PreLex
Prelex stands for PREsbyopic Lens EXchange.
This procedure is also called refractive lens
exchange or clear lens extraction.
It literally means exchanging the natural lens
for a synthetic lens in people who have become
presbyopic or who have blurred vision due to
their age.
Presbyopia is a natural ageing process and
effects everyone.
The muscles which contract and relax allowing
the lens in the eye to change shape, allow for
a change of focus from near to far. In medical
terminology, this process is referred to as
ACCOMMODATION
From around the age of 40+ this process becomes less efficient and results in a LOSS of ACCOMMODATION, also known as PRESBYOPIA.
Presbyopia or blurred vision due to age, can be improved by wearing bifocal or multi focal spectacles or contact lenses. They can take a while to get used to and not everyone can tolerate this form of correction.
The surgical option is a permanent solution and afterwards, most people can perfom everyday tasks without spectacles, although often prefer to wear them for certain activities, like prolonged reading at night. People who have had PreLex will not develop cataracts in later life.
PreLex Procedure
The procedure is similar to a cataract procedure. Cataract procedures are a routine procedure with an excellent safety profile.
The pre-operative assessment and lens selection process is of paramount importance and therefore a number of painless measurements and in depth discussions will need to take place to ensure the best possible outcome.
What are the symptoms of Presbyopia?
Reading becomes increasingly more difficult. Words are blurry close up and you may notice that you have to hold books / menus / newpspapers at arms length.
At the ' arms length' stage you may find a pair of readers is sufficient to help with the problem.
When is PreLex appropriate?
When arms are ' no longer long enough' or when swapping specs to focus at different distances becomes intolerable, is often the time when a person might seek a permanent solution to the problem.
Sports people or those with demanding visual requirements may seek help earlier. Some wait until they are also troubled with a cataract.
Mr Rajesh Aggarwal Consultant Eye Surgeon
6 6 Vision
