Enjoy Life Without Depending on Reading Glasses
The KAMRA Inlay may be a great option for individuals who are interested in correcting their reading vision.
When we are in our 20s and 30s, the natural lens in our eye is flexible and works in a similar manner to a camera. Much like a camera, the lens is able to change shape to focus on objects at distance and then zoom in to focus on objects up close. As we age, usually around the age of 40, the lens in our eye has become less flexible and loses the ability to zoom in on up-close objects. This condition is called Presbyopia and it affects everyone.
Dealing with Presbyopia can be frustrating. Previously the only options available to patients were glasses, multifocal/monovision contacts or even removing their glasses altogether in order to see clearly up-close. Fortunately today we have the advanced KAMRA Inlay technology offering patients a long term solution to the effects of presbyopia. The Inlay offers a natural range of vision distance and near without depending upon reading glasses.
As a leader in the field of vision correction, Dr. Balin was the first ophthalmologist in western, Massachusetts to perform the KAMRA Inlay procedure. The procedure is performed at our state-of-the-art surgical suite in Northampton, MA. As with all procedures it is important to be properly evaluated by an experienced surgeon. At our vision correction exams, Dr. Balin will perform extensive testing and meet with you personally to discuss your options for vision correction. If you are interested in learning more about the KAMRA Inlay or to find out if you are a candidate, please take our self-test or call our office at 413-584-6666
Frequently Asked Questions Section
What is the KAMRA Inlay?
The KAMRA Inlay is an advanced technology that helps restore near vision in individuals who are over 40 and experiencing presbyopia. The KAMRA Inlay offers long term performance in that it will continue to work as the individual ages and presbyopia worsens.
What is Presbyopia?
Usually, around the age of 40, the natural lens in our eye begins to lose flexibility and we lose the ability to focus clearly on objects up-close. We experience presbyopia as blurred up-close vision. The condition called Presbyopia is part of the natural aging process of the eye and it does affect everyone.
How does the KAMRA Inlay treat Presbyopia?
The KAMRA Inlay is placed in the cornea of the patient’s non-dominant eye. The KAMRA Inlay is a mini ring with a pinhole opening in the center. The pinhole only allows focused light to enter your eye. The KAMRA Inlay is only placed in one eye so that the patient will be able to focus up-close but still maintain good distance vision with both eyes. Working together your eyes will be able to focus at distance and then to zoom in up-close. Unlike monovision which is treating one eye for distance and one eye for near, the KAMRA Inlay patient will maintain good distance vision in both eyes. Also unlike monovision, the KAMRA Inlay is meant to be a long term solution to presbyopia in that it will continue to be effective as the patient ages and their presbyopia progresses.
Who is a good candidate?
The KAMRA Inlay is intended for people who want to decrease their dependence on reading glasses. Individuals will need a complete exam with Dr. Balin to determine if they are a good candidate for the procedure. If you would like to schedule an exam, please contact the office at 413-584-6666.
How is the procedure performed?
It takes about 30 minutes to perform the procedure, but, you will need to be at our facility for 1-2 hours that day. Numbing drops will be placed in your eye so that you will not feel any discomfort. Dr. Balin will use the femtosecond laser to create a small pocket in the cornea. The KAMRA Inlay will be placed in the pocket and centered over the pupil.
Where is the procedure performed?
The KAMRA Inlay procedure is performed by Dr. Balin at the Balin Eye & Laser Center in Northampton, MA.
What can I expect after the procedure?
Your eyes may feel irritated, light-sensitive and watery following the procedure. You can resume most normal activities within 24-48. You will need to use drops and follow some restrictions as you heal. Some patients will notice an immediate improvement in near vision while others may experience a more gradual improvement over time.
Can you feel or see the inlay in the eye?
The inlay is placed in the cornea of the eye so you cannot feel it and for most people, you cannot see it.
What are the risks?
As with any medical procedure, there are risks? During a consultation for the KAMRA Inlay, Dr. Balin will evaluate the patient’s candidacy for the procedure and educate the patient on the risks. Patients can also read more about risks at Kamra.com.
What are the benefits of the KAMRA Inlay?
The KAMRA Inlay provides a natural range of vision from near to far. It allows the patient to once again read things up-close like a phone text, recipe, newspaper or computer screen without reaching for a pair of reading glasses. Unlike monovision, the Inlay restores near vision with minimal effect on distance vision. The KAMRA Inlay is also designed to be a long term solution to presbyopia.
Can the KAMRA Inlay be removed if I don’t like it?
Yes. The KAMRA Inlay can be removed.
What is the KAMRA Inlay made of?
The KAMRA Inlay is made from a material that is used in many medical implants.
What is the cost and does insurance cover the cost of the KAMRA Inlay?
The cost of the procedure depends upon your current vision. Some patients will need distance as well as near vision correction. The distance vision correction can usually be performed at the same time the KAMRA Inlay is being implanted. Dr. Balin will be able to determine your best treatment options for optimal vision at your exam. Insurance does not cover the cost of the KAMRA Inlay. We do provide our patients with financing options. Learn more about financing options.
