Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a procedure used to reduce or eliminate large amounts of nearsightedness and farsightedness and therefore may be a better surgical solution than laser vision correction for those with high prescriptions.
Also, if you’re age mid-forty or older, you’re probably finding it increasingly difficult to put things into focus, no matter what distance they are from your eyes. It’s a little harder to clearly see the face of your wristwatch, make out those road signs on the highway before you pass your exit, or even read the fine print on your TV, without glasses. This condition is known as presbyopia and it continues to progress as we age.
In recent years, laser vision correction has made it possible for millions of individuals who are nearsighted and farsighted to eliminate, or greatly reduce, their need for glasses and contacts. Although laser vision correction can treat these conditions, it cannot correct all prescription or presbyopia to restore the eye’s full range of vision.
Unlike procedures that focus on changing the shape of the cornea, ReLex works on the lens inside the eye. Consequently, your vision after the procedure will be stable and unlikely to change over time. In addition, cataract surgery will not be necessary later in life. The premium lens that the surgeon will suggest, is used to replace your eye’s natural lens and will provide you with clearer vision, giving you little or no dependence on traditional glasses or contacts or progressive bifocal glasses.
Just like during a typical cataract surgery, a surgeon will remove the eye’s natural lens through a micro-incision and replace it with a small plastic lens. It is then unfolded and placed into permanent position. Patients go home soon after the procedure to relax for the rest of the day. Everyone heals somewhat differently, but many patients report improvement in their vision almost immediately and most return to their normal activities within a day or two. ReLex is usually performed on the second eye a week to two after the first procedure.
If you’re interested in learning more about if refractive lens exchange is right for you, please click the link below to request an appointment!
