Overview
Understanding aphakia, the absence of a natural eye lens is crucial as it may occur in one or both eyes due to various reasons. These include congenital causes, previous cataract surgery, or a traumatic eye injury. The lens, which is oval-like in structure, rests behind the iris, the colourised region of the eye, and the pupil.
Common Signs of Aphakia
- Hazy vision
- Trouble seeing things in the distance and close by
- Faded colours
- A jiggly iris (iridodonesis)
- Issues with adjusting vision when trying to see things far away and close by
How Aphakia Occurs from Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is a widely performed surgery to remove the foggy lens from the eye. The clouded, damaged lens is removed and replaced with a new, synthetic lens. Intraocular lenses are commonly used in cataract surgery. However, in some cases, these lenses may not be implanted in babies. The use of intraocular lenses in babies remains a highly controversial topic.
Diagnosing Aphakia
In order to detect congenital abnormalities linked to the absence of lenses in babies, an ultrasound can help pick up abnormalities. For aphakia in older children and adults, the ophthalmologist utilises a light and slit lamp during a comprehensive eye examination to check for the disorder and assess its severity.
Treating Aphakia
Surgery is widely employed to treat aphakia, which involves using an intraocular lens (IOL) to substitute for the missing, detached or damaged lens. Special contact lenses are used instead of intraocular implants for babies too young. Babies and children diagnosed with aphakia require treatment as early as possible to prevent complications.
Spectacles are also used, but in cases where both eyes are affected. Your ophthalmologist can help you choose a suitable treatment plan based on your needs and preferences. Rest assured, there are treatment options available for aphakia.
Aphakia
