The Galaxy spiral lens is the world’s first AI-designed intraocular lens (IOL), representing a breakthrough in cataract surgery technology.

Although traditional multifocal lenses can provide glasses-free vision at all distances, their principle diffractive ring technology can cause bothersome visual disturbances like halos and glare around lights at night. The unique spiral optic of the Galaxy spiral lens was developed using AI to create a smooth and continuous range of vision, with significantly less halos and glare. In an international clinical evaluation, one-third of Galaxy spiral lens patients reported no halos at all and 74% reported no glare.

The Galaxy spiral lens was developed using artificial intelligence to find the best possible design – one that delivers a full range of vision with minimal unwanted visual disturbances like halos or glare.

By testing millions of design possibilities in a fraction of the time it would normally take, this innovative approach has allowed the unique Galaxy spiral lens to reach patients much sooner than would have been possible through traditional development methods.

You may be an ideal candidate if:

• Cataracts are affecting your quality of life
• You want to reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses for everyday activities
• You value high-quality vision, especially in low-light conditions
• You lead an active lifestyle (reading, driving, using digital devices, sports, hobbies)
• You have healthy eyes without significant corneal irregularities or advanced eye conditions

Your eye specialist will conduct a comprehensive eye examination to assess your suitability, including measurements of your eye’s shape, the health of your cornea and retina, and discussion of your visual goals and lifestyle needs.

Galaxy spiral lens patients experience significantly reduced dependence on glasses. Clinical data shows excellent outcomes across all distances – patients can read their phones, work on computers, and drive comfortably without glasses. Some people may occasionally prefer glasses for specific tasks like reading a newspaper.

One of the most common complaints about traditional multifocal lenses is bothersome halos and glare when driving at night or in low light conditions. The unique spiral design of the Galaxy spiral lens and zero light loss technology dramatically reduce these visual disturbances. Patients report comfortable night driving and better vision quality in low-light settings compared to other multifocal lenses.

Yes. The Galaxy spiral lens is manufactured in the UK by Rayner, a British company with over 75 years of expertise in lens innovation. The Galaxy spiral lens underwent rigorous clinical evaluation across 10 leading eye centres in 10 countries before its commercial release. Over 100,000 Galaxy spiral lenses have now been implanted worldwide.

Your vision starts improving immediately, but full recovery varies for each person. Most people resume daily activities within a few days. Full recovery can take a few weeks, and your vision will continue adjusting for a few months. Be patient – your brain and eyes need time to adapt to your new lens.

You’ll be prescribed eye drops to support healing — follow your clinic’s instructions carefully. AEON eye drops are specially formulated to aid recovery and can be used as needed after surgery.

A cataract occurs when your eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, causing blurred or dim vision. Cataracts are extremely common and usually develop gradually with age, but can also result from injury or certain health conditions. Cataract surgery is the most frequently performed surgery in the world.

The decision for surgery depends on how cataracts affect your daily life. If you’re struggling to read, drive safely, recognise faces, or enjoy hobbies due to vision decline, it may be time to consider surgery. Early-stage cataracts often don’t require immediate treatment – your eye specialist will help you determine the right timing based on your visual needs and lifestyle.

No. The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthetic (numbing eye drops), so you won’t feel pain – just occasional gentle pressure or the sensation of cool fluid. You may receive mild sedation to help you relax. Afterward, your eye may feel slightly gritty or sensitive for a day or two, typically managed with over-the-counter pain relief if needed.

Yes, your vision will be very blurry during the procedure due to the anaesthetic and surgical process – you may see lights and shadows but won’t see instruments or feel discomfort. A small device gently holds your eyelid open, and many patients are surprised by how quick and comfortable the experience is.

The surgery itself typically takes 10-20 minutes. You’ll spend additional time at the clinic for preparation and post-operative monitoring, with most patients in and out within 2-3 hours. It’s a same-day outpatient procedure – no overnight stay required. Someone will need to drive you home afterward.