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Crystalens Procedures

Crystalens is a lens implant for your eye that replaces lenses that have become rigid due to age or clouded with cataracts. The crystalens works just like your natural lens. The muscles of your eye controls the lens so you can focus on objects that are far away or close up.

  1. Procedure

    • Receive crystalens during routine cataract surgery. The procedure begins with the insertion of drops that numb your eye. A micro incision is then made along the edge of your cornea. Your natural lens is washed away with an eye rinse and the crystalens is implanted. The surgery takes about 20 minutes to complete. The procedure is painless and you will be given medication so you can relax. It is recommended to have the procedure performed on both eyes. Only one eye is done at a time with the second surgery scheduled approximately two weeks after.

    Recovery

    • Expect to recover quickly after your crystalens implant surgery. You should be able to resume some activities the same day. You will probably have a follow up visit with your eye doctor the day after surgery to evaluate your recovery. You should be allowed to return to work and drive within three days. Your vision should improve immediately after the surgery, but your eyes may be sensitive. Avoid straining your eyes. Avoid heavy lifting and straining, which would apply pressure to your eyes. Refrain from wearing make up or visiting a public pool for a few weeks after your procedure to prevent infection. The crystalens only partially absorbs UV rays so you should wear sunglasses when you go outside after having the procedure.

    Risks

    • Understand the potential risks before you consent to having the crystalens procedures performed on your eyes. Cataract surgery and lens replacement is a very common surgery and complications are rare but they do occasionally occur. Serious risks include hemorrhage, retinal detachment and infection. In addition, loss of vision, loss of your eye or partial loss of vision can occur. There is a risk the crystalens will become dislodged and require additional surgery to recover it. Minor complications can also occur in the form of temporary visual disturbances. If you have a chronic health condition such as diabetes, chronic infections or high blood pressure, your risk of complications are greater. The University of Rochester Medical Center reports that 98 percent of patients who have this surgery have no complications.

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