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Refractive lens exchange (RLE) is a type of surgery that corrects eyesight problems.
During surgery, an ophthalmologist uses ultrasound to remove the natural eye lens. They then insert a replacement intraocular lens (IOL). The result is clear vision.1
Good candidates for refractive lens exchange include people who:
Presbyopia (or age-related farsightedness) is another common eye problem. It affects up to 80% of people by age 45 to 55.2 Refractive lens exchange is an excellent procedure for people with this condition.3
A refractive error means that the eye doesn't focus light properly because of its shape.
These problems happen when the:
Refractive lens exchange is usually an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. It is performed under local anesthesia with sedation. You are awake but relaxed during the 30-minute procedure.
A week before the procedure, you'll have a comprehensive eye exam to assess vision and eye health. If you wear contact lenses, you will need to stop wearing them the week before.
During the exam, the ophthalmologist measures the shape of your eyeball and how well it focuses light. These tests help them choose the right type and power of artificial lens.
Several days before surgery, you may need to:
Your doctor will provide specific instructions about preparing for the refractive lens exchange surgery.
During surgery, the surgeon will:
Arrange for someone to pick you up and stay with you after surgery. You will not be allowed to drive after the procedure. Also, plan to avoid strenuous activity for 48 hours post-surgery.
You may have blurry vision until the drops wear off. Most people have clear vision by the following day.
You might also experience mild discomfort or a gritty sensation for a few days. You may need to use anti-inflammatory and antibiotic drops for several weeks, depending on your doctor’s instructions.
Your vision may fluctuate in the weeks following surgery as your eyes heal. Therefore, your ophthalmologist will monitor your eye health during regular eye exams.
No surgical procedure is without risk, including refractive lens exchange. Although side effects are usually minimal, they may include:
RLE is a complex procedure that typically uses customized lenses. Cost ranges from $2,500 to $4,500 per eye, depending on the person's region, surgeon, and specific needs.
Insurance may not cover the cost because RLE is considered an elective procedure. Although, some clinics might provide financing options to make the costs more manageable.
There are multiple benefits to RLE, including:
Refractive lens exchange risks include:
Of these, retinal detachment is the most serious. It can lead to permanent vision loss. However, it can be treated with surgery.4
There are alternative treatment options for people who are not suitable candidates for RLE.
LASIK is a refractive surgery that corrects vision by reshaping the cornea. It is often the preferred treatment option because it is less invasive than RLE. It also has a shorter recovery time and typically costs less.
However, not everyone is suitable for LASIK. People with thin corneas, large pupils, or severe refractive errors are not good candidates. In these cases, RLE may be the best option.5
More than 50% of Americans over 80 have had cataracts or cataract surgery.6
Cataract surgery removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with an artificial one. It is usually performed when cataracts cause vision problems. In contrast, RLE is typically performed to correct vision problems before cataracts develop.
Unlike RLE, insurance might cover cataract surgery. This is because it is medically necessary rather than an elective procedure.
Like RLE, an artificial intraocular lens is implanted in the eye. Unlike RLE, the eye’s natural lens is not removed.
They are an alternative to LASIK surgery for people who have extreme nearsightedness and cannot have laser surgery.
Refractive lens exchange (RLE) is a type of eye surgery. It corrects vision by replacing the eye's natural lens with an artificial one.
It is performed to improve vision and eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
RLE has a short recovery time and typically provides immediate vision improvements. It is a more permanent solution than laser vision correction but may not be suitable for everyone.
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