Lens Implants vs. Laser Vision Correctionin Boston, MA

Numerous advances in the field of vision correction over the years have made it possible for many people to reduce – and even eliminate – their dependence on glasses and contact lenses. Both laser vision correction and implantable contact lenses can address common conditions such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism, helping you attain much clearer vision without the need for corrective eyewear. With that in mind, how do you know which treatment option is best for you?

The answer to that question is dependent on your unique needs and goals. At your initial eye exam and consultation here at The Nielsen Eye Center, one of our experienced ophthalmologists will perform a thorough evaluation and help you decide which will be the most ideal choice.

While laser vision correction and lens implant procedures are designed to achieve many of the same goals, there are some key differences between each type of treatment:

Laser Vision Correction

Laser vision correction addresses a number of vision conditions by reshaping the eye’s cornea. This makes it possible for improved refraction of light onto the retina, which can help the eye to focus more clearly at a range of distances. Laser procedures such as LASIK can also be very beneficial for individuals with high degrees of astigmatism.

Lens Implants

Lens implants can also improve a range of vision conditions. There are a number of lens implant options, and the best type of implant will depend on your individual needs. Unlike laser vision correction, lens implant procedures do not involve reshaping the cornea. In fact, lens implants can often serve as a viable alternative for patients who are not candidates for laser treatment because of thin corneas, dry eye syndrome, severe visual refractive errors or other factors.

Refractive Lens Exchange

Refractive Lens Exchange procedures involve the replacement of the eye’s natural lens with an intraocular lens implant (IOL). In addition to improving your vision, RLE treatments may eliminate the potential for cataracts to develop in the future.

Visian ICL®

A lens implant such as the Visian ICL®, also known as a Phakic IOL, is an implantable collamer lens that is actually placed behind the iris and in front of the eye’s natural lens. Since the eye’s crystalline lens is left in place, the Visian ICL® is a reversible procedure. This option can be particularly helpful for patients suffering from moderate to severe nearsightedness (myopia).

The important thing to remember is: both lens implant and laser vision correction options are typically very quick procedures with results that are often apparent within just two days. These are state-of-the-art treatments that have proven successful at helping patients all over the world see clearly without heavy reliance on traditional eyeglasses and contact lenses.

Contact the Nielsen Eye Center

If you would like more information on our vision correction options, or if you would like to schedule a consultation, please contact us today.