info@boxerwachler.com today.
