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Aloha Laser Vision

Posts for the ‘Implantable Contact Lens’ Category

Visian Implantable Collamer Lens provides U.S. Bobsled Pilot with the vision to lead his Team to first Olympic Gold in 62 Years

Posted on March 10, 2010 11:39PM in Implantable Contact Lens

In a historic moment for the United States bobsled team, Steven Holcomb piloted bobsled USA-1 to the Olympic gold medal in the four-man event, ending a 62-year Olympic medal drought for the American. Holcomb’s heroic mastery of the treacherous track is made even more significant by the fact that not long ago, he had 20/500 vision — “profound visual impairment” caused by keratoconus– that very nearly ended his bobsledding career. Contact lenses could no longer provide the level of visual acuity required for Holcomb to compete. Finally, with the help of U.S. bobsled coach Brian Shimer, he was deemed a good candidate for the Visian ICL. Holcomb said. “I couldn’t wear contacts the day of the surgery, so they literally had to walk me around the room. And then they did it, I got up, and just like that, I was 20/20. It’s incredible. I call it an eye-opening experience.”

Imagine Taking Clear Vision For Granted

Posted on March 17, 2009 6:23PM in Implantable Contact Lens

Patients seeking vision correction now have an exciting new option: Visian ICL™, an implantable contact lens. Visian ICL™ is the first foldable lens of its kind to receive FDA approval. Unlike traditional contact lenses that are placed on the surface of the eye, Visian ICL™ is surgically placed inside the eye where it may provide exceptional quality of vision and predictable outcomes. Just when you thought you had seen it all, a new procedure is set to redefine vision correction. Named Visian ICL™, the procedure corrects vision from a completely different perspective. Visian ICL™ is the first lens of its kind to receive FDA approval for use in the United States. After LASIK was introduced many people thought that vision correction had acheived its ultimate evolution. Now there is reason to reconsider, as a new vision correction procedure has received FDA approval for use in the United States. The new procedure is Visian ICL™. The simple implantation procedure is performed on an outpatient basis by ophthalmologists who are certified in the Visian ICL™ procedure. According to Dr. Alan Faulkner, “It’s the same procedure that I have performed on cataract patients for years, so it’s quite familiar to me.” The ophthalmologist makes a small incision where the cornea meets the white part of the eye and inserts the foldable lens, which unfolds into place. The procedure takes 15 to 30 minutes and is done using topical anesthesia. Typically, patients can see very clearly within a few hours after the procedure. Visian ICL™ is cosmetically pleasing, as well. The lens is placed in the posterior chamber, between the iris and in front of the crystalline lens. The placement makes it invisible to the patient and others. Further, the lens avoids contact with any eye structures, providing safety, stability, comfort and predictable outcomes. Once in place, the lens stays there indefinitely and should require no maintenance. Except for outstanding vision and an annual checkup, the patient may forget the lens is even there. Visian ICL™ is made of an advanced lens material called Collamer® that may provide exceptionally clear vision and practically eliminates reflectance of light that can cause glare, halos and compromised night vision. A highly biocompatible lens material, Collamer® does not trigger an inflammatory response in the body and minimizes the occurrence of inflammation, induced astigmatism, and other complications.More than 55,000 patients worldwide have had the Visian ICL™ procedure. The lens has been subjected to numerous scientific studies and continuing refinement over time. In a rigorous US clinical trial, the satisfaction rate among patients was impressive: 99.4% reported satisfaction three years after the procedure. Visian ICL™ is being introduced by STAAR Surgical, Company, a leading developer, manufacturer and marketer of minimally invasive ophthalmic products. If you are considering vision correction options, you are encouraged to contact Dr. Alan Faulkner at 792-EYES (3937) to discuss the possibilities of Visian ICL™, the new 21st century option for vision correction. Dr. Faulkner is the only certified Visian surgeon performing procedures in Hawaii.

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Frequently Asked Questions – Visian ICL Implantable Contact Lens

Posted on February 27, 2009 6:33PM in Implantable Contact Lens

How do I know if I’m a candidate?

A good candidate for the Visian ICL is a patient between the ages of 21 and 45 who is nearsighted. It is preferable that the patient has not had previous eye surgery or a history with ophthalmic disease such as glaucoma, iritis, or diabetic retinopathy. Our practice offers a complimentary screening to determine if you are a candidate for this exciting procedure.

Where in the eye is Visian ICL placed?

The Visian ICL is surgically inserted inside the eye just behind the iris in front of the eye’s natural lens. It is inserted by a trained ophthalmologist through a micro-incision. The Visian ICL does not touch any internal eye structure and stays in position without maintenance, indefinitely.

What is the track record of Visian ICL?

Extensive research and development preceded the introduction of Visian ICL. It is now being used by more than 65,000 patients worldwide. The satisfaction rate among patients is extremely high – above 99%. The Visian ICL provides unparalleled quality of vision and has excellent and stable outcomes for patients with moderate to severe myopia. The Visian ICL has been available internationally for over 10 years.

Does it hurt?

No, most patients state that they are very comfortable throughout the procedure. We use a topical anesthetic drop prior to the procedure. Your surgeon may choose to administer a light sedative, as well.

What if my vision changes?

The Visian ICL offers treatment flexibility. If your vision changes dramatically, the lens can be removed and replaced, or another procedure can be performed at any time. With the Visian ICL, you can wear glasses or contact lenses if necessary. The Visian ICL does not help presbyopia (the difficulty with reading which is experienced by people over the age of 40), but you can wear reading glasses if needed.

Can the Visian ICL be seen by the naked eye?

No. The lens is positioned behind the iris where it is invisible to both you and observers. You enjoy a cosmetic appearance that is completely natural. Only your doctor will be able to tell that you’ve had vision correction.

What is the Visian ICL made of?

The Visian ICL is made of Collamer which is an advanced lens material that is highly biocompatible. Collamer does not cause a reaction inside the eye and it contains an ultraviolet filter that provides protection to the eye.

What is involved in the Visian ICL procedure?

One to two weeks before your surgery, your doctor will make a small opening with a laser to allow fluid to pass between the lens and the front chamber of the eye. The actual Visian ICL procedure typically takes approximately 15 minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis, although you will need to have someone with you to drive you home from your procedure, you will be functional when you leave the office. Normally, very little discomfort is associated with this procedure. A light topical drop anesthetic is administered and a mild sedative may be given. In addition, eye drops or an oral medication may be prescribed. You will come back to our office the next day for a follow-up visit and we will see you again at one week, one month and six months for follow-ups.

How long does the Visian ICL stay in my eye?

The Visian ICL is intended to remain in place within your eye without any maintenance. Should it become necessary, the lens can be removed by a certified ophthalmologist.

Can the Visian ICL be felt once it is in my eye?

No, the lens is not noticeable after it is put in place. It does not attach to any structures within the eye and it stays in position.

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