There are plenty of options for advanced vision correction treatment available today. Laser surgery, artificial lenses, and other techniques and approaches have allowed us to restore patient vision and improve the eyesight of countless people in the RGV.
Some patients may find that laser eye surgery isn't right for them, which leaves them wondering about alternative eye care procedures. One such alternative is refractive lens exchange, which we'd like to go over right now.
What Is Refractive Lens Exchange?
Also known as clear lens replacement surgery and clear lens extraction, refractive lens exchange (RLE) is a process in which the natural lens of the eye is removed and replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL). This can greatly enhance and improve the quality of a person's vision.
Vision Issues Refractive Lens Exchange Can Treat
Refractive lens exchange is performed on people who suffer from refractive errors (nearsightedness/myopia, farsightedness/hyperopia, astigmatism) and presbyopia (age-related farsightedness). Typically, however, the procedure is most ideal for people who suffer from extreme farsightedness or from presbyopia. People who are nearsighted may be recommended laser vision correction surgery instead.
Following refractive lens exchange, patients will be less dependent on glasses and bifocals to see properly.
General Candidacy for Refractive Lens Exchange
Good candidates for refractive lens exchange are people who suffer from refractive errors or presbyopia. They should be in good overall health and not suffer from health conditions that may make the procedure a risky endeavor. It's important that candidates for refractive lens exchange understand all of the risks and benefits involved with the procedure and have realistic expectations about what can be achieved.
An Alternative to Laser Eye Surgery
Refractive lens exchange is an excellent option for people who are unable to undergo laser eye surgery. This may be due to dry eye syndrome, previous eye injuries, issues with corneal thickness, and so forth. Refractive lens exchange makes great vision without glasses or contact a reality for plenty of people.
Refractive Lens Exchange for Farsightedness vs. Nearsightedness
As noted above, the refractive lens exchange is more ideal for people who suffer from farsightedness than those who suffer from nearsightedness. Laser eye surgery will be recommended for people who are nearsighted whenever possible. If a nearsighted person does undergo refractive lens exchange, there is a higher risk of retinal detachment and other issues related to vision and wellness.
Age and Refractive Lens Exchange
Refractive lens exchange can be performed on adults of all ages. In fact, since the procedure is an option for treating presbyopia, the surgery can be used to help people from middle age into their golden years. For younger patients with refractive error, it's important to discuss the right age for the surgery with their eye doctor.
Is Refractive Lens Exchange Right for Me?
A consultation will be necessary to determine if refractive lens exchange is the ideal solution for a patient's needs. During this consultation, we can discuss the risks and benefits of surgery as well as other concerns that may be on your mind.
Learn More About Refractive Lens Exchange
If you would like more information about refractive lens exchange and whether or not it's ideal for you, be sure to contact our advanced eye care center today. Our team looks forward to your visit and discussing these matters in much greater detail.
