Intacs is a state-of-the-art procedure for keratoconus that can significantly reduce your dependence on glasses or contacts, improve your vision and even stop or slow the progression of keratoconus.
The effectiveness of Intacs rings can also be enhanced with corneal cross-linking, designed to further stabilize and strengthen the cornea.
What your surgeon will do
Using the Intralase™ iFS femtosecond laser, circular tunnels are created at 70% depth of the cornea. Plastic corneal ring segments are then placed into the cornea to regularize the corneal surface of your eye. A temporary suture is also placed.
Intacs FAQs
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Why opt for Intacs? |
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Before Intacs, patients with progressive keratoconus inevitably would have to undergo corneal transplant. Now, thanks to Intacs, most people can enjoy significant improvement in vision and stabilization of their keratoconus, without resorting to corneal transplant. |
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How long does it take? |
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The procedure usually takes about 45 minutes for both eyes. |
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Does it hurt? |
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No. The Intacts procedure is painless and you should experience little to no discomfort following surgery. |
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How long do I have to stay at VLEC after surgery? |
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Following surgery, you will be taken to the recovery area for about 30 minutes or until are feeling well and comfortable. Then you may leave. |
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Do I need to be accompanied? |
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Yes, on the day of surgery, as well as for your 24 hour visit and for your 2 week appointment, if you are not seeing well. We kindly ask that your companion wait for you in the comfortable downstairs reception area. |
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Do I need follow-up exams? |
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Yes, you should return to VLEC 24 hours following surgery, as well as at 2 weeks, and at 6 weeks to take your suture out, and then at 3 months, 6 months and 1 year. |
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What is my recovery time? |
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Recovery time varies form person to person, but most people notice immediate improvement. Since your eyes need time to stabilize and heal, your final outcome may not be fully known until at least 6 months after surgery. You may also benefit from corneal cross-linking following your first intervention to further strengthen the cornea and improve outcomes. Some patients may still require glasses or contacts, but not to the same degree as before their operation. |
