[Results of aphakia correction with permanent silicone lenses]

Silicone contact lenses were fitted postoperatively to 114 aphakic eyes (55 children, 59 adults) and followed up for a maximum of 2 years. Provided they were fitted carefully the lenses were well tolerated for surprisingly long periods of time. Complications observed were superficial ulcer in 2 cases and circumscribed corneal infiltration in 3 cases and circumscribed corneal infiltration in 3 cases and circumscribed corneal infiltration in 3 cases. Corneal vascularization was not found. Postoperative vision was good, corneal astigmatism being reduced by 0.87 D on average. The main problems were deposition of organic material and in some cases poor hydrophilic properties of the lenses. Constant lens mobility is essential for long-term tolerance and avoidance of complications. At present it is recommended that the use of permanent-wear silicone lenses be restricted to special indications.