Services & Procedures

PRELEX

PRELEX,is an alternative procedure to laser vision correction and other refractive surgical procedure where a multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) is used to correct vision for both near and distance.

PRELEX corrects vision by replacing the eye's natural lens with a multifocal, intraocular lens of the appropriate power for a given eye length and corneal curvature. The new multifocal lens implant creates a new visual system inside the eye, one that can provide the focusing power to see near, intermediate and far images with minimal dependence on corrective lenses. As it mimics your vision when you did not need reading glasses, there is no “training” or learning process. The lens acts like your natural lens and restores your vision to that of your youth.

What is the difference between multifocal and monofocal?

Many vision correction procedures, such as LASIK, change the focusing power of the eye by changing the curvature of the cornea. LASIK, however, cannot easily address the need for reading glasses. Monofocal lenses provide clear vision only at one point of focus either near or far. Multifocal lenses are able to provide clear vision at near, intermediate as well as distance.

What does PRELEX treat?

It correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and presbyopia, a progressive condition typically requiring individuals over the age of 40 to use reading glasses.

Am I a candidate for PRELEX?

The PRELEX procedure is for patients who are nearsighted, farsighted or have corneas that are too thin for laser vision correction. It is also an alternative for those over 40 who wish to eliminate their dependence on bifocals or reading glasses and for those individuals who may be showing sign of developing cataracts.

How is the PRELEX procedure performed?

PRELEX is performed painlessly in an outpatient environment and usually takes just a few minutes. The eye is anesthetized to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. Your surgeon will remove the natural lens from the eye using ultrasonic vibrations through a mico-incision of 3 mm or less. The natural lens is replaced by the foldable multifocal intraocular lens, which is inserted through the micro-incision. Once inside the eye, the lens unfolds as it is placed into permanent position. No sutures are required because the small incision is self-sealing.

For those patients who have some degree of corneal astigmatism requiring additional correction, relaxing incisions can be made in the surface of the cornea to reduce astigmatism at the same time PRELEX is performed.

What can I expect after the procedure?

Following the procedure, you'll go home to rest for the remainder of the day. Although everyone heals differently, most patients see improvement in their vision almost immediately and most resume normal activities within a day or two. PRELEX is usually performed on the second eye a week to several weeks after the first procedure.