Vision Correction · Cedar Park & Austin, TX
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
A proven surgical alternative to LASIK — ideal for patients who are not candidates for laser vision correction or who want to eliminate the possibility of cataracts in the future.
About the Procedure
What is Refractive Lens Exchange?
A Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is virtually identical to cataract surgery — a refractive surgery where the natural lens in the eye is removed and replaced with an artificial lens implant to alleviate refractive error. The only real difference is, in this case you are replacing a clear lens instead of one that is cloudy due to a cataract.
Refractive Lens Exchange is also referred to as a refractive lensectomy, and is most commonly used for middle-aged and older farsighted (hyperopic) patients with higher levels of refraction than can be effectively treated with LASIK, LASEK, or PRK.
This procedure has been around for many years, and since the central cornea remains untouched during the surgery, patients with a thin cornea, dry eyes, or even minor cornea problems can really benefit from the surgery.
Is RLE Right for You?
Ideal Candidates for RLE
High Prescriptions
Middle-aged and older farsighted (hyperopic) patients with higher levels of refraction than can be effectively treated with LASIK, LASEK, or PRK.
Thin or Irregular Corneas
Since the central cornea remains untouched, patients with a thin cornea, dry eyes, or even minor cornea problems can benefit from the surgery.
Presbyopia
Patients who experience lens inflexibility can correct both farsightedness and presbyopia by replacing the natural lens with a multifocal lens.
Cataract Prevention
Because the natural lens is removed, there is virtually no chance of developing cataracts in the future.
Replacement Lenses
Intraocular Lens Options
The same premium intraocular lens (IOL) options available for cataract surgery are also available for Refractive Lens Exchange. Dr. Restivo will help determine which lens type is best suited to your vision goals and lifestyle.
For more information about available replacement lens options, please visit our Intraocular Lens Implants (IOLs) page. To learn more about the detailed procedure itself, please visit our Laser Cataract Surgery page.
Find Out If RLE Is Right for You
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Restivo and get a thorough evaluation of your candidacy for Refractive Lens Exchange or other vision correction procedures.