After doing some of research on various IOLs I had a Crystalens implanted in my nondominant eye. The implantation was difficult and my eye was open for approximately 80 minutes. In a follow up three days post op. I was told that my pupil had some irregularity, but that it would probably resolve on its own. I was also told that there was some clouding of the posterior capsule which would probably require a YAG proceedure. I am now 6 days post op pretty blurry, but I seem to be moving in the right direction visually.
What I have become aware of , is that the proceedure is significantly more difficult than is monofocal implantation and does carry more risk. (There is a .5% retnal detachment rate associated with the YAG proceedure.) If I do eventually receive all the benefits of successsful Crstalens implantation I would probably use one in my second eye despite these risks and the problems to date.
My question is however, given that, "The long run safety and effacacy of the Crystalens is unknown." what is the best current guess of truly knowledgeable people as to whether 10 or 20 years from now my Crystalens will be: 1 properly located. 2. Clear and undeteriorated. 3. Have intact, functional hinges. (Fatigue data for only 1 million cycles seems minimal) 4. Still able to accomadate despite the fibrosing of the capsule.
I realize any answer would be somewhat speculative, but I am sure someone knows enough about at least some of these issues to help in my decision making. And yes, I will be discussing all these questions with my Dr. before making a decision about my second eye. He seems very open to discussion of any issue. Thank you in advance for your inputs.
Dr. Elek ( Ph.D.)