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December 04, 2024
Refractive lens exchange surgery corrects vision problems by removing the eye’s natural lens and replacing it with a biocompatible intraocular lens (IOL).
An OOMC eye specialist may recommend this procedure to improve your vision. Read on to learn more about refractive lens exchange surgery.
Your eye surgeon may recommend refractive lens exchange surgery (RLES) if you are not a good candidate for other vision correction procedures, such as LASIK, and wish to reduce your use of glasses or contacts.
You may be a good candidate for RLES if:
If you’re unsure if you’re a good candidate for RLES, your eye doctor can perform an exam and determine if you’re a good fit.
On the day of your RLES, you’ll arrive at the surgical center accompanied by someone who can drive you home and to your follow-up appointment. You will go home from surgery the same day.
Your eye surgeon will give you eye drops to numb the surface of your eye. If you are feeling anxious, they can also provide some medication to help you relax. You will be awake during surgery, but your eyes will not be able to see much.
Your surgeon will use a laser or small blade to make an incision in your eye near where the sclera and cornea meet. Then, your natural lens will be removed, and an IOL will be implanted in its place. The entire procedure will take about 30 minutes.
RLES can treat several kinds of refractive errors, which may help you reduce how often you wear glasses. Many people no longer need glasses after RLES at all.
Since RLES removes the natural lens in your eye, you will no longer be at risk for developing cataracts. Cataracts cannot form on IOLs, only the natural lens in your eye.
You may be unable to drive for several days after your procedure. Your eye surgeon will provide you with antibiotics and recovery care instructions you’re to follow and will let you know when you can swim, drive, and return to work.
You will likely follow up with your primary eye care doctor as you heal. Follow your doctor’s instructions regarding how long to take antibiotics or anti-inflammatory eye drops.
It takes around eight weeks for your eyes to heal completely, although you can return to normal activities within a few days or weeks. Your doctor will let you know when your eyes are healed enough to resume a regular schedule.
If you want to improve your vision and reduce reliance on glasses or contact lenses, speak with an eye surgeon at OOMC about refractive lens exchange surgery. Your eye doctor can determine if you are a good candidate and give you all the information you need to make an informed decision about your eye care. Contact us to schedule a consultation today.
