Raindrop® Near Vision Inlay
First patient with Dr Kerrie Meades
Second patient with Dr Kerrie Meades
Designed to improve the near vision that has been lost by the eye’s natural aging process—presbyopia.Presbyopia is the most common eye condition in Australia, and affects many people over the age of 45. The symptoms include difficulty seeing near objects—such as newspapers and websites—while your long distance vision remains fine.
The Raindrop® Near Vision Inlay is a microscopic hydrogel inlay that is designed to correct presbyopia.
Raindrop® is the first and only corneal inlay that creates a prolate-shaped cornea, and is easily placed under a femtosecond laser flap.
It is made of a proprietary hydrogel material comprised of nearly 80% water, ensuring effective nutrient diffusion and transfer through the cornea. According to the company, the optical characteristics are almost identical to the human cornea.
The Procedure
Dr Kerrie Meades was the first surgeon to use the Raindrop® Near Vision Inlay commercially in Australia in May 2014, and has been following the patients who have been very happy with their results (pictured right).
The Raindrop® Near Vision corneal inlay is placed within the cornea under a LASIK-style flap. When in position, the inlay changes the curvature of the cornea so the front of the eye acts much like a multifocal contact lens.
FAQ
What is Raindrop®?
It is a tiny clear hydrogel disc that is implanted into the cornea – the front surface of the eye and so reshapes the eye to provide reading vision without affecting the colour/function of the cornea.
How does it work?
It works by re-shaping the surface of the eye to improve reading vision.
How long does it take?
It adds only a few extra minutes to a routine LASIK procedure.
Am I suitable?
You will require an assessment with the Eye Specialist or a Clinical Optometrist to find out if you are suitable or not. They will perform a number of vision and eye health checks to ensure your suitability.
Do I need to have perfect distance vision for this treatment?
No, as we can use the laser to make your distance vision perfect before implanting the tiny raindrop inlay to then improve reading vision.
When can I get back to work?
The next day should be ok and only relaxing activities on the day of treatment.
Do I need a general anaesthetic?
No, only local eye drops are required – it is a completely walk in and walk out procedure.
How long have you been performing this procedure?
The first procedure was performed by Dr Meades 14th May 2014, however we have been performing laser vision correction procedures for 19 years and treatment for presbyopia for more than five years.
