Intacs in Chicago / Des Plaines, Illinois
Benefits of INTACS:
- FDA approved
- Maintenance-free correction
- Excellent visual results
- Flexibility - INTACS can be removed or replaced.
- Peace of mind - INTACS are placed in your cornea outside of the central optical zone, the part of the cornea that is most important for your vision.
What are INTACS?
INTACS are micro-thin prescription inserts designed to offer crisp, clear, maintenance-free vision when placed in the eye. They are made of a special clear, biocompatible plastic that has been safely used in contact lenses and cataract surgery for over 50 years. And, these innovative micro-thin inserts have been successfully used in other countries for several years.
How do INTACS work?
More and more wearers of contact lenses and eye-glases are discovering that INTACS are a flexible way to achieve crisp, clear, maintenance-free vision. INTACS are revolutionary in their approach, gently reshaping the curvature of the cornea.
Who qualifies for INTACS?
You do if:
- Your prescription of eyeglasses or contacts is between – 1.00 to 3.00 diopters, with no more than 1.00 diopter of astigmatism.
- You have healthy eyes free from disease or injuries
- You have had stable vision for one year
- You are at least 21 years of age.
What can I expect of the procedure?
The procedure for placement of INTACS is quick, simple and virtually painless. Dr. James Katz, a corneal and Laser Refractive Surgeon, trained in the procedure performs the surgery. Anesthetic drops are used to numb the eye, which is held open throughout the procedure to prevent blinking.
Step 1: A single, small opening is made in the cornea.
Step 2: The eye is prepared for placement of INTACS. Then two tiny semicircular tunnels are made in the cornea. The INTACS will be placed in these tunnels. The cornea has several layers in it like a pad of paper. Making a place for the INTACS is like separating two pages just enough to create a space.
Step 3: The INTACS inserts are placed. After the second INTACS insert is placed, the small opening in the cornea is closed.
What are the risks?
With any surgical procedure, there is some risk. Clinical studies in the U.S. showed that infection, which is a risk with any surgical procedure occurred 0.2% of the time with INTACS. Some patients experienced difficulty with night vision, glare, halos, blurry or double vision and fluctuating distance vision. If the results of the procedure are not satisfactory, you may want to have your INTACS removed or replaced. In U.S. clinical studies, in all cases where INTACS were removed, patients were able to be corrected to 20/20 vision or better. Be sure to discuss potential benefits and risks in detail with Dr. James Katz.