I Can See Clearly Now

Created on 15th May 2009

"It sounds like something out of a sci-fi film": implantable contact lenses proved to be the answer when Paul Swaby found out he wasn't suitable for laser surgery

What prompted you to have the treatment?

The process started about three years ago. I was going on honeymoon to Australia and I wanted to go deep-sea diving. I made an appointment at a laser clinic but I wasn't suitable for laser treatment.

I have a very strong prescription but my corneas are too thin to support the prescription I needed as they would have to remove too much material. I left it but when I went for a normal check up at my opticians and mentioned that I'd wanted to have it done they gave me a leaflet for a place that promised to do more than other clinics.

Who carried out the procedure and what was their opinion at the consultation?

I went to the appointment at the Advanced Vision Care and they suggested lens implants as an alternative. I wasn't keen initially but they gave me lots of information on the procedure to read and I decided to take it further.

How was the experience?

The procedure took place under local anaesthetic and they gave me a relaxant tablet as I was very tense. It wasn't as bad as I thought it would be as you don't actually feel anything except a bit of manipulating as they put in the implant.

How long did it take?

They do one eye first then two weeks later they do the second eye. Each procedure took about thirty minutes.

Did you need to take any medication after it was done?

Immediately after the procedure you take a blood pressure tablet and you are given three sets of drops to take for the first week to prevent infection. They give you a shield to wear over your eye during the night for the first week to protect it from being knocked as you sleep.

Are you happy with the treatment?

The initial recovery period was very quick - I could see very clearly out of the eye straightaway. They have transformed my life and I wish I had done it years ago. I've got better vision now than when I was wearing my prescription glasses or contact lenses.
CS&AM