Dr. Ralph Chu of Chu Vision Institute in Minnesota, a renowned surgeon, has always been at the forefront of advancements in refractive and cataract surgery and is keen to bring the latest lens implant technology to his patients. One of the innovative procedures he performs is cataract surgery with the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL). This procedure is so unique because Dr. Chu can fine-tune your vision over a period of time after your surgery. And the best news, this fine-tuning only requires you to sit in front of a special ultraviolet (UV) light for the micro-adjustments to be made – no additional surgery is needed!
LAL is a revolutionary technology developed in the United States that offers unprecedented precision and personalization in vision correction. The intraocular lens (IOL) is made of a unique silicone material that changes shape when exposed to ultraviolet light. After the LAL implantation, patients undergo a series of non-invasive treatments during which the implanted lens is exposed to a precise amount of UV light to achieve the desired refraction. The advantage of the LAL is that the lens power can be adjusted post-operatively until the patient’s vision is near perfect, reducing the reliance on glasses, readers, or contact lenses.
Patients in Minneapolis and the greater Twin Cities area have a place they can go to receive this latest vision correction treatment – Chu Vision Institute!
Understanding the LAL Procedure
We begin with a thorough eye examination that includes a 360-degree assessment of the eye, including the cornea, retina, and overall eye health. Dr. Chu, with his skilled team, ensures patients understand the procedure, post-operative care, and potential risks.
The LAL is implanted into the eye as part of a custom lens replacement or cataract surgery. The lens implant replaces the natural lens, addressing far-sightedness, near-sightedness, and astigmatism. With Light Adjustable Lenses, we can correct refractive errors within a broad range of focusing power (called diopters), enabling precise vision correction customized to your individual needs.
Following the implantation, the eyes need time to heal. It’s essential to use eye drops as prescribed to facilitate healing and reduce inflammation after the surgery. Then, approximately a month later, the adjustment process begins. This involves exposure to a device that emits UV light. The process allows precise adjustments to the shape of the LAL, correcting any refractive errors. Over the course of 3-5 visits, the doctor makes tweaks to the prescription for you to test drive until it is fine-tuned to your ideal prescription. During this process, you will need to wear special UV-protective sunglasses we will provide you so the lens doesn’t get accidentally altered by sunlight.
Benefits of LAL
LAL is an FDA-approved IOL that offers a multitude of benefits. It not only treats common vision impairments such as myopia (near-sightedness), hyperopia (far-sightedness), and astigmatism but also enables fine-tuning of vision post-surgery. This flexibility results in superior clarity, reducing a patient’s dependence on corrective lenses like eyeglasses or contact lenses. All other IOLs used in cataract surgery predict the best prescription for you. The LAL removes any guesswork.
While cataract surgery with the LAL brings numerous advantages, like any medical procedure, it carries potential risks. These include photosensitivity, infection, and vision fluctuations. However, under Dr. Chu’s expert care, the risk management strategies are well in place to minimize any potential complications.
Those experiencing presbyopia, a condition common in individuals over the age of 40, can greatly benefit from the LAL procedure as well. The procedure offers a tailored approach to vision correction, suitable for various lifestyles, whether that involves computer work, sports, or driving.
LAL is a terrific option for people who had LASIK surgery in the past. Other Advanced Lifestyle Lenses may not be the best choice for post-LASIK patients, however, the LAL can help you return to that LASIK-like clarity you are used to.
Why Choose Chu Vision in Minneapolis and the Twin Cities
Choosing the right surgeon and clinic for your LAL surgery is vital. At Chu Vision, we prioritize patient safety, comfort, and satisfaction above all. Dr. Chu, with his expert team, brings their combined experience and the latest technology to deliver optimal results. Chu Vision is also one of the few eye care facilities that offer the post-surgery light adjustments in our own office instead of a separate facility. Dr. Chu’s meticulous attention to detail, coupled with personalized care, makes Chu Vision an ideal choice for patients considering LAL for their cataract surgery.
Finally, Chu Vision’s staff will provide the necessary information and assistance in understanding the potential costs and payment options.
In essence, LAL offers an unparalleled level of personalization in vision correction. Under Dr. Chu’s expert care, it presents a unique opportunity for patients to gain freedom from the limitations of glasses, readers, or contact lenses and experience life with greater clarity.
