What is Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery?
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is an advanced vision correction procedure designed to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contacts. It involves gently removing the eye’s natural lens and replacing it with a premium intraocular lens (IOL) tailored to your vision needs. RLE is an excellent solution for individuals over 40-50 experiencing presbyopia (difficulty focusing on close objects) or those with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or early cataract formation. For some, RLE can be an ideal alternative to LASIK, providing long-lasting vision correction.
Our RLE Lens Options
At Pacific Eye Surgeons, we offer a selection of state-of-the-art lenses to meet a variety of vision needs, ensuring personalized treatment for each patient:
Standard Monofocal IOLs
Standard mono-focal IOLs correct vision at one distance, whether near, intermediate, or far. Many patients use the IOL to improve distance vision and then use reading glasses for close-up work. Others put an IOL to correct for distance in one eye and an IOL to improve near vision in the other eye.
Multifocal IOLs
The team at Pacific Eye offers several of the top brands of multifocal lenses, which improve distance and near vision at the same time. The lenses are made with zones set at different powers and your brain gradually learns to select the right zone.
Accommodating IOLs
Accommodating IOLs also lets you see at multiple distances. Instead of different zones built into the IOL, these lenses use the eye’s natural muscles to flex the lens and adjust the focus at various distances.
Toric IOLs
Toric IOLs are complex lenses designed to correct astigmatism, including nearsightedness or farsightedness. Other types of premium IOLs available from Pacific Eye include lenses that protect your eyes from ultraviolet light or blue light. With these premium IOLs, we offer solutions for astigmatism correction, multifocal vision, and even customization with the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL), allowing adjustments post-surgery for optimal clarity.
Who is a Good Candidate for RLE?
RLE is a fantastic vision correction option for individuals who:
- Are aged 40-50 or older
- Have nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism
- Want to reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses or contact lenses
- Have early lens clouding or Dysfunctional Lens Syndrome (common after age 50)
- Want to treat presbyopia with a multifocal implant
- Seek an alternative to LASIK
What to Expect on Surgery Day
Here’s a quick look at what to expect:
- Preparation: You’ll receive a mild sedative and an anesthetic eye drop to numb the area.
- Procedure: Your surgeon will create a tiny opening, remove the natural lens with ultrasound or femtosecond laser, and replace it with a carefully chosen IOL.
- Recovery: Vision typically improves within a few days, with minimal discomfort.
Your surgeon will help you select the best IOL option based on your unique visual needs and lifestyle.
Learn More at Pacific Eye Surgeons
The only way to determine if RLE is right for you is to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the journey to a clearer vision. Contact us today to learn more or to book an appointment at our conveniently located centers.
Frequently asked questions about Refractive Lens Exchange(RLE)
