Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), also known as Clear Lens Extraction, is a type of vision correction procedure that involves replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens implant (IOL). Refractive Lens Exchange is often an excellent option for those who want to reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contacts, or those experiencing presbyopia (loss of near vision as we age) and are not good candidates for LASIK, PRK or Phakic IOLs.
The RLE procedure is identical to the procedure for cataract surgery, except that it is an elective procedure performed to reduce the need for eyeglasses and contact lenses. Refractive lens exchange is an ideal option for patients who require bifocals to see at multiple distances or for patients who see well at distance but require reading glasses for near tasks (a condition called “presbyopia”). While LASIK or PRK can correct one’s distance vision, an RLE can correct both one’s distance vision and near vision.
Refractive Lens Exchange is also used by the surgeons at Precision Vision for patients that have a common condition called Dysfunctional Lens Syndrome. Dysfunctional Lens Syndrome is common in patients over the age of 40 that have a loss of near vision and have issues with glare and halo, especially while driving at night. At Precision Vision, we use a highly advanced technology called iTrace Technology [MC1] that allows our doctors to determine if visual issues are occurring in the eye’s natural lens or the cornea. When visual issues occur in the eye’s lens, your Precision Vision surgeon will most likely suggest Refractive Lens Exchange rather than LASIK, PRK, or any other cornea-related vision correction procedure.
At Precision Vision, we perform multiple diagnostic tests to help determine if Refractive Lens Exchange is right for you. The typical candidate for RLE includes:
Patients that have a high degree of farsightedness (hyperopia) and are not good candidates for LASIK or PRK are often excellent candidates for Refractive Lens Exchange. Patients that have developed early cataracts but are not eligible for insurance to cover cataract surgery, are also often excellent candidates for Refractive Lens Exchange.
Refractive lens exchange is an ideal option for many of our patients who desire to reduce or eliminate their dependence on eyeglasses or contacts. Some of the many benefits of RLE include:
