Refractive Lens Exchange
What is Refractive Lens Exchange?
Refractive lens exchange, also called RLE, is an advanced procedure that can correct your refractive error and allow you to experience greater visual freedom. At Carolina Cataract & Laser Center, our team of experienced refractive surgeons is proud to offer this procedure to help you achieve your vision goals.
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a surgical procedure that involves replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens, often called an IOL, to correct vision problems called refractive errors. RLE can correct refractive errors like presbyopia, nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
This procedure is similar to cataract surgery but is performed for different reasons. Instead of removing a cloudy natural lens, in RLE, the procedure is done specifically to correct your refractive error and reduce dependence on visual aids.
What Happens During Refractive Lens Exchange?
During the RLE procedure, your RLE surgeon will create a small incision in the cornea and carefully break up and remove the natural lens. Next, they will replace the natural lens with a custom-selected artificial IOL.
The new lens is designed to improve vision and reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses. Once the new IOL is in place, the procedure will be complete.
The tiny opening in your cornea will heal naturally during your recovery without the need for stitches. The procedure typically takes about fifteen to twenty minutes per eye and is performed under local anesthesia.
Although RLE can help many people experience greater visual freedom, it may not be the best refractive procedure for everyone. The best way to know if RLE may be right for you is to schedule a consultation at Carolina Cataract & Laser Center in Charleston, South Carolina, for a complete evaluation.
What Are the Benefits of RLE?
The refractive lens exchange procedure offers several benefits, including:
RLE is an outpatient procedure, meaning you will be able to return home the same day to start your recovery process.
How Do I Know if Refractive Lens Exchange is Right For Me?
Refractive lens exchange may be a good option for patients over forty with presbyopia, nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism and those who want to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. It can also be a good option for patients who are not good candidates for laser vision correction procedures like LASIK.
The only way to ensure that RLE is right for you is to schedule a consultation with an experienced eye surgeon. They will perform a comprehensive eye exam, discuss your vision goals and lifestyle needs, and help you make an informed decision about whether this procedure is the best option for you.
At Carolina Cataract & Laser Center, our team of skilled eye surgeons has extensive experience performing refractive lens exchange. We use the latest technology and techniques to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
