What Is a Spiral Lens?
A spiral lens is an artificial intraocular lens with a spiral optical design that helps focus light across different viewing distances. RayOne Galaxy, developed by Rayner, replaces the natural lens during cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange. It is designed to support distance, intermediate and near vision while reducing dependence on glasses.
The word “spiral” describes its optics. It does not mean the lens spins inside your eye.
Reading a message, checking a laptop and looking across the room all require different ranges of vision. When choosing a replacement lens, the question is how well it can support those everyday changes in distance.
RayOne Galaxy approaches this challenge with a spiral design. Here is what that means, what the research tells us and what to discuss before choosing a lens.
Why Does the Shape of a Lens Matter?
An artificial lens changes how light is focused inside the eye. Different optical designs produce different ranges of useful vision, with different compromises.
Rayner describes Galaxy as a non-diffractive spiral lens. Its smooth spiral optic offers an alternative to the stepped, concentric-ring designs used by many diffractive trifocal lenses.
The Optical Aim
Provide a broad range of focus, helping patients move between nearby tasks, arm’s-length activities and distance viewing.
The Patient Question
How well will that range suit your eyes, your working distances and the lighting conditions you use most?
What Does “Designed with AI” Mean?
Artificial intelligence was used during development to help optimise the optical design. It does not mean the implanted lens contains a computer or learns your habits after surgery.
Think About Your Day in Three Distances
Before comparing lens names, think about the activities you want to make easier.
Near
Messages, menus, books and small details.
Ask: Might I still need glasses for small print or prolonged reading?
Intermediate
Laptops, cooking and tasks at arm’s length.
Ask: How does the lens suit my usual screen distance?
Distance
Television, outdoor activities and driving.
Ask: What should I expect in daylight and after dark?
LOOKING AT THE EVIDENCE
What Has Research Found So Far?
A study published in the Journal of Refractive Surgery in November 2025 assessed Galaxy through both preclinical vision simulation and postoperative clinical evaluation.
The simulation compared Galaxy with a diffractive RayOne Trifocal lens and found less halo and glare with Galaxy. Separately, patients receiving Galaxy lenses in both eyes were assessed across 10 clinical sites.
At three months, the clinical results showed a broad range of vision, with halo and glare symptoms generally reported as minor.
How should patients interpret this? These are encouraging early findings. However, a simulated comparison is not the same as a head-to-head surgical trial, and three-month results do not establish long-term superiority over every alternative lens.
Does a Spiral Lens Mean No Halos or Glare?
No lens can promise that. Galaxy’s design aims to reduce these effects, but patients can still notice rings around lights, glare or other changes in visual quality.
This matters particularly if you drive frequently after dark. Discuss your night-driving needs before selecting an implant, rather than relying on the lens name or a simulated image.
A useful consultation question: “For someone with my eyes and driving habits, what are the advantages and compromises of this lens compared with the alternatives?”
Comparing Lens Options Without the Jargon
Use these questions to guide a discussion about specific lens models. Labels alone cannot predict your result.
| Lens Option | What to Ask Your Surgeon |
|---|---|
| Monofocal | Which distance would we target, and when would I need glasses? |
| EDOF | What range does this particular model provide, especially for reading? |
| Trifocal | How do its near-vision benefits balance against possible light disturbances? |
| Spiral, such as Galaxy | What evidence supports its use for my eyes, and how does it compare with your other recommendations? |
What Does Having a Spiral Lens Fitted Involve?
Galaxy is implanted during lens surgery. The surgeon removes the natural lens and places the artificial lens within the capsule that previously held it.
When the natural lens has become cloudy, this is cataract surgery. When the main aim is reducing dependence on glasses before a visually significant cataract develops, it is generally called refractive lens exchange.
The procedure is usually performed under local anaesthetic. You receive instructions about eye drops, activity restrictions and follow-up appointments while the eye heals.
Benefits and Risks Belong in the Same Conversation
Lens surgery carries risks, including infection, inflammation, retinal complications and an unexpected visual result. Glasses or further treatment may still be needed. Your surgeon should explain your individual risks before you decide.
Four Questions Patients Often Ask
Will I definitely stop needing glasses?
No. The aim is greater independence from glasses. Your final prescription, eye health and visual demands influence whether you still need them for certain activities.
Can Galaxy address astigmatism?
A toric Galaxy version is available for suitable patients with corneal astigmatism. Measurements help determine whether it is appropriate and how it should be positioned.
Is this the same as an implantable contact lens?
No. Galaxy replaces the natural lens. An implantable contact lens is an additional lens placed inside the eye while the natural lens remains.
Can I discuss Galaxy lenses with Dr Fadi Kherdaji?
Yes. A consultation gives you an opportunity to discuss Galaxy alongside other lens options. Suitability and the treatment location should be confirmed as part of your individual plan.
Explore What Matters for Your Vision
Bring your everyday priorities to the consultation: the reading you enjoy, the screens you use and how often you drive at night. These details help make lens selection a practical discussion about your life.
Find out more about Rayner Galaxy lenses with Dr Fadi Kherdaji and the assessment involved.