Home Services & Procedures Refractive Lens Exchange
Refractive Lens Exchange

Corrects moderate/severe Hyperopia (Farsightedness), Myopia (Nearsightedness) and Astigmatism. It is usually reserved for patients who are over 40 years of age however there are exceptions. This process has been likened to cataract surgery for its similarities. We do not use any lasers, needles or sutures during this procedure.

Advantages of Refractive Lens Exchange.

  • permanent effects
  • maintenance free
  • rapid recovery of vision
  • effective, predictable results

Refractive Lens Exchange Procedure

This procedure is an outpatient procedure which is normally about 20 minutes in duration.

A local anesthetic is given to sedate the eye, so the procedure is virtually painless.

The surgeon will use an instrument to hold your eyelids open. A small incision is made near the cornea. A probe is used to remove the natural lens. Through the same incision a new lens implant will be inserted in the eye where it will stay for the rest of your life.

The procedure is complete and your healing process begins.  You will receive an after-care package with prescribed medication (eye drops) to prevent infection and inflammation.

Possible complications

As with any surgery, there are possible complications to Refractive Lens Exchange. Because of its similarities to cataract surgery the possible complications are the same.  They include retinal detachment, infection, hemorrhage, increased floaters, glare/halo effect, glaucoma, uveitis and loss of vision.  These are all uncommon and most can be effectively treated if they occur.  Your surgeon will be happy to discuss these with you.