Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
What is RLE?
If you’ve been told you’re not a candidate for LASIK, SMILE or PRK and are over 45, Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) might be a great option for you. This procedure, like laser eye surgery, can significantly reduce or eliminate your need for glasses or contact lenses, helping you enjoy clearer vision at every distance.
During RLE, the eye's natural lens is removed and replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL) that is specifically chosen to correct vision issues, such as extreme farsightedness or presbyopia (age-related farsightedness). This process can also significantly reduce your reliance on reading glasses or bifocals.
Determining RLE Eligibility
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is designed for individuals who are not candidates for LASIK or PRK, or are seeking a long-term solution for clearer vision.
The best way to find out if RLE is right for you is to come in for a free, no-obligation consultation.
General requirements for good candidates include:
- Being over the age of 45
- Having mild, moderate, or severe nearsightedness, farsightedness, with or without astigmatism
- Maintaining generally healthy eyes
Find Out if You're a Candidate for RLE with Our Quick Quiz
Benefits of RLE
No Future
Cataract Surgery
Eliminates the need for cataract surgery in the future by replacing the eye’s natural lens.
Clearer Vision
at All Distances
Can enhance both distance and near vision, reducing the need for reading glasses or bifocals.
Reduced Dependence
on Glasses and Contacts
Many patients enjoy greater visual freedom, significantly enhancing their daily lives.
The RLE Procedure
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a procedure similar to cataract surgery, which is the most commonly performed eye surgery worldwide.
1
Before the Procedure
To prepare for the surgery, eye drops are used to dilate your pupils. This step may cause temporary light sensitivity and blurred vision. Additional eye drops are then administered to numb your eyes, ensuring a relatively painless experience during the procedure.
2
Simple 4-Step Procedure
- A laser is used to break up the lens into smaller pieces and make some corneal incisions.
- Advanced ultrasound technology and a precision instrument called a phacoemulsifier break up and remove the natural crystalline lens.
- A foldable artificial lens is inserted through the same incision.
- The new lens unfolds and seamlessly replaces the natural lens.
This minimally invasive procedure requires no stitches, allowing the eye to heal quickly. Each eye takes approximately 15 minutes to complete.
3
Recovery
Most patients experience a smooth recovery and can resume daily activities the very next day. Some mild discomfort is normal and resolves quickly. Gradual vision improvement occurs over the following weeks, with clearer vision often achieved within days. Follow-up appointments will monitor progress.
"I cant say enough positive things about Dr. Goel and their entire staff. Do yourself a favor and schedule your appointment today"
Brenda Clukey
RLE Results
The need for eyeglasses or contact lenses after RLE depends on the type of IOL used. Monofocal IOLs provide excellent vision and contrast sensitivity and focus at only one distance, which may necessitate glasses for close-up tasks.
Alternatively, multifocal and IOLs allow for clearer vision at various distances, effectively addressing both presbyopia and distance vision issues.
Take the Next Step Toward Freedom from Glasses and Contacts
Have questions about Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) or other vision correction options? Our team is ready to support you every step of the way.