Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is an alternative to LASIK vision correction for patients who are severely farsighted or require reading glasses for up-close vision (the condition called presbyopia).
An RLE procedure is quite similar to cataract surgery because the eye’s natural lens is removed and replaced with a specific type of artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Different IOLs can improve reading vision or your unique refractive error that is causing blurry vision. You do not need to have cataracts in order to benefit from an RLE procedure.
An added benefit of RLE is that cataracts will not form on the replacement lenses. This can prevent you from needing cataract surgery in the future.
At Atlanta Vision Cataract and Laser Center our Atlanta Refractive Lens Exchange specialists offer a variety of IOLs (monofocal, multifocal, accommodating and Toric) to meet the varying vision needs of our patients. During initial exams, we’ll determine which type will provide your best vision results.
How Refractive Lens Exchange Works
Only one eye is treated at a time. Expect to be in our office for a few hours on the day of your procedure, but the actual surgery only takes about 15 minutes.
- Numbing eye drops are applied to your eyes
- Your doctor makes a small corneal incision to gently remove the natural lens
- The pre-selected IOL is inserted
Refractive Lens Exchange Recovery
Recovery typically takes one week, but it may take longer to achieve your final, clear vision results. When your first eye is fully healed, you can have the procedure performed on your second eye.
Your new lens will not be visible to other people and you will not feel it in your eye. However, you should enjoy the benefits of your improved vision!
Types of Intraocular Lens Implants for RLE
Choosing your IOL for refractive lens exchange is a significant decision, and it’s essential to consider your lifestyle and the activities you enjoy or may enjoy in your old age. IOLs are made of a synthetic, biocompatible material that can last a lifetime, and our eye doctors can help you determine which one will give you the best visual outcome for your needs.
There are many variations and IOL brands to consider, including:
Multifocal Lenses
Multifocal IOLs work like bifocal eyeglasses and have two corrective zones for near and distant vision, though some versions may correct intermediate vision. These bifocal lens implants can reduce your dependence on corrective eyewear for nearsightedness and farsightedness. Still, if you do a lot of computer work or enjoy playing card games, you may need an IOL that addresses the intermediate focal point. Multifocal lenses may cause glare or haloes around lights and decrease contrast sensitivity.
Extended-Depth-of-Focus (EDOF) Lenses
EDOF intraocular lens implants use one corrective zone that stretches to allow intermediate and distance vision. These IOLs can offer a continuous field of vision that is high-quality at a range of distances. Extended-depth-of-focus IOLs elongate your focus point and are less likely to cause haloing and glare around light sources.
Accommodative Lenses
Accommodative IOLs are designed to work like your eye’s natural lens, using the movements of the eye’s muscles to alter focus. These lenses can correct vision at all focal points and enable the eye to accommodate focus power, much like a camera lens. Your eye adapts to allow light rays to focus correctly on the retina for sharp vision. These lenses may reduce your need for reading glasses.
Trifocal Lenses
While other IOLs focus on addressing nearsightedness and farsightedness, trifocal lenses take it one step further to eliminate the need for reading glasses. PanOptix Trifocal IOL is the only FDA-approved trifocal lens implant and the first of its kind to have three focal points for up-close, intermediate and distance vision.
Toric Lenses
Toric IOLs are versions of the above lens implants with a built-in correction for people with astigmatism. Astigmatism causes the corneal shape to morph into a football shape instead of a circular dome, creating visual distortions at all focal points. Toric versions of intraocular lens implants accommodate this abnormal shape.
What Patients Have to Say About Intraocular Lens Implants
“Dr. Achiron is an excellent doctor with a great bedside manner. He was sensitive to my fears, and I know I am a difficult patient! I had a great surgery and was comfortable with Len and the facility. Very important was the PRICE. Dr. Achiron was able to do the surgery and get me my lens at a fraction of the price I would have paid elsewhere. I cannot thank him enough, and I recommend Atlanta Vision without reservation. I can see again!” – Jeff Kenis, Patient.
“We love Dr. Len!! Great staff as they are attentive and friendly but most importantly my vision is exceptional after cataract and implant surgery! His attention to detail as well as personal interaction are incomparable!” – J Kevin Foster, Patient.
How Much Does Refractive Lens Exchange Cost?
The cost of RLE varies and may depend on the type of IOL you choose for your procedure. Clear lens exchange is an elective procedure and, therefore, not covered by insurance. However, RLE is eligible for funds from your Flexible Spending Account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA). The average cost per eye for refractive lens exchange is around $4,000, but the price estimate you receive at your consultation will depend on many factors. Our Atlanta office may be able to help you with financing options so you can enjoy excellent eyesight and freedom from corrective eyewear with affordable payments.
To find out if refractive lens exchange in Atlanta is right for you, contact us today to schedule an eye exam.
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) FAQs
What is refractive lens exchange (RLE)?
Refractive lens exchange is a vision correction procedure in which the eye’s natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). It is similar to cataract surgery but is performed to correct refractive errors such as severe farsightedness or presbyopia, even when cataracts are not present.
Who is a good candidate for refractive lens exchange?
RLE is often recommended for patients who are not ideal LASIK candidates, particularly those who are severely farsighted or dependent on reading glasses due to presbyopia. A comprehensive eye exam is required to determine whether RLE is the best option for your vision needs.
How does the refractive lens exchange procedure work?
The procedure is performed on one eye at a time and typically takes about 15 minutes. Numbing eye drops are used, a small incision is made to remove the natural lens, and a pre-selected IOL is inserted. Patients usually spend a few hours at the office on the day of surgery.
What is recovery like after refractive lens exchange?
Initial recovery usually takes about one week, though it may take longer for vision to fully stabilize. Once the first eye has healed, the procedure can be performed on the second eye. The implanted lens cannot be felt or seen, but patients enjoy the benefits of clearer vision.
What types of intraocular lenses are available for RLE?
Several IOL options are available, including multifocal, extended-depth-of-focus (EDOF), accommodative, trifocal, and toric lenses. Each type offers different benefits based on lifestyle, visual goals, and whether astigmatism is present.
How much does refractive lens exchange cost?
RLE is an elective procedure and is not typically covered by insurance. Costs vary depending on the type of IOL selected, with the average cost around $4,000 per eye. The procedure is often eligible for FSA or HSA funds, and financing options may be available.