Refractive Lens Exchange

What is Refractive lens exchange?

Refractive lens exchange, also known as clear lens exchange is a vision correction procedure where the natural lens is replaced by an artificial intraocular lens to correct the focusing power of the eye. It corrects near sightedness , far sightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia.​

Who is a good candidate for RLE?

​Generally patients above 40 who need glasses or are completely dependent on glasses for reading as well as for seeing far away or distant objects benefit from this procedure.

How does RLE work?

The surgery is similar to cataract surgery and involves removing the clear natural lens which has not yet become cloudy (cataract) and replacing it with an artificial lens to correct vision for far, mid range, and near depending on the lens choice. It is different from LASIK in that it does not reshape the cornea but replaces the natural lens for vision correction.

The procedure is painless and done under light sedation. It takes about 20 minutes to perform the procedure. Most patients can start driving in a day or two after the procedure.

The procedure provides a continuous range of vision. Occasionally you may need readers for specific tasks like reading fine print or in certain situations like reading in dim lights.

Will I need cataract surgery after RLE?

One of the biggest advantages of RLE is that you will never develop cataracts since the natural lens is removed in the procedure. So a single RLE surgery improves vision at all distances as well as eliminates the need for cataract surgery in the future.

What are the benefits of RLE procedure?

No need for cataract surgery in the future
Improved vision at all distances
Permanent vision correction
Reduced dependence on glasses

How will I know if RLE is the right procedure for me?

We are happy to offer you a consultation in our office. During your visit we will perform various eye tests and an eye examination to get information about your eyes. Dr. Sane with discuss the results of the exam and the different diagnostic tests. She will go over the various lens (IOL) options to help you choose the lens that best fits your visual requirements based on your lifestyle and outcome of the eye tests.