Are you tired of relying on glasses or contact lenses to see clearly? Do you wish there was a way to correct your vision permanently?
Refractive Lens Exchange might be the solution you’ve been looking for. At Northwest Eye, we are proud to offer this innovative option for patients looking to gain greater visual freedom.
What is Refractive Lens Exchange?
Refractive Lens Exchange, also called RLE, is a procedure that replaces the eye’s natural lens with an artificial one. The new artificial lens can compensate for your eye’s refractive error, making your vision clearer and sharper, and reducing your dependence on visual aids.
RLE can treat common refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It can also be a great option for those with age-related vision changes, such as presbyopia.
Since the natural lens is removed during RLE, you will also not have to worry about developing cataracts later in life.
How Does the Procedure Work?
On the day of the procedure, your eye doctor will start by numbing the surface of your eyes to ensure you are comfortable. Then, they will make a tiny opening in your cornea, which is the clear structure at the front of your eye.
Through this opening, your eye doctor will break up your natural lens into tiny pieces and remove them. Next, they will insert the new artificial IOL and position it properly.
The artificial lens used in RLE is customized to correct your specific refractive error. It helps focus light properly onto the retina so you can see clearly, similar to how glasses and contacts work.
In most cases, the RLE procedure is quick, taking about fifteen minutes per eye. The tiny opening on the surface of your eye will heal naturally during your recovery.
What is Recovery Like After Refractive Lens Exchange?
After RLE, your eye might feel a little scratchy or sensitive to light, but this should improve within a few days. You’ll need to use any prescribed eye drops to help your eyes heal and prevent infection.
It’s important to follow your eye doctor’s instructions and avoid rubbing your eyes or doing strenuous activities for a while. Most people can return to their usual activities within a few days, but it might take a few weeks for your vision to fully stabilize.
Your eye doctor will schedule follow-up appointments to check on your progress and make sure everything is healing well.
How Do I Know If I Am A Candidate For RLE?
To determine if you’re a good candidate for Refractive Lens Exchange, you will need to schedule an appointment with your eye doctor at Northwest Eye, who can assess your individual needs and goals. During your consultation, your eye doctor will perform a comprehensive eye exam to evaluate your eye health and determine if RLE is the best option for you.
They will consider factors such as your age, the severity of your vision problems, and your overall health. It’s important to discuss your expectations and lifestyle needs with your doctor to ensure that RLE aligns with your goals.
If you’re found to be a good candidate, your eye doctor will guide you through the next steps in preparing for the procedure.
Determining the Cost of Refractive Lens Exchange
The cost of RLE can vary depending on factors like the type of artificial lens used and the fees of the surgeon and the clinic. At Northwest Eye Clinic, we offer transparent pricing and can help you understand the costs involved.
When considering the price, it’s essential to consider the long-term benefits of RLE. Many people find that the investment in clearer vision and reduced dependence on glasses or contacts is well worth it.
Our team is here to support you every step of the way, from your initial consultation to your post-operative care.
Do you want to learn more about RLE or determine if you might be a good candidate? Schedule an appointment at Northwest Eye in Minnetonka, MN, today!
