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Poor vision can be disruptive and frustrating. Thankfully, there is an extensive range of treatments available for eye conditions like near- or far-sightedness and astigmatism. Refractive surgery is one of the most commonly recommended permanent solutions for refractive errors, and a refractive lens exchange is one such procedure.
A refractive lens exchange (RLE) procedure involves a surgeon using ultrasound to remove the lens of the eye and replace it with an intraocular lens (IOL).
The procedure typically follows a simple treatment plan:
The entire process only takes around ten minutes per eye, and your vision should begin to clear within a few days after the surgery.
IOLs are typically inserted after cataract surgery. However, they can also be used to help treat near- or farsightedness and astigmatism.
There are various lenses available, and your surgeon will typically recommend the best option for you. Lens options include:
Refractive lens replacement surgery is a good option for a range of candidates, including patients who:
RLE offers a range of benefits, including:
It is essential to note the RLE cannot improve all forms of vision, and you may not be able to stop wearing glasses or contact lenses entirely.
As with any other surgical procedures, RLE carries a few risks, including:
Although refractive lens exchange surgery (RLE) and LASIK can provide similar outcomes, they have several key differences, such as:
Besides offering RLE, Dougherty Laser Vision provides a range of other refractive vision correction procedures that can address all your sight-related needs. If you are interested in RLE but want to know more about all the options available to you while obtaining a medical opinion on your condition, attend a complimentary consultation at Dougherty Laser Vision by calling (805) 987-5300 or scheduling an online appointment today.