REFRACTIVE LENS EXCHANGE IN SEATTLE
If you’re one of the many people interested in obtaining clear vision, but aren’t a candidate for Lasik or PRK due to a refractive error that is too high, refractive lens exchange (RLE) could be the answer for you!
Here at CLEARVIEW Eye & Laser, we are able to provide this option with different IOL choices depending on your vision needs and the health of your eyes.
WHAT IS REFRACTIVE LENS EXCHANGE?
Refractive lens exchange, or RLE, is a non-laser procedure that replaces the natural lens of the eye with a clear implant or IOL (intraocular lens) that is designed to correct your prescription. RLE is performed in much the same way as cataract surgery but is done specifically for refractive errors as opposed to removing a cataract (cloudy lens). RLE is commonly performed in patients over 45 who have higher levels or hyperopia (farsightedness), myopia (nearsightedness), astigmatism, and may have presbyopia. RLE is a permanent replacement of your natural lens and designed to last the rest of your life. This also eliminates the possibility of having a cataract later in life.
Refractive Lens Exchange: The Procedure
The refractive lens exchange is quick and painless, and the procedure usually takes about 15 minutes per eye. Each eye is done separately about 2 weeks apart. RLE is performed under local or topical anesthetic in our outpatient surgery center. Most patients notice an improvement in vision within 24 hours after surgery. Final results of RLE often take up to several weeks, and you may notice fluctuating vision, halos or glare, and have a “scratchy” sensation during your healing process. You should be able to return to work the following day from surgery and resume all normal activities within 2 weeks.
What are the intraocular lens (IOL) options?
There are multiple options for the IOL (Intraocular lens) that is placed into your eye including:- Monofocal IOLs help your eyes focus at either distance or near. This is the most basic lens option, providing clear vision for a single distance type (near, intermediate, or far).
- Toric IOLs are for patients with astigmatism, a problem that means your lens is irregularly shaped.
- Multifocal IOLs helps patients see better at both distance and near. It provides correction across multiple distances at fixed points.
- Symfony IOL is a premium lens that is the first and only Extended Depth of Focus lens providing patients a FULL RANGE of continuous high quality vision while also minimizing the effects of presbyopia by helping patients focus at near. Also available is the Symfony Toric IOL – for patients with astigmatism.
It’s very important that you discuss these options with your ophthalmologist so that together you can choose the best IOL for YOUR eyes.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS?
Refractive lens exchange is performed essentially the same way as cataract surgery, and possible complications are similar to that of cataract surgery. Generally this procedure is considered to be quite safe and effective for patients who are appropriate candidates, but all surgery has some degree of risk.
Possible refractive lens exchange risks and complications can include:
- Retinal detachment, especially in extremely nearsighted people
- Dislocated IOL
- Increased eye pressure (ocular hypertension)
- Infection or bleeding inside the eye
- Droopy eyelid (ptosis)
- Glare, halos and blurry vision from multifocal IOLs
We will discuss these and other risks of eye surgery with you prior to the procedure.
When your vision and eye health matter, discover great care from a board-certified ophthalmologist at CLEARVIEW Eye & Laser. Call 206.431.9600 in Burien or 206.937.9600 in Seattle. We also welcome patients from Kent, Renton, Vashon Island and surrounding areas.
