Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is essentially the same procedure as modern cataract surgery. Both involve replacing the natural lens with an intraocular lens (IOL). The key distinction lies in their purpose: cataract surgery primarily addresses blurry vision or light scatter caused by a cloudy natural lens, while RLE aims to minimize dependence on glasses or contact lenses.
Almost any level of myopia (short sight) or hyperopia (long sight) can be corrected by RLE, and IOLs with built in astigmatism correction are available. You may not be suitable for multifocal IOL implantation if you have pre-existing problems with your eye health.
Complications can arise in any type of eye surgery, either during the procedure or throughout the healing process. These issues may lead to permanent and significant vision loss in the affected eye, rendering vision worse than the standard required for driving and uncorrectable with glasses or contact lenses. More commonly, problems can be corrected with changes in medication or additional surgery. Typically, these additional operations feel like the original surgery and have a similar recovery period.
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is typically carried out using anaesthetic eye drops, with the option of a relaxing injection in the back of your hand if needed. Additional anaesthetic may be applied around the back of the eye to minimize excessive eye movement. A spring clip gently holds the eyelids apart, allowing you to blink safely during the procedure. During the surgery, your surgeon will use a microscope for precision while you lie down beneath a surgical tent that provides fresh air. A sticky plastic drape is applied around your eye, securing your eyelashes out of the way. To prepare your eye, strong pupil-dilating drugs are administered as drops or as a small pellet placed under the lower eyelid.
The essential steps of the procedure include: