Trifocal Lens Exchange. Say farewell to glasses!
Whether browsing Instagram, working on your laptop or reading a restaurant menu – if you have to read the text at an ever-increasing distance, then it is likely you have close-range vision impairment.
Typically, presbyopia starts to affect your reading vision as you reach 50 years of age and you may find you’re using reading glasses. Individuals who already wear glasses for distance vision then often need a second pair, bifocals, or multifocal lenses. Expensive and frustrating.
But, there is an answer.
Trifocal Lens Exchange Surgery is a transformative procedure for those seeking optimal vision at all distances without reliance on glasses and the benefits of improved quality of life and long-term vision correction. This procedure replaces (exchanges) your natural lens of the eye with a trifocal lens capable of providing sharp vision at near, intermediate, and distant ranges.
Trifocal lens exchange, also known as refractive lens exchange (RLE) with trifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs), is primarily used for individuals with presbyopia, cataracts, or high refractive errors who want to reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
What are Trifocal lenses?
Trifocal lenses are advanced intraocular lenses that correct vision across three focal points: near (reading), intermediate (computer work), and distance (driving). Unlike traditional monofocal lenses, which only address one focal point, or bi-focal lenses, which cover two, trifocals offer a comprehensive solution, making them an excellent choice for those seeking a glasses-free lifestyle. These lenses use advanced optics to split light entering the eye, allowing for clear vision at all distances.
The procedure
Trifocal lens exchange is a straightforward surgery performed under local anaesthesia. The procedure involves the following steps:
Preoperative Assessment: Our surgical team conducts a very thorough evaluation of the patient’s eyes, including measurements of the cornea, pupil size, and the length of the eye. This ensures the selection of the most suitable lens.
Lens Removal: A small incision is made in the cornea, and the natural lens is gently broken up using ultrasound technology (called phacoemulsification) and removed.
Lens Implantation: The trifocal lens is folded and inserted into the eye through the same incision. Once inside, the lens unfolds and is positioned securely.
The trifocal/multifocal lens corrects presbyopia in addition to other existing vision disorders such as near/farsightedness and astigmatism. The procedure typically takes 15–30 minutes per eye. Most patients have one eye treated at a time, with a short interval between surgeries.
Benefits
- Improved Vision at All Distances: Trifocal lenses provide seamless vision for daily activities, from reading to driving.
- Freedom from Glasses: Many patients no longer require glasses or contact lenses after the procedure.
- Cataract Prevention: As the natural lens is replaced, patients will not develop cataracts in the future.
- Fast Recovery: Most people resume normal activities within a few days of surgery.
Challenges and potential risks
All surgery is not without some risks and possible issues. The commonest are a) Adaptation Period: Some patients experience halos or glare around lights, especially at night, though these typically subside within a few weeks, b) Surgical Risks: As with any surgery, there is a small risk of infection, inflammation, or complications affecting vision.
What’s the next step?
Come and visit us, book now using the form below to attend your no-obligation consultation, or call our friendly team on 020 7224 1005