Find your true north with New Vision.
Life with Light Adjustable Lenses
Life after LAL surgery holds many possibilities. Imagine participating in your favorite hobbies without the inconvenience of glasses or contact lenses. Imagine the freedom of driving at any time of the day without struggling with night vision disturbances or glare. These lifestyle enhancements are the real-life benefits of LAL surgery, and patients often report a dramatic improvement in their quality of life.
However, it’s important to remember that each eye and each person’s visual needs are unique. Dr. Chu understands this, and using his expertise in ophthalmology and refractive surgery, he works diligently to ensure your lens is adjusted to your individual needs. This might involve accommodating for computer vision, optimizing for certain sports or activities, or even adjusting for optimal driving vision. At Chu Vision, the patient’s lifestyle and visual needs are the central focus.
Addressing Potential Concerns
In any medical procedure, concerns are inevitable. We understand the importance of addressing these worries to ensure patients are comfortable and informed. Patients may experience increased sensitivity to sunlight after their LAL surgery until their final adjustment process is complete. This photosensitivity is due to the unique silicone material of the LAL, which reacts to ultraviolet light. Therefore, patients are advised to wear UV protective glasses and sunglasses outdoors until the adjustment process is locked in on their final adjustment visit.
We also have patients ask us if the LAL will affect their pupil size, increase their eye pressure, or change their contrast sensitivity. However, Dr. Chu and his team at Chu Vision ensure that these are addressed during the eye examination and post-operative check-ups, putting patients at ease.
Comparison with Other Procedures
Comparing LAL to other refractive procedures like LASIK surgery, photorefractive keratectomy (PRK), and EVO ICL, each procedure has its unique advantages. While LASIK and PRK reshape the cornea to correct vision, they may not be suitable for patients with severe refractive errors or thin corneas. In contrast, LAL surgery can correct a wider range of refractive errors. For older patients, LAL is also a suitable lens for many cataract patients. The LAL replaces the natural lens while ICL sits in front of it.
LAL’s significant advantage is the ability to adjust the lens power after surgery, thereby improving the accuracy and precision of vision correction. With his surgical experience and dedication to using the most advanced technologies, Dr. Chu is well-positioned to help patients understand which procedure is best suited for them, further solidifying Chu Vision’s commitment to personalized, patient-centric care.
Insurance and Financing Options
At Chu Vision, we understand the financial considerations of vision correction procedures. While insurance coverage can vary widely, we are committed to providing the necessary information and assistance. Our team can help you understand your insurance coverage, and we provide convenient financing options.
In conclusion, Light Adjustable Lens surgery offers a revolutionary approach to vision correction. Its unique ability to tailor results post-operatively sets it apart from other vision correction procedures. As a physician, board-certified ophthalmologist and refractive/laser surgeon, Dr. Chu’s extensive experience, combined with his dedicated team at Chu Vision, ensures that each patient receives top-tier, personalized care from the initial consultation through the final post-operative check-up. Schedule a consultation with Chu Vision today and start your journey towards a life of clearer vision.
Find your true north with New Vision.
More FAQs about LAL in Minneapolis
What is a Light Adjustable Lens?
A Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) is an intraocular lens implant that can be adjusted post-surgery using a specific wavelength and intensity of ultraviolet light. It is developed and manufactured by RxSight.
What is the material of the Light Adjustable Lens?
The LAL is made of silicone and has a diameter of 6mm with an optical zone of 5.5mm.
What are the indications for the use of a Light Adjustable Lens?
LAL artificial lens implants are used in cataract surgery, and can also be used in custom lens replacements for over-40 vision (presbyopia), near-sighted vision (myopia), and far-sighted vision (hyperopia) correction.
How is the Light Adjustable Lens inserted during surgery?
The LAL is inserted by an ophthalmologist using an injector system. Dr. Chu first creates a small incision in the cornea. The LAL is then loaded into the injector system, which folds the lens. This folding allows the lens to be inserted through the small incision. Once inside the eye, the lens unfolds, and Dr. Chu positions it in the correct location.
The injector system is carefully designed to protect the lens during this process, ensuring that it’s not damaged or contaminated. It plays a crucial role in making the procedure minimally invasive, which typically results in quicker recovery times for patients.
