Wolfe Eye Clinic Surgeon Becomes The First In Iowa To Perform New Vision Correction Procedure
July 3, 2006
Iowans seeking vision correction now have an exciting new option: Visian ICL, an implantable contact lens.
The Visian ICL is the first foldable lens of its kind to receive FDA approval in the United States. "The new lens is a possible option for anyone seeking vision correction, but it is especially useful for patients with extreme refractive error, thin corneas, or excessively dry eyes, who otherwise would not qualify for traditional LASIK surgery," according to Daniel J. Vos, M.D. a surgeon at Wolfe Eye Clinic in Ames.
This month, Dr. Vos was the first surgeon in Iowa to implant the new lenses, offering patients the possibility of a life free of glasses and contacts where none may have existed before.
The Visian ICL is an implantable contact lens that works with the eye to correct vision. Unlike traditional contact lenses that are placed on the surface of the eye, Visian ICL is surgically placed inside the eye where it may provide exceptional quality of vision for a wide range of correction needs. The simple implantation procedure is performed on an outpatient basis by ophthalmologists who are certified in the Visian ICL procedure.
According to Dr. Vos, "It's very similar to the procedure that I have performed on cataract patients for years, so it's quite familiar to me."
The surgeon makes a small incision where the cornea meets the white part of the eye and inserts the foldable lens, which unfolds into place. The procedure takes 20 to 30 minutes and is done using topical anesthesia. Typically, patients can see very clearly within a few hours after the procedure.
Visian ICL is cosmetically pleasing, as well. The lens is placed in the posterior chamber, behind the iris and in front of the eye's natural crystalline lens. The placement makes it invisible to patients and others. Further, the lens avoids contact with any fragile eye structures, providing safety, stability and comfort.
Once in place, the lens stays there indefinitely and should require no maintenance. "Except for outstanding vision and an annual checkup, the patient may forget the lens is even there," according to Dr. Vos.
Visian ICL is made of an advanced lens material called Collamerà that practically eliminates reflectance of light that can cause glare, halos and compromised night vision. This highly biocompatible lens material also minimizes the occurrence of inflammation and other complications.
More than 55,000 patients worldwide have had the Visian ICL procedure. The lens has been subjected to numerous scientific studies and continuing refinement over time. In the recent US clinical trial, the satisfaction rate among patients was impressive with 99.4% of patients reporting satisfaction three years after the procedure.
If you are considering vision correction options, you are encouraged to schedule an evaluation at any Wolfe Eye Clinic office by calling 1-800-237-5393.
"We are very excited to be able to offer this option to our patients," says Dr. Vos. "It allows us to continue to provide our patients with the safest and most advanced treatments available, helping them achieve their best possible vision."