Will Vision Performs the First Raindrop Inlay Procedure in the Pacific Northwest to reverse the need to Reading Glasses
Vancouver, WA (December 15, 2016) – Brian R. Will, MD performed the first Raindrop inlay procedures in the Pacific Northwest on December 15, 2016. The Raindrop inlay is the world’s first inlay capable of changing the shape of the cornea (the clear, front part of the eye) to improve near vision. It is designed to help reduce or eliminate the need for reading glasses. The outpatient procedures only took about 10 minutes and the patients returned to their daily activities the next day.
Dr. Will and his team were very excited about the rapid return of near vision seen with the Raindrop inlay used for reversing presbyopia. All patients were able to see print the size of that found on the side of a pill bottle even on the first postoperative day.
We are pleased to be the first to provide this innovative technology to the Pacific Northwest.
Who should consider the Raindrop Near Vision Inlay?
Age related loss of near vision or presbyopia is the condition that leaves many of us reaching for reading glasses in our 40’s and early 50’s. Anybody who needs reading glasses for daily tasks such as using mobile phones, reading a menu, fine print or doing close-up work may be a candidate.
How effective is the Raindrop Near Vision Inlay procedure?
Most people that have had the Raindrop implanted, see an improvement in their near vision by one week and it continues to improve for several weeks. Patients need to use eye drops for several months for comfort and healing.
What is the inlay, exactly?
It is a tiny disc, about the size of a pinhead. It is comprised of approximately 80 percent water and is placed just beneath the surface of the eye. It works by gently changing the central curvature of the cornea, clear front part of the eye.
How long does it take?
The procedure is complete in 10 minutes, usually.
Is it painful?
Numbing drops are given for the procedure, but most patients do not experience any pain.
Does it have to be done with Lasik?
No, it is designed to be performed without Lasik. The procedure does require the use of an ophthalmic laser to create a Lasik-like flap just beneath the surface of the eye.
What is the Raindrop Near Vision Inlay made of?
It is a soft, biocompatible material, similar to a soft contact lens, which has similar properties and water content as the cornea.
Does it interfere with far vision?
One Raindrop Near Vision Inlay is placed in the cornea of the non-dominant eye. Both eyes work together to create one image. The near vision is improved in the Raindrop eye, while the distance is slightly affected. With both eyes working together there is not a compromise for distance vision and patients still have a significant improvement in near vision.
Is it safe for the eye?
Extensive trials and usage show that it is safe. This was confirmed by the US FDA. Raindrop is bioengineered to facilitate the transport of nutrients and fluid to the eye.
Will people know I am wearing one?
No. It is transparent, so no one will realize there is a Raindrop in your eye.
How does it work in low light?
Very well. Since Raindrop is transparent 99.7% of light passes through the inlay reaches the back of the eye where the image is processed. Raindrop offers patients good performance in all lighting conditions.
Can the inlay ever be removed?
Yes, the Raindrop can be removed and most patients go back to their vision before Raindrop.