Crystalens®

The result of more than 15 years of research and development, the first generation of the Crystalens was given FDA approval in 2003 and to date, more than 40,000 lenses have been implanted worldwide. The patented technology is designed to allow the lens to move in the eye in a manner similar to the natural lens. By using the eye's muscle to move the lens back and forwards naturally, patients can focus through a continuous range of vision - both near and far - eliminating dependence on glasses following cataract surgery.

The Crystalens can give reading, arm’s length, and distance vision without glasses because this implant actually adjusts its position within the eye as the eye looks from far to near, like an ‘auto focus’ mechanism on a camera. Its hinged shape allows for this lens movement and gives a seamless transition from far to arm’s Length to near vision.

The newest generation of Crystalens, the Crystalens HD, features an enhanced accommodating optic that, when compared to previous generations of Crystalens® is designed to yield improved depth of focus and improved near vision"

Advantages

Most people with the Crystalens have clear far vision (driving) and intermediate vision (computer) without glasses. Of the available lenses that correct for more than one distance following cataract surgery, the Crystalens is most likely to provide the best vision for driving at night.

Disadvantages

With the Crystalens, some people do need glasses for fine print, especially in dim light. Additionally, there is often a ‘learning curve’ in re-training muscles to focus. However, the newest generations of the Crystalens improve near vision and provide exceptional distance vision and contrast sensitivity for cataract patients.

The Ideal Crystalens Candidate

Active, young seniors who may not mind glasses for very fine print, but need clear vision for driving at night.