Reviewed by: Dr. Jon Berlie
Imagine if cataract surgery not only restored your vision but actually gave you better eyesight than you had before. With the latest advancements in Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) technology, that’s now a reality.
As over 24 million Americans over age 40 experience vision loss due to cataracts, a growing number are discovering that the right lens choice can drastically improve their post-surgery vision.
Light-adjustable lenses from RxSight are the only FDA-approved lenses that can be adjusted after surgery, more than doubling the chances of achieving 20/20 distance vision.
But how does a Light Adjustable Lens work, and why is it such a game-changer? If you’ve been curious about what LAL can offer or if this might be the answer to improving your vision long-term, read on to learn how this technology is reshaping laser cataract surgery outcomes.
What Is a Light Adjustable Lens?
The Light Adjustable Lens from RxSight is the first and only FDA-approved lens that can be adjusted after cataract surgery. Unlike traditional lenses, which are set at the time of surgery and cannot be altered, the LAL allows surgeons to adjust its focus after it has been implanted in the eye. This customization is achieved using a specialized light device known as the Light Delivery Device (LDD), which fine-tunes your vision post-surgery to meet your specific needs.
This breakthrough future innovation in eye care surgery is changing the landscape of cataract surgery, especially for patients with prior eye surgeries such as LASIK treatment or radial keratotomy (RK) and those with irregular corneas. These factors often make it challenging to achieve accurate measurements for traditional intraocular lenses (IOLs).
Why Are Light Adjustable Lens So Effective?
The Light Adjustable Lens offers several advantages for patients, particularly those with prior eye procedures or unique eye conditions. Here are some of the reasons why LAL technology is so effective:
Precision in Postoperative Vision
Standard IOLs often require additional corrective procedures or glasses after surgery. But, with the LAL, patients experience a level of precision that can help them achieve clear, near-perfect vision without additional corrections. Adjustments can be made weeks after surgery, allowing for a tailored solution unique to each eye’s healing process.
Flexibility in Correction
With LAL technology, there’s room to adjust for slight imperfections post-surgery, even if they weren’t apparent before. This is a huge step forward because healing can change vision slightly, and now adjustments can happen even after the lens is in place. This flexibility is particularly helpful for patients who need a more specific focus.
Less Need for Glasses
One of the biggest benefits patients report is reduced reliance on glasses for everyday activities. By adjusting the lens to exact specifications, LAL can help patients achieve a visual outcome closer to 20/20. This improvement in everyday visual independence can significantly impact a patient’s quality of life.
How Does Light Adjustable Lens Work?
The LAL process begins like a standard laser cataract surgery, with the surgeon implanting the LAL in place of the cloudy lens. The unique part happens after surgery when the surgeon uses a Light Delivery Device to adjust the lens. Here’s how it works in steps:
- Implantation: The LAL is implanted during cataract surgery, replacing the cloudy lens affected by cataracts.
- Healing Period: After surgery, your eye needs a few weeks to heal. During this period, patients wear UV-protective glasses to prevent unwanted changes in the lens.
- Adjustments with Light Delivery Device (LDD): After the eye has healed, the surgeon performs adjustments with the LDD. This process uses specialized light to “lock in” the lens’s final shape and refractive power, allowing for precise adjustments in vision.
- Follow-Up Adjustments (If Needed): If additional adjustments are necessary, the surgeon can make small refinements until the desired vision is achieved. Each session is quick, lasting under two minutes.
Learn more about how Light Adjustable Lenses can assist in laser vision correction.
Who Can Benefit from Light Adjustable Lenses?
Light Adjustable Lenses are particularly beneficial for:
- Patients with Prior LASIK treatment or RK Surgery
- Individuals with Astigmatism or Irregular Corneas
- Patients Seeking Visual Independence
What to Expect After Light Adjustable Lens Treatment
After the adjustments, most patients experience significant visual improvements. Many report their vision feels similar to what they had after LASIK treatment, with fewer issues like halos or glare. The LAL has been designed to improve distance vision and create a seamless transition for day-to-day activities. However, some patients may need a small prescription for specific tasks like night driving or reading fine print.
Is a Light Adjustable Lens Right for You?
Are you, or someone close to you, considering cataract surgery and looking for an option that could provide sharp, customizable vision—even years after LASIK or other eye procedures?
Contact us to learn how adjustable lens technology in eye care could be part of your journey to clearer vision.
**Please note that the suggestions provided in this blog are for general informational purposes only and may not be suitable for your specific insurance plan and eye care needs. It is important to consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment.**
