Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) also called Clear Lens Exchange (CLE). Refractive Lens Exchange is a surgical procedure that can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses for patients over the age of 40, and can potentially correct nearsightedness, Farsightedness, and even Presbyopia!! Unlike other refractive procedures that change the shape of the cornea such as LASIK or PRK. RLE corrects vision by replacing the eye's natural, crystalline lens with an intraocular lens (IOL). Refractive Lens Exchange is becomming increasingly popular because it can treat a wide range of vision errors and has a low complication rate. In Some cases, RLE can be a better alternative to other Refractive Procedures especially in patients with high degrees of nearsightedness, farsightedness, have early cataract formation, or individuals who want to treat presbyopia.
AcrySof® ReSTOR® IOL
Freedom. See it in your eyes.
Introducing a breakthrough in vision surgery. Now there's a revolutionary new way to potentially leave your glasses behind – introducing the AcrySof® ReSTOR® intraocular lens (IOL), a breakthrough in vision surgery. AcrySof® ReSTOR® has been uniquely designed to improve vision at all distances – up close, far away and everything in-between – giving cataract patients their best chance to live free of glasses.
Conditions of the Aging Eye
As we grow older, our bodies mature and change naturally. Within the aging eye, these changes often develop into conditions that impact the quality of your vision. But if you're experiencing age-related visual problems, don't give up – with successful treatment, it may be possible to have clearer, brighter and sharper vision than you've had for a long, long time.
Some common problems with aging eyes:
Cataracts – A cataract is a change in the clarity, or a "clouding," of the lens in your eye. Your crystalline lens, which is made mostly of protein and water, can become clouded enough to prevent light and images from reaching the retina. A cataract can be the reason sharp images become blurred and seeing things at night becomes more difficult. More than half of all Americans age 65 and older have a cataract¹, and cataracts are the leading cause of treatable blindness. For more on cataract treatment, read about cataract surgery.
Presbyopia – As people enter their 40s, they may experience blurred vision when performing everyday "close-up" tasks such as reading, sewing or working at the computer. This condition, called presbyopia, occurs as the lens in the eye becomes less flexible, and the muscles controlling the lens weaken. This is why some people need reading glasses or need to hold objects farther away to see them.
What to Expect on Surgery Day
The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis and only takes about 15-20 minutes! Upon arrival for your surgery, you will be given a local anesthetic to numb your eye during the procedure. The skin around your eye will be thoroughly cleaned, and sterile coverings will be placed around your eye to keep the surgical area clean during the procedure. Your eye will be held open with an eyelid holder so that you will not have to worry about keeping your eye open during the procedure. Under an operating microscope, your doctor will create a small incision on the eye. The natural lens is gently fragmented and removed by the use of ultrasound (called phacoemulsification). . Then a new Intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted to replace the natural lens that was removed. Thanks to new technology, we are now able to offer several different types of Lens Implants to fit your visualy needs. Your Surgeon will determine which type of IOL is best for you.
After Surgery
After the procedure, you'll be given a short time to rest. Then, the very same day, you can go home. Within the next 24 hours, your doctor will probably want to see you for a follow up. Drops will be prescribed to guard against infection and to help your eyes heal. For a few days, you may need to wear a clear shield, especially at night, to prevent you from rubbing your eye.