Lens Replacement

Lens replacement, also known as Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) or clear lens extraction, offers a permanent alternative to glasses or contact lenses for those individuals typically over 50.

This allows you to experience rejuvenated eyes with improved vision for a combination of reading, intermediate and distance vision without the need for visual aids such as reading glasses, varifocals, or contact lenses. Vision Care Clinic’s experienced team of surgeons perform advanced lens replacement surgeries, utilising cutting-edge diagnostic technology to calculate the replacement intraocular elens (IOL’s). This procedure not only restores clear vision but also addresses other vision concerns, such as astigmatism or presbyopia. With a bespoke treatment plan, Vision Care Clinic ensures that patients receive the highest level of care and achieve improved visual acuity, ultimately enhancing their overall quality of life.

FAQ

What is Lens Replacement (RLE)?

Lens replacement surgery is performed like a cataract procedure, where the eye’s natural crystalline lens is replaced with a pre-calculated artificial intra-ocular lens (IOL).

Many types of lenses are available, and our surgeons will work with you to identify the right one for you, depending on your clinical and lifestyle needs.

At Vision Care Clinic, toric lenses are included to correct astigmatism, if needed and achieve optimal results.

Enhanced Procedure – to correct distance and intermediate vision to reduced day to day glasses dependency.

Premium Procedure – corrects vision at all distances for maximum visual freedom

Complex Procedures – for eyes with extreme prescriptions or complex ophthalmic issues

Who is lens replacement for?

Lens replacement, or refractive lens exchange, can correct short-sight (myopia), long-sight (hyperopia), astigmatism, and presbyopia (the need for reading glasses).

Lens replacement is recommended if you:

Are older than 40 years old*
Have a high prescription
Are experiencing difficulties reading
Frustrated by varifocal glasses or contact lenses
Have early signs of natural lens changes
Want a permanent vision solution

How is lens replacement performed?

Lens replacement is an outpatient procedure performed in our operating theatre. With each eye typically taking around 10-15 minutes to perform.

Numbing the eye: anaesthetic drops are given to numb the eye completely.
A small opening is created to access the eyes’ natural lens.
The natural crystalline lens is removed using a small specialist ultrasound instrument.
The new lens is inserted: the natural lens is replaced with the pre-calculated, artificial intra-ocular lens (IOL).
No stitches are required: the small opening self-seals within days as the visual clarity improves.

How will I know if I am a suitable candidate for lens replacement?

All eye surgery methods require a thorough and detailed initial eye examination to determine whether you are a suitable candidate.

You and your doctor will choose the best option for your clinical and lifestyle vision needs.

* Lens replacement is typically suitable for people aged 40 and over. Long-sighted people are an exception, and surgery may be considered at a younger age. Contact us for more information.