How Do Light Adjustable Lenses Work?

Posted by: Dakota Eye Institute in Blog-post on May 14, 2025

A Guide to the Most Advanced Artificial Lens Technology for Cataract Patients

If you’re exploring cataract surgery in Bismarck or anywhere in North Dakota, you’ve likely come across the term Light Adjustable Lens (LAL), the newest innovation in cataract IOL lenses. At Dakota Eye Institute, we’re proud to offer this cutting-edge solution to patients who want more control and precision in their visual outcomes after cataract surgery.

In this post, we’ll explain how Light Adjustable Lenses (LALs) work, their pros and cons, and whether they might be right for you.

What Is a Light Adjustable Lens?

A Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) is an advanced type of intraocular lens (IOL) used during cataract surgery. Unlike traditional cataract lenses, the RxSight Light Adjustable Lens allows your eye doctor to fine-tune your vision after surgery using special UV light treatments.

✓ Offers the ability to adjust your prescription after the lens is implanted
✓ Designed for patients who want customized visual results
✓ Ideal for patients with a history of LASIK, PRK, or variable prescriptions

How Do Light-Adjustable Lenses Work?

1. Cataract surgery is performed as usual, and the Light Adjustable Lens is implanted.
2. After your eyes have healed (typically 2–3 weeks), you’ll return to the office for UV light treatments using a specialized Light Delivery Device (LDD).
3. Each treatment modifies the lens shape microscopically to optimize your vision — a process known as light-adjustable customization.
4. Once the desired visual outcome is achieved, the lens is “locked in” with a final light treatment.

This ability to fine-tune vision after cataract surgery makes LALs a top choice for patients seeking greater precision.

Benefits of Light Adjustable Lenses

• Choosing an adjustable lens for cataracts comes with many advantages:
• Customized vision correction after surgery
• Higher satisfaction for patients with complex prescriptions
• Improved outcomes for LASIK or PRK patients
• Reduces the need for glasses after surgery in many cases

Many Light Adjustable Lens patient reviews highlight clearer, more tailored vision, especially compared to traditional IOLs.

Are There Downsides to Light Adjustable Lenses?

Like any medical technology, there are pros and cons of Light Adjustable Lenses:

Pros:

• Post-surgery customization
• Excellent visual outcomes
• FDA-approved and widely used in advanced practices

Cons:

• Slightly longer post-op care window
• Must wear UV-protective glasses until all light treatments are complete
• Not ideal for everyone (e.g., those unable to attend follow-up visits)

For many patients, the light adjustable lens success rate outweighs the minor inconveniences during recovery.

How Much Does a Light Adjustable Lens Cost?

The cost of a Light Adjustable Lens is higher than standard IOLs due to its advanced technology and customization options. At Dakota Eye Institute, we provide:

• Transparent pricing on adjustable lens cost
• Information on cataract surgery cost and what’s covered by insurance
• Flexible financing options and HSA/FSA eligibility

To learn more, ask us about Light Adjustable Lens cost during your consultation.

Do Light Adjustable Lenses Require Special Care?

Yes. Following surgery, patients must:

• Wear special UV-blocking glasses at all times until the lens is locked
• Avoid UV exposure (sunlight, tanning beds)
• Attend 2–4 post-op light treatment appointments
• Avoid adjusting prescriptions elsewhere before treatment completion

These steps ensure you get the best results possible from your LAL lens.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Light Adjustable Lenses?

• Patients who want the best lens for cataract surgery
• Patients with prior refractive surgery (e.g., LASIK, PRK)
• Those who value vision clarity and customization
• Patients who can attend follow-up visits in Bismarck

If you’re searching for cataract surgery near me, our team of cataract surgeons in Bismarck, ND can help determine if RxSight Light Adjustable Lenses are right for you.

Why Choose Dakota Eye Institute for Cataract Surgery?

At Dakota Eye Institute, we offer:

• Experienced cataract surgeons in Bismarck, North Dakota
• Expertise in premium IOLs, including LAL lenses
• State-of-the-art surgical facilities
• Providing trusted care to patients from Bismarck, Minot, Jamestown, Williston, Dickinson, and throughout North Dakota and nearby states.

You’ll be treated by a board-certified cataract doctor in Bismarck who’s committed to delivering advanced care and fine-tuning your vision after cataract surgery.

Schedule a Consultation

Ready to explore Light Adjustable Lenses in Bismarck? Call Dakota Eye Institute today or book your consultation online. Discover whether the LAL cataract surgery option is right for your vision and lifestyle.