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Refractive
Lens
Exchange

What is refractive lens exchange?

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), also known as Clear Lens Exchange (CLE) or Lens Replacement Surgery, is a surgical procedure that is similar to cataract surgery but is primarily performed to correct refractive errors in the eye, rather than removing a cloudy lens (cataract). RLE involves replacing the eye's natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to improve vision and reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. 

What are the indications?

Refractive Lens Exchange is often considered in the following situations:

  • Individuals with high degrees of nearsightedness or farsightedness that cannot be adequately corrected with glasses or contact lenses.

  • People who are over the age of 40 and have developed presbyopia (age-related loss of near focusing ability).

  • Those who are not suitable candidates for LASIK, PRK, or other laser vision correction procedures due to thin corneas, unstable prescriptions, or other eye conditions.

What is involved?

Here's how the procedure generally works:

  1. Preoperative Evaluation: Just like with other eye surgeries, a comprehensive eye examination will be conducted to assess your eye health, measure the refractive error (nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism), and determine the appropriate IOL power.

  2. Anaesthesia: RLE is typically performed under local anaesthesia, which means you'll be awake but your eye will be numbed. General anaesthesia might be used in some cases.

  3. Lens Removal and IOL Implantation: Similar to cataract surgery, a small incision is made in the cornea. The natural lens is then removed, and an artificial IOL is inserted in its place. The choice of IOL will depend on your refractive error and visual goals. There are different types of IOLs available, including monofocal, multifocal, and toric IOLs.

  4. Recovery and Follow-up: After the surgery, you'll be given instructions for postoperative care, including using prescribed eye drops and avoiding strenuous activities for a certain period. Follow-up visits will be scheduled to monitor your healing progress and vision improvement.

What are the risks?

RLE can provide a permanent solution to refractive errors and can potentially reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses. However, like any surgery, it carries certain risks, such as infection, inflammation, changes in vision, and complications associated with the IOL. Mr Panthagani will discuss the potential benefits and risks with you to determine if refractive lens exchange is a suitable option for your individual needs and circumstances.

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