Having a visual acuity of 20/20 is the ultimate goal when it comes to eyesight. However, not every person has been given the gift of having a perfect vision to witness the world’s beauty and do daily tasks with ease; therefore, the need for corrective procedures. One example of a surgical procedure for vision enhancement is refractive lens surgery or refractive lens exchange. Learn more about it in this article.
What Is Refractive Lens Exchange?
Also known as lens replacement surgery or clear lens exchange, refractive lens exchange (RLE) is a process wherein an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted to replace the natural lens of your eyes. This procedure is ideal for those who have experienced vision deterioration due to ageing.
It helps sharpen the vision of people with presbyopia (loss of the ability to focus on objects nearby) and high hyperopia (farsightedness). Moreover, RLE provides a better option for older people who are not qualified for LASIK surgery.
The Refractive Lens Surgery Procedure
Here’s what you can expect on the day of your RLE surgery:
- Refractive lens exchange takes approximately 15 minutes to complete for each eye.
- Surgeons carry out the surgery for each eye on different days, which is usually about a week apart.
- To prevent discomfort, surgeons drop an anaesthetic eyedrop in your eye.
- An eyelid holder will keep your eye open during the process.
- Then, the surgeon will create a tiny opening to the eye. Remember, numbing anaesthetic drops are in your eyes so that you won’t undergo a painful process.
- Lastly, the surgeon will gently fragment your eye’s natural lens, and the artificial intraocular lens is implanted.
You will then have a clearer vision within a few days following the surgery.
Why Should You Choose Refractive Lens Exchange?
Refractive lens exchange corrects the poor refraction in your eye, which improves your eyes’ overall health. Here are five reasons to choose refractive lens exchange:
It Has Long-Term Benefits
The intraocular lens implant is made of clear plastic, the size of which is about one-third of a dime. The good thing about this artificial implant is that it does not break down throughout a person’s lifetime. Therefore, there is no need for a replacement on a regular basis.
Because IOLs don’t change with time, it gives a more permanent solution to eye problems. And people who have this implant will experience better visual quality.
It Has a Short Recovery Time
Patients who undergo other eye surgery procedures usually wait a long time before experiencing full recovery, which makes doing day-to-day activities difficult. With a refractive lens exchange, the patient can enjoy having clear eyesight a few days or even a day after the procedure.
Patients who have undergone this type of surgery attest that their vision improved a day after the procedure immediately. Plus, the process only takes about 15 minutes, as previously mentioned.
It Provides Options When You Are Not Qualified for Other Procedures
People over the age of 40 may not be qualified for LASIK. But as long as your cataracts aren’t fully developed, you can be qualified for refractive lens exchange.
Moreover, ophthalmologists recommend RLE for those who have a severe refractive error or malfunctioned cornea since the said eye conditions can be difficult to treat with other vision corrective surgery.
It Relieves You from the Burden of Wearing Eyeglasses
Wearing spectacles can be a hassle, especially when you are doing strenuous activities. On the other hand, having to wear contact lenses every day can cause discomfort. Plus, it takes time to apply for those who are new to it. The best solution to this is RLE.
How Safe Is Refractive Lens Surgery?
While all types of surgeries entail risks, we guarantee our patients a safe and effective procedure. Understandably, other people are concerned with refractive lens surgery being an invasive procedure. Still, you have nothing to worry about with our team of experts who have years of experience and extensive training.
Before proceeding with the surgery, we will invite you to a consultation, and we’ll discuss everything to you to lessen your worries. Also, we ensure that we pinpoint the client’s needs and the right treatment for their condition.
Keep Yourself Safe From Vision Deterioration
Vision Deterioration is inevitable, especially when a person gets older. That is why we recommend refractive lens exchange for people who want to have a clear vision without the need for corrective glasses.
Let Sussex Eye Laser Clinic save you from this eye condition, so you can see the world the way you saw it before—clearer and sharper. With our safe and effective refractive lens surgery, you can live your life the way you want to with a pair of eyes that leads you to the right path.
Contact us on 01273 083780 or email us at info@sussexeyelaserclinic.co.uk for more information. See you at our eye clinic!