A NEW WAY OF
SEEING WITH Elite RLE
What is the Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)?
Refractive lens exchange, or RLE, can sometimes be the best option for a patient who is not a candidate for one of our other refractive procedures. RLE replaces the eye’s clear natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens to correct vision and achieve sharper focus while reducing the need for reading glasses or bifocals.
Why RLE?
RLE is typically for patients with presbyopia or extreme farsightedness that might not be ideal candidates for LASIK or PRK. RLE may be the most viable option for patients with both presbyopia and moderate to severe hyperopia.
RLE is not for severe farsighted patients – it is for mild to moderate farsighted and nearsighted patients with presbyopia. It can be an alternative for LASIK.
A Doctor You Can Trust
More than anything, we are proud of our team and the relationships that we maintain with all of our patients. Our compassionate, innovative, and experienced team will always be there for you.
We know having an eye care procedure can be a stressful time in your life. Our physicians are here for you every step of the way to answer your questions, make sure you have a relaxing visit, and provide you with the best eye care possible.
The field of eye care is rapidly evolving and our ophthalmologists remain at the cutting edge. ELITE LASIK & Cataract is always at the forefront of the new procedures, and we offer a full scope of advanced technology, diagnostic testing, and treatment.
Refractive Lens Exchange Versus
LASIK and PRK
RLE vs Other Procedures
Although LASIK and PRK are the more popular procedures, refractive lens exchange is a good alternative for many people struggling with refractive errors and dependence on visual aids. In fact, refractive lens exchange may be the better option in many cases because it can correct nearly any degree of farsightedness (instead of only mildly to moderately severe cases) and presbyopia, which LASIK and PRK do not address. Another advantage of RLE is that it eliminates the need for cataract surgery later in life as the artificial lens cannot develop cataracts.
Who It’s Best For
Are You a Candidate for RLE?
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FAQs
What Happens During the Procedure?
RLE is performed on an outpatient basis. Usually, both eyes are treated separately. The procedure itself is nearly identical to cataract surgery, except that RLE replaces a clear lens and cataract surgery replaces a cloudy lens. The eyes are completely numbed to prevent any discomfort during the surgery. A small incision is created in the corner of the eye to access the capsule that holds the lens. An opening is made in the capsule and the lens is carefully removed. Then, an intraocular lens implant (IOL) of the patient’s choosing is carefully positioned in the same capsule that held the natural lens.
What Is the Recovery Like?
Many people experience instant vision improvement after surgery and can resume work as soon as the day after surgery. Patients can expect to resume the rest of their everyday activities, including exercise, within about a week of surgery. They should be careful not to touch their eyes or get sweat, dust or smoke in their eyes for a month after surgery as the eyes heal.
How to Prepare for Your Procedure
Fast After Midnight
Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your procedure. Morning medication can be taken with a small sip of water.
Minimize Your Morning Routine
Wash your face well with soap and water the morning of your procedure but do not wear any makeup, hair products, perfume, aftershave or lotion on the day of your procedure.
Bring a Friend
You’ll need to arrange for someone to bring you in for the procedure and pick you up once the procedure is completed. Your guest is more than welcome to accompany you through your procedure. If they wish, they may watch your procedure live from our “friends and family viewing area.” If your guest chooses not to view the procedure, they may wait in our comfortable lounge or simply return to the center one hour after your arrival time.
Review the Informed Consent Document
Take the time to read the Informed Consent document prior to the day of your procedure. Please do not sign the document until you are with your surgeon on the day of your procedure. Additionally, if you happen to develop a cold sore the week of your surgery, please call us to let us know. For your safety, it may be best to reschedule your procedure if you have a cold sore.
What to Expect Day
of Procedure
Arrive on Time
Plan to arrive at the surgery center two hours before your scheduled time. An Elite LASIK & Cataract Representative will be there to assist you. Do not wear watches or jewelry on your procedure day.
Meet the Surgeon
Meet with Dr. Zeh to review your procedure and the plans for your post-operative care as well as sign consent forms.
Prepare for the Procedure
Receive relaxation medication to reduce your anxiety. Please let our doctors and staff know if you would prefer not to take the relaxation medication.
The Procedure
The procedure takes about 30 minutes per eye. Only numbing eye drops are used as an anesthetic. Our team will make sure you are comfortable and will talk you through the entire process.
After the Procedure
After the procedure, you will be in a recovery room for about 30 minutes. Most patients will be discharged 30 minutes after their procedure. You MUST have someone drive you home after the procedure.
Total office time is approximately 2.5-3 hours.
How Much Does RLE Cost?
Am I a Candidate For RLE?
How Much Does RLE Cost?
Am I a Candidate For RLE?
FAQs
How do I know if I’m a candidate for refractive lens exchange?
The best way to determine whether you are a candidate for refractive lens exchange is to meet with a qualified eye surgeon for a one-on-one consultation. In general, you might be a good candidate if you:
- Have been diagnosed with nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism or presbyopia.
- Do not qualify for LASIK because of the degree of your refractive error.
- Want to reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses or contacts after surgery.
