Intraocular Lenses: Light Adjustable Lens

Intraocular light adjustable lenses (LALs) are a relatively new addition to the world of cataract lenses. This is the only type of intraocular lens (IOL) that can be adjusted once implanted in the eye. 

This is pretty revolutionary stuff! So, how does it work? We break down the features of the light adjustable lens and discuss when it might be an appropriate option during cataract surgery.

Everything You Need to Know about Light Adjustable Lenses

• What is a light adjustable lens?
• How does a light adjustable lens work?
• Is an LAL the right intraocular lens for me?

What is a light adjustable lens?

A light adjustable lens is made from a clear material that responds to ultraviolet (UV) light. Once the lens has been implanted and the eye has healed, your eye doctor will carry out a series of UV adjustments to obtain the optimal focus that suits you. Once this is achieved, the prescription is locked into place and no more changes are possible.

How does a light adjustable lens work?

The first step—the cataract operation and lens implant—is the same as for any other premium lens. Once healed, you’ll return to the doctor’s office where eye tests for focus will be carried out. 

At this point, you’ll be able to experience different focusing choices. You might choose to have your light adjustable lens programmed for far vision and to wear eyeglasses for near-distance focus. Or, you may prefer to have one eye at a slightly different focus to the other, which can often result in a better depth of focus. In some cases, this may mean you’re less reliant on eyeglasses.

The doctor uses short bursts of UV light to change the prescription of the lens within the eye. This takes around 90 seconds, and you may have to return up to four times for optimal results. These appointments are usually scheduled around three days apart. The application of UV light is completely non-invasive and causes no pain.

Once the desired focus is achieved, the lens is locked to the chosen prescription and the treatment is complete.

Is an LAL the right intraocular lens for me?

LALs are a good choice for many but aren’t suitable in all cases. Some reasons that would prevent you from having a light adjustable lens include:

• If you take any medication that makes you sensitive to UV light.
• You take retina-toxic medications.
• You have nystagmus (uncontrolled eye movements).
• You have certain eye conditions, such as macular disease, diabetic retinopathy, or glaucoma.
• You have a history of eye herpes.

However, light adjustable lenses suit many people. If your eyes are generally healthy and you have no underlying conditions, your ophthalmologist may recommend them as an option. You may also be suitable even if you’ve had a previous eye surgery, like LASIK.

It’s important to know that you’ll have to wear UV-resistant eyeglasses from after surgery until the LAL prescription is locked into place. If you’re unable to do this and/or can’t commit to the extra visits to the doctor’s office for the prescription to be determined and altered, then an LAL wouldn’t be the right choice.

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