ReZoom After Radial Keratotomy

[rdr22]

I had radial keratotomy back in the early 90's (1990s not 1890s!) and am wondering if when I develop cataracts, will I be able to take advantage of a lens like ReZoom or ReStor? Will the 8 incisions I had in each eye keep me from being able to effectively wear one of this type of lens? And, is astigmatism a deal-breaker for ReZoom?

Thanks.

[John C Hagan III, MD, FACS, FAAO]

In my personal view the ReZoom is antiquated technology. During the next 6 months reports of problems with this IOL will start to filter into the ophthalmology medical journals. In the meantime my advise to anyone is avoid it like the plague.

Use the search feature and read about the multiple problems with multifocal IOLs. I would adise one of my patients in a similiar situation to NOT get a mutifocal IOL but use a aspheric monofocal IOL.

See an experienced refractive surgeon, sometimes the irregular astigmatism caused by RK can be helped by lasik surgery.

JCH MD

[JodieJ]

Hopefully, by the time you need cataract surgery there will be better implants on the market than ReZoom and ReStor.  Problems associated with multifocals include glare, halos, waxy vision, ghosting and long adaptation times.  ReZoom is reported to be especially problem-prone.  Use the search feature (upper right corner of your monitor) to find out more.  Uncorrected astigmatism will impair your vision with any IOL.

Technology improves continuously.  The current trend seems to be toward accommodating IOLs (the Crystalens is an example) rather than multifocals.  The light-sharing feature intrinsic to a multifocal lens design creates problems which make vision unsatisfactory for many people.  I'm not an eye care professional, but I don't see why this type of lens would be prohibited for you.  Your IOL power predictions might be less accurate because of your previous RK, and your astigmatism would have to be addressed.