Refractive Lens Exchange for Presbyopia

If you are frustrated with nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatisms causing the need for glasses, contacts or “cheater” you came to the right place.  As you may know nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatisms are usually caused by your eye being out of round. 

The need for reading glasses as you age is usually caused by Presbyopia.

What is Presbyopia and how is it treated?

Presbyopia is a hardening of the natural lens in your eye as you age.  This is what causes the need for “cheaters” or “readers” glasses. The progression of Presbyopia typically starts around age 40-45 and may cause patients to need increasingly strong glasses. This is typically caused by a lack of flexibility in the natural lens which is tied to the aging process. 

Refractive Lens Exchange (“RLE”), is an increasingly popular approach to combating Presbyopia as well as Nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatisms. RLE eye surgery is very similar to cataract surgery, extremely safe, and it involves replacing the natural lens in your eye. Technology advancements now make it possible to customize the lens to your specific needs.  The procedure is often used for people who want to reduce or eliminate their need for glasses.

Another benefit of RLE surgery is you will never need cataract surgery. 

Man standing in kitchen trying to read his phone in one hand while holding eye glasses in another.

How Does Refractive Lens Exchange Work?

Like cataract surgery, the RLE procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis. Typically, one eye is treated at a time.

Before the surgery, your eyes will be carefully examined, and precise vision testing will be completed. Here are some key points about RLE surgery: 

  1. Anesthesia: The procedure is performed under local anesthesia to numb the eye area, ensuring your comfort throughout the process.
  2. Lens Removal: Your eye surgeon will create a small incision in the cornea and carefully remove the natural lens.
  3. IOL Implantation: Once the natural lens is removed, an artificial IOL (intraocular lens) is carefully inserted into the lens capsule (the membrane that previously held your natural lens in place).
  4. Recovery: After the procedure, the nursing staff will monitor you for a short period, and your surgeon will provide specific instructions for post-operative care and successful recovery.
Diagram of the Natural Lens Removal with an Advanced IOL Implantation

Benefits of Refractive Lens Exchange

By correcting refractive errors, RLE can significantly reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses, improving convenience and comfort. It is particularly beneficial for individuals over 45 struggling with presbyopia, enhancing their near vision and far vision. With advanced technology premium lenses people have the greatest potential to eliminate the need for glasses or contacts. 

The procedure is also an excellent option for individuals with thin corneas or chronic eye disease who may not qualify for LASIK or other corneal-based procedures. This has led to RLEs becoming an increasingly popular choice over LASIK which removes some of the cornea.

What Are My RLE Lens Options?

When it comes to picking the right RLE lens, the choices are just as important as your sight. Learn about your options on our RLE Lens options page here.

See My RLE Lens Options
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