What You Should Know About Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
What Is RLE?
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a surgical procedure commonly used to treat presbyopia, hyperopia (farsightedness), and other refractive errors. In RLE, the eye's natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to improve vision, unlike LASIK or PRK which reshape the cornea.
RLE is identical to modern cataract surgery. Both operations involve replacing the natural lens with an IOL. The only difference is that cataract surgery is performed mainly to correct blur or light scatter caused by a misty natural lens, whereas RLE is performed to reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses.
In Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), different types of intraocular lenses (IOLs) can be used to replace the eye's natural lens and provide vision correction. The three main types of IOLs used in RLE are monofocal, extended depth of focus (EDOF), and multifocal.
Monofocal IOLS provide clear vision at a single focal distance, and are an excellent choice for individuals who prioritise clear distance vision. EDOF IOLS are designed to provide a broader range of focus and offer clear vision at multiple distances, including distance, intermediate, and sometimes near vision. Multifocal IOLS allow for clear vision at several distances simultaneously and by using advanced optics to distribute incoming light, they enable clear vision across a range of distances.
How Does The RLE Procedure Work?
Your ophthalmologist will conduct a comprehensive eye exam to assess your candidacy for RLE and determine the most suitable intraocular lens for your needs. RLE is typically performed on an outpatient basis under local or topical anaesthesia. During the procedure, the natural lens is removed and replaced with the selected intraocular lens.
The procedure itself is swift, as it lasts for only 10 to 15 minutes per eye.
Following the treatment, patients may experience minor discomfort or temporary changes in vision, but these usually subside within a few days. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days and more rigorous activities like exercise within a month. During your aftercare appointments, your optometrist will be able to advise you when it is safe to take up these activities again.
Benefits of RLE
RLE is particularly beneficial for individuals in their late 40s or older who are experiencing presbyopia, or those who have a glasses prescription higher than the normal range for laser eye surgery.
By replacing the natural lens with a multifocal or accommodating IOL, RLE can provide clear vision at multiple distances, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses. Statistics show that 4 in 5 patients get to be completely free of glasses after RLE.
Tangible advantages of this procedure include:
- Freedom from visual aids: RLE can provide clear vision at various distances, reducing or even eliminating the need for corrective eyewear.
- Multifunctional treatment: RLE can address not only presbyopia but also hyperopia, myopia, and astigmatism, providing comprehensive vision correction. RLE eliminates the need for cataract surgery in later life, and it is often preferred to laser vision correction for patients in the retirement age group in whom the early stages of cataract formation are often already present.
- Long-lasting results: The artificial intraocular lens used in RLE is designed to last a lifetime, providing stable vision correction for years to come.
- Quick recovery: Most patients experience a rapid recovery after RLE, with minimal discomfort and a swift return to daily activities.
Taking the decision to have RLE surgery should leave you with vastly improved vision and the ability to see things much more clearly and in greater focus.
How Optimax Revolutionises Eye Care With Its RLE Procedure
We’re pleased to say that 95% of people who rely on Optimax for RLE come away having achieved driving standard vision or better. The risk of infection after this procedure occurs in less than 1 in 1,000 people (0.1%), and you will be subject to careful checks both before and after your RLE surgery, so you can rest assured that you’re in the very safest hands with us here at Optimax.
We only use the best phaco machines available. All manufacturers use world-class technology, providing high-quality outcomes.
At Optimax, we don't vary our prices according to prescription. We've made it simple; our lens surgery costs are fixed so there are no surprises. Our RLE surgery costs between £3,495 per eye (£6,990 for both eyes) and £3,995 per eye (£7,990 for both eyes), depending on the type of lens needed. We also provide the option for you to pay for your lens surgery on finance and spread the expense across a period ranging from 10 to 48 months.
After your treatment, we will provide you with drops to keep your eyes hydrated, reduce discomfort, and help with the healing process. We offer up to one year of free aftercare, which includes a number of appointments as we continue to check on your progress and recovery. Your first visit will take place a day or two after the procedure, with another scheduled in for a week or so later. We’ll also ask you to come back in around 4-6 weeks down the line and, if everything seems satisfactory, you will be discharged after 3-6 months.
If you have any questions regarding the RLE surgery, or eye care in general, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with us. We are more than happy to discuss queries with you over the phone (0800 093 1110) or email (enquiry@optimax.co.uk).