Jump to Section
What is Refractive Lens Exchange?
Refractive lens exchange, also known as clear lens extraction, is a procedure in which the natural clear lens of the eye is replaced with an artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens implant or IOL. This procedure is an alternative to LASIK or other surgeries which correct vision and allow patients to forgo glasses or contact lenses. In the case of refractive lens exchange, patients typically reduce their need for reading glasses or bifocals. Another advantage is never needing cataract surgery later in life.
Candidates for Clear Lens Extraction
Clear lens extraction is often a good option for patients with presbyopia or high hyperopia (commonly known as farsightedness) who are not good candidates for LASIK, PRK, or other corrective vision surgeries. For example, patients who rely on reading glasses may benefit from clear lens extraction surgery.
The Refractive Lens Exchange Procedure
Refractive lens exchange is performed as an outpatient procedure. Anesthetic eye drops are first placed in the eyes to prevent any discomfort during the procedure. Your ophthalmologist will remove the natural lens of the eye and replace it with a corrective IOL. The procedure can be completed in about 15 minutes per eye, and patients often have one eye operated on at a time. There are various implants used.The most advanced implant currently available is the light adjustable lens (LAL,www.Rxsight.com ). Boston Vision is the first to offer this implant in MA.
Recovery After Clear Lens Extraction
After surgery, most of our patients do not need drops. Your ophthalmologist may give you something to cover the eye in order to protect it. Recovery from cataract surgery is relatively quick and simple. Most patients notice an immediate improvement in your vision from the surgery. Most patients notice an immediate improvement in your vision from the surgery and return to most activities of daily living the next day. Intraocular lenses are intended to last a lifetime, and there is minimal risk of your vision regressing through the years after your surgery.
Schedule an Appointment
To learn more about refractive lens exchange and to see if you are a good candidate for the procedure, schedule an appointment at Boston Vision. To schedule your appointment, book an appointment online or give us a call at 617-202-2020.
Refractive/Clear Lens Exchange is available at our Brookline, Milford, Medford, Wellesley, Burlington, Woburn and Andover locations.
