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  • karlwhittaker@devoneyesurgeon.co.uk
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What is PRELEX?

PRELEX is an acronym for ‘Presbyopic Lens Exchange’.  It is the name given to the surgical procedure to replace the natural lens of the eye, which remains clear but has lost its ability to ‘accommodate’ or change shape. This usually occurs in your 40’s, causing a requirement for reading glasses.
The lens is replaced with a multi-focal intraocular implant, which works in a similar way to varifocal glasses.

The operation may also be suitable for patients who have a cataract, or younger patients with large refractive errors who do not want glasses for reading or distance and who are not suitable for laser vision correction.

The surgical technique employed, the pre-operative assessment, post-operative course and potential risks are essentially the same as those used in cataract surgery.

The true benefit of PRELEX is not evident until both eyes have been done, typically within 2-3 weeks of each other, and the brain has had time to adjust to its new visual system.

An additional advantage of PRELEX surgery is that you will never need cataract surgery in the future.

PRELEX Links

  • What is PRELEX?
  • Outcomes of PRELEX Surgery
  • Am I a Suitable Candidate?

About Mr. Karl Whittaker

I graduated from Birmingham University in 1992, and have been an Eye Specialist for almost 20 years.

Following my Ophthalmology Specialist Training, I completed two Fellowships (advanced training) in glaucoma, working with the world-renowned Professor Anthony Molteno in New Zealand and Professor Peter Shah in Birmingham. Thereafter, I undertook a Fellowship in oculoplastic/lacrimal surgery, again in Birmingham. As a result, I am dual-qualified, which allows me to perform a wide range of ophthalmic procedures.

I have been a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at the North Devon Healthcare NHS Trust since 2003. In this role, I perform high volume cataract surgery and am the Clinical Lead for the Glaucoma and Oculoplastic/Lacrimal Surgery services.

Practice Location

  • Ophthalmology Department
  • Level 1
  • North Devon District Hospital
  • Barnstaple
  • EX31 4JB

Tel: 07503751349 | 01271 349128
Email: karlwhittaker@devoneyesurgeon.co.uk

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