RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange)
While LASIK concentrates on correcting the cornea, refractive lens exchange replaces the natural lens of your eye with an advanced multifocal or accommodating intraocular lens (IOL), allowing clear vision up close, far away, and in between. Additionally, patients undergoing the refractive lens exchange procedure will never have to worry about cataracts as they age, since the advanced refractive lens exchange lens will remain clear.
Refractive lens exchange works best for older patients who are hyperopic (farsighted) or myopic (nearsighted) and want to lessen their dependence on reading glasses. To find out if refractive lens exchange is right for you, contact Boulder Eyes today.
The Refractive Lens Exchange Procedure
During the refractive lens exchange procedure at Boulder Eyes, a small incision is made at the edge of the cornea. A special probe is inserted through the incision to gently break up and suction out the damaged lens. The intraocular lens implant is then inserted into place. The entire refractive lens exchange procedure is completed in about 20 to 25 minutes, and visual recovery is rapid.
What Are the Benefits of Refractive Lens Exchange?
There are several advantages to the refractive lens exchange procedure, including:
- Quick visual recovery
- Permanent results without the use of a laser
- Eliminates the need for cataract surgery in the future
- Eliminates the dependence on glasses and contact lenses
