Problems With Crystalens

Check with your insurance carrier to find out if Crystalens is covered.

The Crystalens replaces ocular lenses damaged by conditions such as cataracts and refractive lens disease. It is an alternative to the traditional Intraocular Lens (IOL) that does not allow for different ranges of vision. The Crystalens is referred to as an "accommodating IOL" in that it is designed to accommodate many ranges of vision, including focusing on objects up-close and far away. This accommodation leads to claims that Crystalens functions like the natural lens of the eye. However, there are several potential problems associated with Crystalens to consider before opting for it.

Vision Range

The Crystalens does not usually improve reading range vision. Often after having the procedure, patients still need reading glasses. It also does not fully restore your vision's accommodation, and in some patients, it is worse than before the surgery. In theory, an accommodating IOL is supposed to give you the ability to focus on close-up, mid-range and far-away objects, whereas an unaccommodating IOL does not. Though the Crystalens generally performs better than unaccommodating IOLs, patients should not expect a return to normal eye function. In some instances, patients also report seeing halos around lighted objects such as headlights after getting Crystalens.

Adaptation

Adaptation refers to the degree to which the eye adjusts to the new lens, providing for its maximum functioning after healing. Once your eye adapts to the new lens, you then know what eye functions you will or will not be left with. At this point, you will know if your vision is limited enough to warrant reading glasses permanently or if you can expect that your night vision will always be impaired by halos. Unfortunately, the adaptation time of the Crystalens is lengthy; it takes up to a full year before you will know how well your eyes have adapted to the implant.

Cost

The Crystalens procedure is costly, requiring a highly experienced surgeon. The average cost of the Crystalens procedure is between $3,500 and $5,500 per eye. Many insurance plans cover only part of its cost. Some plans may cover only the cost of the surgical procedure and not the Crystalens itself. Other plans may cover nothing at all. Check with your insurance plan to find out what the benefit is before having the procedure.

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