Unilateral pseudophakia and extended-wear aphakic contact lenses. A comparative study in a single patient population.

Twenty-nine patients who were pseudophakic in one eye and wearing a Permalens in the other eye were evaluated. Pseudophakic correction provided the patient with good, stable visual acuity, minimal risks, and an excellent long-term prognosis. Permalens aphakic correction also provided the patient with good, but fluctuating visual acuity. Risks such as deposit formation, tight lens syndrome, and corneal infections were not infrequently associated with the Permalens, and Permalens patients were also faced with the recurring cost of lens replacement. While both modalities of aphakic visual rehabilitation are acceptable, pseudophakia appears to provide the patient with better visual acuity, fewer risks, and lower financial costs in the long run.