The KAMRA inlay procedure is not very well-known. When people think of vision correction surgery, the first thing that comes to mind is LASIK. LASIK is a popular and widely-performed laser eye surgery used to correct refractive errors like astigmatism, hyperopia, and myopia. But it does not address vision issues caused by presbyopia, a condition which affects people as they grow older and is aptly nicknamed “vision over 40”.
What is the difference between presbyopia and other refractive errors?
What is the difference between these conditions? Refractive errors like myopia and astigmatism are usually due to genetic factors and can be present from childhood or developed over time. These refractive errors are due to irregularly shaped corneas that do not allow light rays to be focused correctly. LASIK surgery uses a laser to reshape the corneas in accordance with a person’s prescription.
Presbyopia, on the other hand, cannot be addressed by LASIK. It’s due to a loss of elasticity in the eye that comes about as a result of aging and affects near vision. There is no way to prevent presbyopia, and it can develop even in individuals who have never experienced vision problems. Individuals with presbyopia can use regular reading glasses to address presbyopia, but those who are looking for a more long-term solution may want to consider KAMRA inlays.
Am I a suitable candidate for KAMRA Inlays?
You may be a suitable candidate for KAMRA inlays if:
You participate in a lot of activities that require near vision.
People who spend a lot of time reading documents, typing at computers, or doing anything that requires them to regularly reach for their reading glasses may want to consider KAMRA inlays to lessen their dependence on glasses.
You are willing to undergo the recovery process.
Unlike LASIK, the results of KAMRA are not instant. It can take a while for your eyes to adjust to the changes posed by KAMRA inlays. It will take both time and follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist, so those considering KAMRA should be committed to the process before undergoing it.
You are between the ages of 40 and 60.
KAMRA inlays are designed for people at 40, 50, and 60 years of age who are primarily affected by presbyopia.
The KAMRA inlay is a mini ring that is smaller and thinner than a contact lens. It is designed for long-term use and to preserve clear vision even as your presbyopia gets worse with age. This mini ring has a pinhole that helps the eye focus incoming light. It is only placed in one eye, which allows you to see up close, while preserving distance vision in the other eye.
While recovery does take some time, it is an outpatient procedure meaning that you can be back to work and out and about within a day.
The smartest way to determine whether you are an ideal candidate for KAMRA is to speak with an ophthalmologist. Our KAMRA specialists at Frantz are available to answer all of your questions about the procedure, eligibility, and recovery times. Come by for a free consultation or for a routine comprehensive eye exam to discuss your options. We have offices in Fort Myers, Cape Coral, Naples, Lehigh Acres, and Punta Gorda.
