Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) – An Alternative to Laser Vision Correction
Refractive lens exchange (RLE), is a way to reduce your dependence on corrective eye wear by replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial lens. RLE treatments can be helpful for patients who may not candidates for LASIK or other laser vision correction procedures. They are also often recommended for patients who have severe cases of farsightedness, nearsightedness, or astigmatism, and they can be beneficial for many patients who have presbyopia. While standard and toric intraocular lenses (IOLs) are often utilized in cataract surgery procedures, the surgeons Annandale EyeCare works with also offers these types of lenses, in addition to options such as phakic intraocular lenses and implantable collamer lenses (ICLs), to help non-cataract patients improve their vision.
Benefits of Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
RLE offers a number of benefits for individuals who want to correct refractive errors and enhance their visual acuity, including:
- An alternative to laser vision correction procedures such as LASIK or PRK
- Results are permanent
- Reduces the need for glasses and contact lenses
- You will never develop a cataract or need cataract surgery in the future
- More severe cases of refractive errors can be successfully treated
The RLE Treatment Process
Refractive lens exchange is identical to a cataract surgery. Like cataract surgery, the procedure is virtually painless and recovery is quick. Most patients are able to return to their daily routines, with few exceptions, the next day.