Lens Implantation Choices

Standard Monofocal Lens Implants

Fixed Focus Monofocal IOLs are used in the majority of cataract procedures. These lenses have the advantage of excellent quality distance vision under a variety of lighting conditions. Since these lenses have a fixed focal point which is generally set for distance vision, reading glasses are typically required for good near vision. For patients willing to use reading glasses for near tasks, these IOLs are an excellent choice. Several million lenses of this variety have been used for decades with an excellent safety record. Recent refinements in the optical quality of these lenses have allowed an even higher quality of vision than previously achievable.

The single-piece silicone monofocal lens is designed to work in harmony with an intact capsulorhexis. The lens has been engineered to respond to anterior capsular rim contraction by gently flexing posteriorly. This ensures placement of the advanced 6.0mm optic in position, closely simulating that of the crystalline lens. The enlarged fenestration holes of the C11UB enhance fixation, and the optimal 10.5mm overall length allows for natural capsular bag contraction.

ReZoom™ Multifocal IOL

Unlike conventional single-vision (monofocal) lens implants, state-of-the-art ReZoom™ lenses have been specially designed with multifocal zones that provide good vision across the spectrum of varying distances and light conditions. So you can see well anywhere and anytime, be it near, far or in between. Patients no longer have to settle for monofocal lenses that only provide good distance vision with limited ability to see objects that are near without glasses.

The ReZoom™ Multifocal Lens is a clear, foldable implant made of a high-refractive-index acrylic material. This new technology multifocal lens is designed to provide a full range of vision – near, distance and intermediate – after cataract treatment.

Crystalens® Lens Implants

We offer Crystalens® lens implants at our Racine and Kenosha offices in Southeastern Wisconsin in order to restore a patient's vision at all distance ranges. Often used after cataract surgery to replace a cloudy lens, Crystalens® is just one of the fine lens implant options that we offer at The Eye Centers of Racine & Kenosha to accommodate your particular eye care needs.

• What is Crystalens®?
• How does Crystalens® work?
• What results can I expect from Crystalens®?
• Is Crystalens® right for me?

What is Crystalens®?

The result of more than 15 years of research, Crystalens® is single-focus lens implant used to replace the natural lens of the eye following the removal of a cataract. The Eye Centers of Racine & Kenosha are one of only three ophthalmology practices certified to use Crystalens® in the Racine and Kenosha area. We are proud to have such a distinction for using Crystalens® at our offices serving the Racine and Kenosha area.

Approved by the Food and Drug Administration, Crystalens® is both the first and only accommodating intraocular lens implant in the United States. Crystalens® is designed to mimic the eye's natural process of accommodation, the process by which the natural lens of the eye and eye muscles are able to provide a full range of vision.

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How does Crystalens® work?

Crystalens® works in conjunction with the ciliary muscle, the focusing muscle in the eye. The ciliary muscle alters the power and focus of the eye's natural lens. When the Crystalens® is placed in the eye, the lens implant's flexible hinges allow the lens to move forward and backward in the eye, accommodating to the contractions of the ciliary muscle. The specially designed hinges of the Crystalens® have undergone extensive testing and have shown no fatigue even after a million cycles.

View a demonstration of how Crystalens® works

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What results can I expect from Crystalens®?

While results of Crystalens® will vary from patient to patient, the findings of a study conducted by the Food and Drug Administration showed exceptional results. The study found that:

• 98 percent of Crystalens® patients could pass driver's license eye exams, experiencing 20/32 vision or better
• 100 percent of Crystalens® patients had good intermediate vision, allowing them to see their computer monitor or an object at arm's length without the assistance of prescription glasses
• 98 percent of Crystalens® patients had good near vision, allowing them to read numbers in the phone book and newspaper stock quotes without the assistance of prescription glasses
• 93 percent of Crystalens® patients stated they did not require prescription glasses to perform most daily activities

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Is Crystalens® right for me?

The best way to determine if you are a good candidate for Crystalens® is to visit our offices. We will be happy to discuss all of the eye care options available to you and help you determine the procedure that is best suited to meet your individual needs.

To schedule a consultation for Crystalens® at our Racine or Kenosha office, contact an ophthalmologist at The Eye Centers of Racine & Kenosha today.

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Lens Implantation Procedure

The Crystalens® procedure is performed in our outpatient surgical area. A number of topical drops will be placed in your eye and you may be administered medications to help you relax. The eye drops anesthetize your eye and dilate your pupil.

Once in the surgery suite, you will lie down on a comfortable bed, a microscope will be positioned over your eye, and you will be asked to look up into the light of the microscope. The actual surgery usually takes less than 15 or 20 minutes. Your lids will be gently held open with a small instrument. You will feel no pain, only slight pressure on your eye. All you have to do is relax and hold still.

The recovery period is usually short. Most patients are able to pursue normal activities almost immediately after surgery. Discuss with your doctor beforehand what to expect before, during, and after the procedure as well as eye drops and postoperative office visits.

The link below is available for users who want to see the actual surgical procedure performed.

Cataract Removal / Lens Implantation Video
Warning: The video is quite graphic and may be objectionable material for some viewers.