Refractive Lens Exchange

Refractive Lens Exchange, also called Clear Lens Extraction, replaces the natural lens with a multifocal intraocular lens (IOL) in patients wishing to correct high farsightedness, high nearsightedness or presbyopia without undergoing a corneal modification procedure such as LASIK.  Patients can choose from a wide range of IOLs in order to achieve the best possible vision for their individual eyes.

The refractive lens exchange procedure is the same as that used in cataract surgery; the only difference is that refractive lens exchange is performed to achieve refractive correction rather than cataract removal. Refractive lens exchange involves a rapid recovery and offers patients dramatic improvement in vision quality.

After surgery, patients enjoy clearer vision and greater focusing power almost immediately. Many eliminate or significantly reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses, and vision remains stable over time.  This procedure also prevents the patient from developing cataracts in the future.

Candidates for Refractive Lens Exchange
  • Want to reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses or contacts
  • Are over 50 years old
  • Have high myopia (nearsightedness), high hyperopia (farsightedness), or presbyopia, with or without cataract
  • Have early symptoms of cataracts

Although refractive lens exchange is considered safe for most patients, there are certain risks associated with any kind of procedure.  You can discuss these risks, along with the benefits of this procedure, before deciding whether or not it is right for you.