{"id":4875,"date":"2020-06-01T09:35:01","date_gmt":"2020-06-01T05:05:01","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/drsiamakzarei.com\/%d9%84%d9%86%d8%b2%d9%87%d8%a7%db%8c-%d8%af%d8%a7%d8%ae%d9%84-%da%86%d8%b4%d9%85%db%8c-%d9%81%db%8c%da%a9%db%8c%da%a9\/"},"modified":"2026-08-27T16:52:22","modified_gmt":"2026-08-27T13:22:22","slug":"phakic-intraocular-lenses","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/drsiamakzarei.com\/en\/phakic-intraocular-lenses\/","title":{"rendered":"Phakic Intraocular Lenses (Phakic IOLs)"},"content":{"rendered":"<h1 dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"2\"><b data-path-to-node=\"2\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">What are Phakic Intraocular Lenses and Who are They Suitable For?<\/b><\/h1>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"3\">Phakic intraocular lenses (Phakic IOLs) are an alternative surgical option for severe myopia (nearsightedness) and serve as an effective substitute for LASIK and PRK. Evidence shows that in certain clinical profiles, these lenses deliver superior visual quality and higher contrast sensitivity compared to excimer laser ablation.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"4\">Phakic IOLs are clear, implantable lenses placed surgically between the iris and the natural crystalline lens, or positioned directly behind the iris\u2014leaving the patient&#8217;s natural crystalline lens intact. By precisely focusing incoming light onto the retina, they eliminate dependence on spectacles.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"5\">Functioning similarly to contact lenses, Phakic IOLs differ fundamentally by correcting refractive errors from within the eye rather than resting on the corneal surface. They are primarily indicated for patients with high myopia who are deemed poor candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas or high refractive power.<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"6,0,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"6,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Surgical Duration:<\/b> Approximately 15 minutes per eye<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"6,1,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"6,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Visual Outcomes:<\/b> 20\/40 uncorrected visual acuity or better<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"6,2,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"6,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Recovery Timeline:<\/b> Several days to a few weeks<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"6,3,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"6,3,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Average Cost:<\/b> Approximately $4,000 per eye<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"6,4,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"6,4,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Permanence:<\/b> Phakic IOLs provide a permanent correction for myopia unless surgically explanted.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"7\"><b data-path-to-node=\"7\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Key Advantages Over Contact Lenses:<\/b><\/h2>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"8,0,0\">Sensation-free; the patient does not feel the lens inside the eye.<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"8,1,0\">Zero daily lens maintenance, cleaning, or disinfection routines.<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"9\">The US FDA has approved primary types of Phakic IOLs selected based on surgeon assessment and patient anatomy:<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"10,0,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"10,0,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Visian ICL (STAAR Surgical):<\/b> Implanted in the posterior chamber between the iris and the crystalline lens. Corrects myopia from -3.00 to -20.00 diopters. Composed of Collamer (a biocompatible collagen-copolymer material), it is foldable and requires only a micro-incision (approx. 3.2 mm), ensuring minimal surgical trauma and sutureless closure.<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"10,1,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"10,1,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Verisyse (Artisan):<\/b> Implanted in the anterior chamber and clipped directly to the anterior surface of the iris. Corrects myopia from -5.00 to -20.00 diopters. Made of rigid polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), it requires a slightly larger corneal incision (approx. 6.0 mm) and sutures.<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"10,2,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"10,2,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Toric Visian ICL:<\/b> Designed to correct concurrent myopia and astigmatism.<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"10,3,0\"><b data-path-to-node=\"10,3,0\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Alcon Phakic IOLs (Cachet):<\/b> Foldable anterior chamber hydrophobic acrylic lenses evaluated extensively across international trials for refractive correction.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"11\"><b data-path-to-node=\"11\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Phakic IOLs vs. LASIK Surgery<\/b><\/h2>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"12\">While LASIK reshapes the cornea using a computer-guided excimer laser, it presents distinct contraindications: high myopia (typically &gt; -8.00 D), thin corneas, irregular topography, keratoconus, or severe dry eye.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"13\">Patients with moderate-to-severe refractive errors benefit significantly from Phakic IOLs. Comparative clinical trials confirm that both modalities deliver stable correction (from -6.00 to -20.00 D) reaching 20\/20 visual acuity without regression, with Phakic IOL patients demonstrating higher contrast sensitivity. Final selection depends entirely on comprehensive pre-operative ophthalmic evaluations.<\/p>\n<h2 dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"14\"><b data-path-to-node=\"14\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Candidacy Considerations<\/b><\/h2>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"15\">To determine eligibility for Phakic IOL implantation, evaluate the following criteria:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"16,0,0\">Myopia level within treatable limits (up to -20.00 D).