Procedures
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
Looking to eliminate your reliance on glasses or contacts? Book a consultation and find out if refractive lens exchange could be the solution for you.
Replacing Your Lens
With refractive lens exchange, also called lens replacement eye surgery, or Dysfunctional Lens Exchange, your natural lens is removed and replaced by a clear lens with a different lens power to correct your vision. The procedure is often used for people who want to reduce or eliminate their need for glasses and contacts who typically have a very early cataract or no cataract at all.
Condition Treated
Nearsightedness
Myopia, also known as nearsightedness, is a common type of refractive error where near objects appear clearly, but far objects appear blurry.
Farsightedness
Hyperopia, also known as farsightedness, affects nearly one in four people. Those with hyperopia can see far objects more clearly than near objects, but if someone has a high degree of farsightedness, everything is blurry, both near and far.
Astigmatism
Astigmatism causes your vision to be blurred at both near and far distances. It occurs when your cornea is shaped more like a football than a basketball.
Presbyopia
People with early presbyopia often notice they need more light to read, and have to hold reading material at arm’s length to focus. Eventually, presbyopia results in the need for reading glasses or bifocals/progressive lenses for all near vision.
A condition that occurs after the age of 40. It is when reading glasses become necessary for reading when wearing your contact lenses, or bifocal glasses are needed
Client Testimonial
“I can see very well in the distance and up close and it fits my active lifestyle very well. I van now go surfing and backpacking without the inconvenience of contacts or glasses!”
Common Questions About Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
What conditions does refractive lens exchange treat?
If you have nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism, even extreme prescriptions, and are over 40 years of age experiencing some degree of presbyopia, RLE could be your best course of treatment.
When should I consider refractive lens exchange?
You should consider RLE:
- If you are dependent on reading glasses or bifocals for your near tasks
- If you have a high level of farsightedness
- If you have been diagnosed with early lens changes and feel that the quality of your vision has declined, but, do not as yet have a significant cataract
How soon will I be able to resume normal activities?
Although you will need a ride home from the procedure, you will be able to resume most normal activities within a few days—with most patients able to resume driving as well.
What does the lens feel like when it’s implanted?
Patients are unable to feel the IOL Intraocular lens implants have been performed for more than 50 years.
Your Nearest Center
Eye Doctors of Washington
301-804-1341 1016 16th Street NW Lower Level 100Washington, DC 20036
Schedule Your Exam or Procedure Today!
