Refractive Lens Exchange in Bensalem, PA
What is Refractive Lens Exchange?
Our team is delighted to perform refractive lens exchange (RLE) for patients in Bensalem, Philadelphia, Huntingdon Valley, PA, and Hamilton, NJ. RLE is virtually the same procedure as cataract surgery, though the patient doesn’t have cataracts. With RLE, the existing lens is exchanged with an artificial intraocular lens, or IOL, to eliminate or significantly reduce certain kinds of refractive errors and maximize focusing power and sharp vision at different distances.
RLE is often an exciting treatment method for people who have very severe levels of myopia or hyperopia and who might not be ideal candidates for other specific refractive vision procedures. Also, one amazing bonus is that an intraocular lens isn’t vulnerable to cataracts so RLE eases that worry. Contact IC Laser Eye Care or Suburban Eye Associates soon to schedule an exam at a nearby location, and discover whether RLE is right for you.
What is RLE surgery like?
IC Laser Eye Care and Suburban Eye Associates conduct RLE as an outpatient procedure that, for most patients, is completed in about 10 – 20 minutes. However, if you plan to receive RLE for each eye, you should wait about a week between surgeries.
Before your surgery, our team will administer special eye drops to numb the eyes thoroughly and often a gentle anesthetic to enhance relaxation when needed. Our team will create a tiny incision in the corneal tissue and use specialized technology to delicately dissolve the patient’s existing lens and take it out. Then, they will put the refractive IOL in its place using the existing tiny removal incision, which will heal quickly without sutures.
What are the benefits of Refractive Lens Exchange?
Many patients opt for RLE for several compelling reasons. Recognized for its vision correction capabilities, RLE offers a quick recovery period and minimal discomfort. Our team tailors a unique plan to achieve your desired outcomes. Benefits of undergoing RLE include:
- Enhanced sharpness and clarity of vision
- Better vision in low-light conditions
- Decreased likelihood of experiencing glare, halos, and starbursts
- Significantly reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses post-procedure
- Fewer side effects in comparison to alternative options
- A marked improvement in the visual quality of life and overall eye health
Refractive Lens Exchange FAQ
How long does it take to notice an improvement in vision after refractive lens exchange?
Most patients notice an improvement in their vision within a few days after RLE. However, full stabilization of vision can take several weeks as the eye heals and adjusts to the new intraocular lens. During this time, it’s normal to experience some fluctuations in vision, such as halos or glare, especially at night. These symptoms usually decrease as the eyes adapt to the new lenses.
Can RLE address presbyopia?
Yes, RLE is particularly effective for treating presbyopia, which is the age-related loss of near vision. By replacing the natural lens with a multifocal or accommodating IOL, RLE can restore the ability to focus on close objects without the need for reading glasses. This makes RLE an attractive option for individuals over the age of 40 who are experiencing presbyopia along with other refractive errors.
How long do the results of refractive lens exchange last?
The results of RLE are permanent, as the artificial intraocular lens does not degrade over time like the natural lens can. This means that patients typically enjoy long-lasting clear vision without the need for further corrective surgery. Additionally, because the artificial lens cannot develop cataracts, RLE also eliminates the future need for cataract surgery.
Signs You May Need Refractive Lens Exchange Treatment
Our Team 06/22/2025
Learn the signs you may need refractive lens exchange in Bensalem, PA, and explore how it can address age-related vision and refractive errors.