AmbioDisk® in Nashville, TN

Wang Vision Institute INVENTED the amniotic membrane contact lens, obtained two U.S. patents for the invention and published the first scientific paper in the literature that demonstrated the reduction of corneal scarring after amniotic membrane application.

At Wang Vision Institute, we performed the world’s first amniotic membrane contact lens (AMCL) procedure. Amniotic membrane tissue, which comes from the innermost layer of the placenta, has been used for medical purposes for nearly 70 years. However, recent advancements in research, techniques, and technologies have allowed medical professionals to utilize the amnion in ways that were unheard of in the past. For 16 years, world-renown ophthalmologist Dr. Ming Wang carefully studied the properties of donated amniotic membranes and found that the amnion possesses regenerative and healing properties that are both safe and effective in helping with a range of eye-related conditions. After 16 years of research and study, he was able to develop the world's first AMCL to use for patients across Nashville, TN and beyond.

The AMCL is a natural healing lens. It utilizes the fetal wound-healing property of the amniotic membrane to help in healing the ocular surface of dry eyes that have not been responsive to all conventional treatments. The goal of the AMCL treatment for dry eyes is to reduce inflammation and discomfort and to allow the ocular surface to heal and recover from damage caused by dryness. Our eye surgeons in Nashville are excited to offer this innovative treatment for men and women alike struggling with dry eye or other vision complications.

There are many reasons patients in Nashville choose to undergo our cutting-edge AMCL procedure. Unlike other treatments that focus on temporary symptom relief, Dr. Wang enables you to enjoy longer-lasting results through the use of an amniotic membrane. Our procedure is designed to stimulate natural healing so you can look forward to improved vision and better overall eye health. Furthermore, our AMCL treatment is considered safe and effective, with minimal to no risk of side effects. We are confident that our advanced techniques can help you achieve your desired results.

If you've struggled with dry eye syndrome in the past and have not been able to find relief through medications or other treatments, then the AMCL may be a great solution for you. Additionally, patients who have vision impairment as a result of corneal scars may also benefit from the effects of an amniotic membrane contact lens treatment. AMCL aims to reduce inflammation and discomfort in the affected eyes. To fully determine your candidacy, our eye surgeons in Nashville will meet with you to discuss your condition, symptoms, and treatment history. We will also conduct a comprehensive eye examination to get a better understanding of your current situation.

After preparing the amniotic membrane contact lens for use, a member of our team will numb the patient's eye with a topical anesthetic. Once the area is fully numb, we will place the AM (amniotic membrane) disk onto the surface and smooth out the disk so that it lies down evenly. We will then administer drops to activate the amniotic membrane and finish off the treatment by placing a bandage contact lens over the disk and the surface of the cornea. Depending on their unique condition and needs, some patients may require a second application of the AMCL. This simple yet effective nonsurgical treatment can often be performed in just a few minutes at our Nashville, TN office.

You will be expected to attend a check-in appointment following your treatment so that we can assess your progress. Patients often tolerate the amniotic membrane contact lens very well and report relief from painful dry eye symptoms, such as inflammation and discomfort. You may experience blurry vision, but this is temporary and will fade. The amniotic membrane disk will typically take one week to dissolve, but this can vary among patients. Some patients may require an additional AMCL application to achieve their best outcome.

What causes corneal scarring?

Corneal scarring occurs when the clear, protective tissue that covers the front of the eye becomes damaged. Though the cornea is generally resilient, it can become injured from trauma, disease, or other conditions. When this happens, the body's natural healing process may cause the formation of scar tissue, causing vision problems and other complications. An amniotic membrane contact lens can be used to treat corneal scarring.

Does an amniotic membrane contact lens hurt?

Patients at Wang Vision Institute will not feel any pain while the amniotic membrane contact lens is being placed. This is because the eye is numbed with anesthetic drops before the procedure begins. Our Nashville eye center takes great care to ensure our patients are comfortable throughout the entire process.

What is the success rate of amniotic membrane contact lenses?

The success rate of amniotic membrane contact lenses for corneal scarring is very high. In most cases, patients who use this treatment experience a significant improvement in their vision. People also report a decrease in pain and other symptoms associated with chronic dry eyes.

What conditions do amniotic membrane contact lenses treat?

Amniotic membrane contact lenses are used to treat a variety of corneal conditions, including dry eye syndrome, corneal ulcers, chemical burns, recurrent corneal erosion, and other types of eye trauma or inflammation. These lenses are also effective in aiding recovery after certain eye surgeries. Wang Vision Institute offers amniotic membrane lenses as part of our comprehensive treatment options for patients with corneal injuries or diseases.

How are amniotic membrane contact lenses applied?

Amniotic membrane contact lenses are applied in a similar manner to regular contact lenses. The lens is placed over the cornea, where it adheres and delivers its healing properties. The lens is typically left in place for several days to a week, depending on the severity of the condition and the patient’s response to treatment.

How long do I need to wear amniotic membrane contact lenses?

The duration of wear for amniotic membrane contact lenses depends on the condition being treated and how well your cornea responds to the therapy. In most cases, the lenses are worn for a few days to a week. Our team will monitor your progress and determine when it is appropriate to remove the lens.

Wang Vision Institute continues to be at the forefront of revolutionizing modern ocular care. After spending nearly two decades studying the regenerative medical properties that exist within the amniotic membrane and placenta, Dr. Ming Wang is proud to offer AMCL to improve vision and change the lives of patients with dry eye syndrome or corneal scarring. If you haven't found relief for your dry eye or want to learn more about the uses and benefits of AMCL, contact our eye surgeons in Nashville, TN and speak to a member of our skilled team.