Much like how there are multiple different ways to treat a headache, there are multiple different types of laser eye surgery to treat vision problems. LASIK is probably the most widely known but LASIK isn’t the best treatment for everyone. For those with stronger prescriptions, usually over the age of 50, Refractive Lens Exchange is a highly effective procedure.
Who Is Recommended For Refractive Lens Exchange
The procedure, designed to result in clearer, sharper vision, can treat both farsightedness and nearsightedness. The surgery is slightly more complex than LASIK or PRK laser eye surgery. Refractive Lens Exchange is usually performed on people with the more advanced vision problems who don’t want to or can’t wear contacts anymore and are tired of wearing glasses.
What Happens During The Surgery?
Refractive Lens Exchange is the same procedure as cataract surgery where we remove the natural lens and replace it with either a clear, toric or multifocal lens depending on the vision correction that the patient wants or that the surgeon recommends.
The benefit of having improved vision, and no need for glasses, outweighs the risks for the vast majority of people especially as this procedure generally provides a long term fix.
Most patients notice improvement immediately afterwards. We would however, recommend allowing a week for full recovery. Healing time for best possible vision outcomes vary for patients but we recommend patience and an eye exam six weeks after surgery. After one week, patients should be able to return to their usual routine, with improved vision.
To find out whether Refractive Lens Replacement is the best procedure for you, contact our laser eye surgery centre to book a free consultation with our eye surgeon, Dr. Boyd.