Phakic intraocular lenses are used to treat nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. A lens is inserted through a very small incision at the base of the cornea and is placed behind the iris. The lenses are implanted without removal of the patient's natural lens. The lens can be surgically removed so changes can be made if necessary. Because there are some differences, a patient should select the lens to be implanted, and then find a doctor working with that lens. But no matter what lens is selected, all phakic intraocular lenses have proven particularly effective in treating severe nearsightedness and severe farsightedness - conditions that are not well treated using other refractive surgeries such as LASIK. Once implanted, the lenses cannot be felt in the eye, and there is no maintenance of the lens.

Recovery time: 1 to 7 days.