What is Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)?
Our skilled team of board-certified ophthalmologists is proud to perform refractive lens exchange for patients throughout San Antonio, TX and its neighboring communities. This procedure is very much like cataract surgery except that instead of having a cloudy lens, the patient is having their natural lens replaced with an IOL (intraocular lens) to improve their vision. RLE can be a great solution for individuals with a severe refractive error (myopia or hyperopia) and who aren’t eligible for LASIK or PRK. To find out if RLE could be your preferred method for improved vision, contact Focal Point Vision, and schedule a consultation.
How Does RLE Work?
After your initial evaluation to find out if you’re eligible for RLE, our ophthalmologists will determine the most suitable kind of artificial lenses for your specific needs. Our team performs RLE as an outpatient procedure that typically is finished in about 10 – 20 minutes. To carry out your treatment, we will make an incredibly small incision in the corneal tissue and use specialized technology to delicately split up the natural lens and take it out. We then place your new custom lenses. Nearly all patients who choose RLE will notice an improvement in their vision in only a week.
When is RLE Appropriate?
Prevent the Need for Cataract Surgery.
Refractive lens exchange might be appropriate if you are in the early stages of presbyopia and developing cataracts. This time is estimated between 45 and 60 years old. At this age, due to presbyopia and early cataract development, there are limited vision correction options, but RLE has emerged as a successful option.
Do You Have
Blurry Vision?
Do You Have
Driving Issues?
Do You Have
Hazy Vision?
What Are The Benefits Of Refractive Lens Exchange?
Refractive lens exchange in San Antonio, TX at Focal Point Vision can help you achieve the improved vision you want with wide-ranging benefits, including:
- Offers multiple replacement lens options
- Creates dramatically clearer, sharper vision
- Reduces reliance on glasses and contact lenses
- Provides an effective alternative for patients not eligible for LASIK
- Removes cataracts (if present)
- Vision improvements are almost immediate
- New lenses are not susceptible to cataracts
- A more permanent vision improvement solution
- Procedure is quick and easy
- Recovery time is short
Who Is A Candidate For Refractive Lens Exchange?
The best candidates for refractive lens exchange are typically over the age of 40, have not developed cataracts, and are experiencing age-related reduced visual acuity known as presbyopia. People with moderate to high farsightedness or nearsightedness who are not candidates for LASIK or PRK can also benefit. RLE (refractive lens exchange) is for people wanting to achieve improved vision at multiple distances with a reduced reliance on glasses or contacts.
Long-Term Clear Vision
Refractive lens exchange at Focal Point Vision is an exciting surgery that can significantly enhance not only your vision but your general self-confidence. For those who aren’t recommended candidates for LASIK or PRK, RLE can reduce or stop your reliance on prescription glasses and contacts. This treatment can also eliminate your chance of developing cataracts. Reach out or visit our San Antonio, TX practice to schedule your consultation to learn more about refractive lens exchange.
Refractive Lens Exchange FAQ
Is refractive lens exchange safe?
Refractive lens exchange is just as safe as cataract surgery. Focal Point Vision is proud to offer modern tools and technologies in our office so patients can feel confident about their procedure. Although refractive lens exchange is one of the most common kinds of eye surgery, complications can occur. Speak with a member of our eye care team if you have concerns.
Is refractive lens exchange permanent?
Because refractive lens exchange is considered permanent, you can look forward to decades of clear vision and minimizing your dependence on glasses and contacts. However, it’s important to continue to schedule regular eye exams so we can monitor your progress and make sure your eyes remain healthy for life.
Will I still need to wear glasses after refractive lens exchange?
With refractive lens exchange, you may need to wear glasses after surgery, depending on your current prescription and the type of lens chosen before your procedure. Some patients have unique needs and still require corrective lenses after surgery. Your ophthalmologist can give you more information about whether you need glasses before surgery.
