U Education

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a surgical procedure that aims to improve or restore vision by replacing the eye's natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) that can improve your distance vision, reading vision or both. RLE is an excellent option if you are not a candidate for trandisional laser eye surgery, such as LASIK.

How does RLE work?

During the RLE surgery, the natural lens of the eye is removed and replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL). The IOL acts as a permanent implant that provides clear vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. The type of IOL chosen depends on the patient's visual needs and eye health. The surgery typically takes 15-20 minutes per eye and is performed under local anesthesia.

Who is a good candidate for RLE?

RLE is recommended for patients who are over 40 years old and wish to reduce their dependence on glasses and contacts. This procedure can improve near and distance vision as well as astigmatism.

What are the benefits of RLE?

The main benefit of RLE is improved vision without the need for glasses or contacts. Other advantages include reduced risk of developing cataracts in the future, improved night vision, and enhanced color perception. RLE can also correct astigmatism, which is a common refractive error that causes blurred vision.

What are the potential risks and complications of RLE?

As with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks and complications associated with RLE. Our eye care professionals will review all risks during a consultation.

Aftercare following RLE surgery

After the surgery, patients will need to rest for a few days to allow their eyes to heal properly. Antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops will be prescribed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Patients should avoid strenuous activities and refrain from rubbing their eyes for at least two weeks. Follow-up appointments with the eye surgeon will also be necessary to monitor the healing process and ensure optimal vision correction.

Contact UELC to Get Started!

Refractive Lens Exchange is a safe and effective procedure for correcting refractive errors and achieving clear vision without glasses or contact lenses. It is important to consult with the experienced eye surgeons at UELC to determine if RLE is the right option for you. Proper aftercare following surgery is also crucial for successful outcomes. With RLE, many patients can enjoy clear vision well into their golden years. So if you are considering RLE, make sure to reach out to UELC to determine if it is the best option for your individual needs and goals. Your future self will thank you for investing in your vision health. Keep seeing the world clearly with RLE! Remember, better vision means a better life.

‍