If you’re planning for cataract surgery and want the sharpest, most personalized vision possible, there’s a revolutionary option you should know about: the RxSight™ Light Adjustable Lens (LAL).
At Northwest Eye Surgeons, we’re proud to offer the most advanced cataract surgery technology available, and the Light Adjustable Lens is a standout choice for patients who want greater control over their vision outcomes. Here’s why more patients are asking about LAL and how it compares to traditional intraocular lenses (IOLs).
What Is the Light Adjustable Lens?
The RxSight Light Adjustable Lens is the first and only FDA-approved intraocular lens that can be adjusted after cataract surgery to fine-tune your vision.
Unlike traditional IOLs, which are fixed at the time of surgery, the Light Adjustable Lens gives your surgeon the ability to adjust your prescription after your eye has healed, using targeted UV light treatments.
This allows for precise, personalized vision correction based on how your eyes respond post-surgery and your visual preferences in real-world settings.
How Does It Work?
- Cataract Removal & LAL Implantation: During your cataract surgery at Northwest Eye Surgeons, your cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with the Light Adjustable Lens.
- Healing Period: After surgery, your eye heals normally over about 2-3 weeks.
- Light Treatments Begin: Using a specialized Light Delivery Device (LDD), your eye doctor applies controlled ultraviolet (UV) light to the lens to reshape it and adjust your prescription.
- Final Lock-In: Once you’re happy with your vision, a final light treatment “locks in” the lens settings, making the results permanent.
Benefits of the Light Adjustable Lens
Customized Vision After Surgery
Instead of choosing your vision correction goal before surgery, the LAL allows you to “test drive” your new vision before finalizing it. Want to prioritize distance vision in one eye and reading in the other? You can try it first.
Better Visual Outcomes
Studies show that patients who receive the Light Adjustable Lens are more likely to achieve 20/20 vision without glasses compared to those who receive standard monofocal IOLs.
Reduces Dependence on Glasses
Because the lens is fine-tuned postoperatively, you can reduce or eliminate your need for glasses for distance, and in some cases, for intermediate or near tasks as well.
Ideal for Patients with Complex Vision Histories
If you’ve had LASIK, RK, or other refractive procedures in the past, the LAL is a great option because it provides flexibility and greater accuracy than traditional lenses.
How Is the Light Adjustable Lens Different from Traditional IOLs?
| Feature | Traditional IOLs | Light Adjustable Lens (RxSight) |
| Vision personalization | Set during surgery | Adjustable after surgery |
| Post-surgery fine-tuning | Not possible | Yes, with UV light |
| Ideal for post-refractive surgery patients | Not always | Yes – highly precise |
| Risk of needing glasses | Higher | Lower |
| Vision outcomes | Excellent, but fixed | Excellent and adjustable |
What to Expect During the LAL Process
Patients who choose the LAL will need to:
- Wear special UV-blocking glasses until the final lock-in treatment is complete (usually 4–6 weeks).
- Visit the clinic multiple times after surgery for light treatments and monitoring.
Is the Light Adjustable Lens Right for You?
The Light Adjustable Lens is an excellent option for:
- Patients who want the most precise visual outcome.
- Those with a history of LASIK or other vision correction procedures.
- People who want to reduce their need for glasses after cataract surgery.
At Northwest Eye Surgeons, our experienced cataract surgeons will guide you through the options and help you decide if the LAL is the best fit for your lifestyle and vision goals.
Schedule a Cataract Consultation
Ready to explore your options for cataract surgery with vision correction? Contact us today at (800) 826-4631 to schedule a consultation with our experienced team. We’ll walk you through every step and help you achieve the best possible outcome for your eyes.
Related Articles:
- Cataracts: Causes, Symptoms, and Advanced Treatment Options
- What Types of Intraocular Lenses Are Available?
References:
FDA approves first implanted lens that can be adjusted after cataract surgery to improve vision without eyeglasses in some patients. U.S. Food and Drug Administration
https://www.fda.gov/news-events/press-announcements/fda-approves-first-implanted-lens-can-be-adjusted-after-cataract-surgery-improve-vision-without
Light adjustable lens from rxsight
RxSight https://rxsight.com/patients/