What is the adjustment process for a Light Adjustable Lens?
The adjustment process for a Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) begins about four weeks after the initial implantation of the lens. During these sessions, Dr. Chu at Chu Vision uses a device specifically designed to emit controlled UV light onto the implanted lens. This UV light exposure causes the silicone molecules within the lens to rearrange, altering its shape and thus changing the refractive power of the lens.
These adjustment sessions are tailored to your specific needs. The procedure is painless, and patients only need to sit in front of the light delivery device for about a minute while the adjustment takes place.
Following each adjustment, the patient will typically notice an improvement in visual acuity. The full results become apparent after the final adjustment session, which is followed by a ‘lock-in’ procedure. During this lock-in procedure, the entire lens is exposed to a different wavelength of UV light to solidify the changes and prevent further modifications. This step ensures the long-term stability of the lens’ refractive power.
What is the range of dioptre adjustment for a Light Adjustable Lens?
The LAL allows for a broad dioptre range adjustment from -10 to +15, as well as cylinder adjustment from -2 to +2.
Is the Light Adjustable Lens approved by the FDA?
Yes, the LAL received a full clinical trial, and the Food and Drug Administration approved the lenses in 2020.
How successful is the Light Adjustable Lens procedure?
The success rate of LAL implantation is reported at 92% with a patient satisfaction rate of 85%.
Is the procedure of Light Adjustable Lens reversible?
No, the procedure of LAL implantation is not reversible.
How much does a Light Adjustable Lens cost in Minneapolis?
The cost of LAL is typically around $6000 per eye. Insurance coverage varies depending on the policy.
What is the long-term effect of the Light Adjustable Lens?
Studies on the long-term effects of LAL are still ongoing.
What countries have approved the Light Adjustable Lens for use?
The LAL has been approved for use in the USA, EU, Canada, and Australia.
What conditions may not be suitable for a Light Adjustable Lens?
Contraindications include people who already have UV sensitivity. Other medical conditions of the eye may be contraindicated but this will be discussed upon thorough examination of your eyes.
What is the follow-up schedule after having a Light Adjustable Lens implanted?
Follow-up visits are typically scheduled for 1 day, 1 week, and 1-month post-surgery. The adjustments are scheduled every week for about 3-5 weeks. Then post-adjustments you’ll have another visit a month later. The follow-up tests include visual acuity, refraction, and intraocular pressure checks.
Does the Light Adjustable Lens have UV protection?
Yes, the Light Adjustable Lens has UV protection.
How long does an average adjustment session last?
An average adjustment appointment lasts approximately 90 minutes. However, the adjustment itself only takes about a minute per eye.
What are the potential future applications of the Light Adjustable Lens?
Potential future applications include the treatment of astigmatism and high hyperopia.
Is professional training required to implant the Light Adjustable Lens?
Yes, in addition to all the board credentialing Dr. Chu has in ophthalmology and refractive surgery, additional professional training is required and provided by RxSight®, the manufacturer and patent holder of LAL.
Can the Light Adjustable Lens be used in pediatric and elderly populations?
The LAL is not recommended for use in the pediatric population, but it can be used in the elderly population.
Who makes the Light Adjustable Lens?
RxSight® is an ophthalmic medical technology corporation headquartered in Aliso Viejo, California that has commercialized the world’s first and only adjustable intraocular lens (IOL) that is customized after refractive lens exchange or cataract surgery.
Schedule Your Life-Changing Consultation
Light Adjustable Lenses offer an innovative and highly personalized approach to vision correction. Through the advanced technology and professional care provided by Dr. Ralph Chu and his team at Chu Vision in Minnesota, individuals grappling with various refractive errors can reclaim clear and precise vision. Life after LAL implantation is promising, giving patients the freedom to partake in activities, likely without the need for glasses or contacts.
If you’ve been considering cataract surgery, we encourage you to consider the potential benefits of Light Adjustable Lenses. Contact us today at Chu Vision to schedule a comprehensive eye examination and consultation. This is your chance to learn more about LAL, discuss any questions or concerns, and explore the possibilities of achieving optimal visual acuity. Your journey to better vision starts with a single, informed decision, and our team is here to guide you every step of the way.