<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"16,1,0\">Adequate anterior chamber depth (ACD) and verified healthy corneal endothelial cell density.<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"16,2,0\">Age between 21 and 40 years (not designed for presbyopia; patients over 40 may consider monovision strategies).<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"16,3,0\">Refractive stability documented for at least one full year.<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"16,4,0\">Absence of concurrent ocular pathology (cataracts, glaucoma, uveitis).<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"16,5,0\">Absence of systemic or autoimmune disorders compromising healing (e.g., Sjogren&#8217;s syndrome, rheumatoid arthritis, uncontrolled diabetes).<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"16,6,0\">Insurance coverage and financing validation across pre- and post-operative care.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"17\"><b data-path-to-node=\"17\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Perioperative Instructions<\/b><\/h3>\n<h4 dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"18\"><b data-path-to-node=\"18\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Pre-Operative:<\/b><\/h4>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"19,0,0\">Discontinue contact lens wear prior to evaluation to restore baseline corneal curvature.<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"19,1,0\">One to two weeks before surgery (or on the day of surgery depending on protocol), a prophylactic peripheral laser iridotomy (LPI) is performed to prevent post-operative pupillary block and elevated intraocular pressure.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"20\"><b data-path-to-node=\"20\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Intraoperative:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"21,0,0\">Topical anesthetic drops or mild sedation ensure a painless procedure. An eyelid speculum prevents blinking.<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"21,1,0\">The surgeon creates a precise corneal micro-incision (approx. 3.2 mm for Visian ICL; 6.0 mm for Verisyse), inserts and centers the lens, and applies a protective shield. The outpatient procedure takes 10 to 30 minutes. An escort is mandatory for transportation home.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"22\"><b data-path-to-node=\"22\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Post-Operative:<\/b><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"23,0,0\">Noticeable visual improvement begins immediately, with crisp stabilization taking 1 to 4 weeks (Visian ICL recovery is significantly faster, often 1 to 7 days).<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"23,1,0\">Transient mild foreign body sensation, photophobia, and glare are managed with prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops.<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"23,2,0\">Strictly avoid eye rubbing, direct pressure, and strenuous heavy lifting during early recovery.<\/li>\n<li dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"23,3,0\">Mandatory follow-up appointments begin on Day 1 post-op. Most patients resume driving and work within 1 to 3 weeks.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2 dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"24\"><b data-path-to-node=\"24\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Potential Risks and Complications:<\/b><\/h2>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"25\">Though rare in specialized hands, risks include:<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"26,0,0\">Retinal detachment<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"26,1,0\">Endothelial cell loss (regular specular microscopy monitoring is essential)<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"26,2,0\">Intraocular inflammation or endophthalmitis<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"26,3,0\">Optical aberrations (glare, halos, night driving disturbances)<\/p>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"26,4,0\">Secondary cataract development or pupillary distortion<\/p>\n<h2 dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"27\"><b data-path-to-node=\"27\" data-index-in-node=\"0\">Clinical Efficacy:<\/b><\/h2>\n<p dir=\"ltr\" data-path-to-node=\"28\">FDA clinical data indicates that approximately 84% of implanted patients achieve uncorrected visual acuity of 20\/40 or better (legal driving standard), with 31% achieving 20\/20 or better.<\/p>\n<p dir=\"rtl\" data-path-to-node=\"30\">\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What are Phakic Intraocular Lenses and Who are They Suitable For? Phakic intraocular lenses (Phakic IOLs) are an alternative surgical option for severe myopia (nearsightedness) and serve as an effective substitute for LASIK and PRK. Evidence shows that in certain clinical profiles, these lenses deliver superior visual quality and higher contrast sensitivity compared to excimer [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":4839,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[93],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-4875","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-93"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/drsiamakzarei.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4875","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/drsiamakzarei.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/drsiamakzarei.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drsiamakzarei.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drsiamakzarei.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=4875"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/drsiamakzarei.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4875\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":5102,"href":"https:\/\/drsiamakzarei.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/4875\/revisions\/5102"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drsiamakzarei.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/4839"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/drsiamakzarei.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=4875"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drsiamakzarei.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=4875"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/drsiamakzarei.com\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=4875"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}