INTACS

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 glasses are discovering that INTACS are a flexible way to achieve crisp, maintenance-free vision. INTACS are revolutionary in their approach, gently reshaping the curvature of the cornea.

Imagine a tent with a curved top, a shape similar to the curve of your cornea. If the sides of the tent are pushed out, the top flattens slightly. Placing INTACS in the periphery of the cornea flattens the center just enough to allow light rays entering your eye to focus properly.

Who qualifies for INTACS?

You qualify if:

• Your prescription for 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. An eye doctor 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.

• A single, small opening is made in the cornea.
• 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.
• The INTACS inserts are placed. After the second INTACS insert is placed, the small opening in the cornea is closed.