At What Age Can I Get a Refractive Lens Exchange? 

When you think about correcting your vision, you might be most familiar with laser eye surgery like LASIK or SMILE. Refractive lens exchange offers another option that replaces your natural lenses with artificial ones. These artificial lenses improve your vision. They will never experience issues like presbyopia or cataracts, making them an increasingly popular option. 

What is Refractive Lens Exchange?

Refractive lens exchange (RLE) is a form of surgical vision correction. It involves removing the eye’s natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This procedure is typically used to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism, and it can also treat cataracts and presbyopia. 

<em>individual results may vary<em>

At What Age Can I Get Refractive Lens Exchange?

While some people think of lens replacement as a treatment for cataracts associated with older people, RLE makes an excellent option for almost anyone seeking vision correction. Refractive lens exchange is a safe and effective procedure for most individuals over 18. It is particularly beneficial for individuals who are not good candidates for LASIK or other refractive surgeries due to thin corneas, high prescriptions, or other factors.

How Does Refractive Lens Exchange Work?

During RLE, Dr. Senekal makes a small incision that allows him to access the lens. He will create an opening in the outer capsule of the natural lens. The natural lens is then removed using an ultrasonic suction probe. The corrective lens implant is inserted and positioned securely within the natural lens capsule. Dr. Senekal typically uses foldable lens implants inserted through tiny incisions and opened inside the eye. The entire procedure is quick and takes approximately 15 minutes.

What is Recovery Like After Refractive Lens Exchange?

Most people will notice improved vision immediately after the procedure. Most people return to their usual activities within a week. Minor irritation and glare around lights will fade over the following weeks as your eyes heal. Use your provided eye drops as instructed to ensure proper healing.

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How Long Do the Results of Refractive Lens Exchange Last?

The artificial lenses used in RLE never need to be removed. They will continue to correct your vision throughout your life. Unlike natural lenses, the lenses used in this procedure will not develop the age-related changes that cause presbyopia and cataracts. Unlike laser eye surgery, which will fade in effectiveness over time, RLE results are made to last. 

Am I a Good Candidate for Refractive Lens Exchange?

Most adults with healthy eyes make good candidates for refractive lens exchange. Ideal candidates want an effective, long-lasting solution to their vision problems. You may be a good candidate for RLE even if you are not a good candidate for procedures like LASIK. Only a full eye examination can determine whether this procedure can provide your desired results.

I absolutely loved my experience with VisionMax. They have the most incredible staff, from start to finish they were so helpful and informative! I was nervous and Dr.Senekal talked me through the whole procedure, making me feel so comforted. It was over before I knew it (quite literally)! I cannot recommend going to VisionMax enough!
bailey l.

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To learn more about PRK eye surgery, please schedule your consultation by either filling out the form on this page or by calling (780) 452-4111. We look forward to helping you!

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