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Light Adjustable Lens
Have you been diagnosed with cataracts? Are you interested in refractive lens exchange? As you begin to research cataract surgery or lens replacement surgery, you will learn that there are different intraocular lens (IOL) types available which can replace your natural lens.
At Wichita Vision Institute, we are proud to be the only practice in Wichita to offer the most advanced option available: the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL). As the only practice in Wichita also offering laser cataract surgery, we combine cutting-edge technology with personalized care to give you the best possible vision outcomes.
What is a Light Adjustable Lens?
The Light Adjustable Lens is one of the most advanced and customizable IOLs available. Unlike traditional IOLs that are permanently set at the time of surgery, the LAL can be fine-tuned after your eye has healed.
After your cataract surgery, you and Dr. Patel will work together to optimize your vision based on how your eye responds to the new lens, rather than relying solely on pre-surgery measurements and predictions. With LAL lenses, we can actually “test drive” different prescriptions and adjust your lenses until your vision is right for your lifestyle and needs.
How Does the Light Adjustable Lens Work?
The LAL lens is an extended depth of focus (EDOF) lens which stretches and elongates light instead of splitting light. The LAL is made from a special photosensitive material that responds to ultraviolet (UV) light. After your cataract surgery, you will need to wear special UV protective glasses for several weeks to months while your eye heals. During this time, the lens material remains adjustable. Once your eye has stabilized, typically 4–8 weeks after surgery, you will begin the adjustment process with your eye doctor. If you have had prior eye surgeries, it may take longer for your eye to stabilize after cataract surgery or lens replacement surgery.
Using a specialized UV light delivery system in our office, Dr. Patel can precisely reshape specific areas of your lens. This process is completely painless and takes only a few minutes per treatment. The light treatment changes the shape and power of the lens in incredibly precise ways. It can correct for nearsightedness, farsightedness, and even astigmatism to improve vision at distance, intermediate, and near. Most patients need 1–3 light treatments to achieve their optimal vision. Once you are happy with your vision, we perform two “lock-in” treatments that permanently set the lens adjustments. Until both lock-in treatments are completed, you will need to wear the special UV protective glasses.
LAL vs. LAL+: Which Option is Right for You?
At Wichita Vision Institute, Dr. Patel offers both the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) and the enhanced LAL+ option:
LAL
Provides excellent distance vision correction and some intermediate vision with the ability to fine-tune your prescription after surgery. This option is ideal if you’re comfortable using reading glasses for close-up tasks and primarily want crisp, clear distance vision.
LAL+
Offers all the benefits of the standard LAL, plus enhanced intermediate and near vision capabilities. This advanced option reduces your dependence on reading glasses for activities like computer work, reading menus, and other daily tasks. The LAL+ uses sophisticated optics to provide a broader range of clear vision.
During your consultation, Dr. Patel will discuss your lifestyle, visual needs, and preferences to help determine which option aligns best with your goals.
What to Expect with the Light Adjustable Lens
Your LAL journey begins with a comprehensive eye examination and detailed measurements of your eyes. We use advanced diagnostic equipment to map your eye’s unique characteristics and discuss your vision goals.
On surgery day, we will use our LenSx laser to perform your cataract removal with exceptional precision. Our LenSx laser performs these critical steps with computer-guided precision, including creating perfectly sized and positioned incisions, breaking up your cataract into tiny pieces for easier removal, and correcting astigmatism during the procedure.
The Light Adjustable Lens is then carefully positioned in your eye. The surgery itself typically takes less than 30 minutes, and you will go home the same day.
After surgery, you will need to wear special UV-protective glasses whenever you are in bright light or any sunlight. These glasses are crucial during the adjustment period because they prevent uncontrolled changes to your lens from environmental UV exposure.
Your first adjustment appointment usually occurs as early as 4 weeks after surgery, once your eye has healed sufficiently. During this visit, we test your vision, determine what adjustments would make your vision clearer and let you try on that adjustment. Once you decide you like the trial adjustment, we perform a light treatment.
The light treatment itself is quick and comfortable. You’ll simply look at a light while the system makes precise adjustments to your lens.
Most patients achieve their desired results within 1–3 treatments. Once we have optimized your vision, we perform the final lock-in treatments to permanently set your adjustments.
Benefits of Choosing Light Adjustable Lens
The LAL offers several advantages over traditional IOLs. Here are a few of the most significant benefits:
Is the Light Adjustable Lens Right for You?
The LAL is an excellent choice for patients who want the most customized vision outcomes and are willing to commit to the post-surgery adjustment process. Ideal candidates are those who:
- Want to minimize dependence on glasses
- Have realistic expectations about the adjustment process
- Can commit to wearing UV-protective glasses as directed
- Desire the most advanced cataract surgery technology available
During your consultation, we will evaluate your eye health, discuss your lifestyle and vision goals, and help you understand whether the LAL is the best choice for your situation.
Why Choose Wichita Vision Institute?
As the only practice in Wichita offering both laser cataract surgery & Light Adjustable Lenses, we provide access to the most advanced treatment options available. Our combination of LenSx laser technology and Light Adjustable Lens gives you the best opportunity for exceptional vision outcomes.
Our experienced team is dedicated to helping you achieve your best possible vision. We will personally guide you through every step of the process, from initial consultation through final adjustments, ensuring you feel confident and informed throughout your journey to clearer sight.
If you are considering cataract surgery or lens replacement surgery and want to explore the most advanced options available, schedule a consultation at Wichita Vision Institute in Wichita, KS with Dr. Reena Patel to learn more about how Light Adjustable Lens technology can transform your vision and your life.
