Refractive Lens Exchange FAQs

If you decide to choose multifocal IOLs, each lens allows you to see at near, intermediate, and far distances.

Presbyopia-correcting lenses allow you to see distance and in the near/intermediate range in the same eye. They can be used in different combinations to increase your range of vision and reduce your need for reading glasses.

These are monofocal (single-focus) lenses that are designed for the best quality of vision at an optimum distance for you. Depending on your goals, there are options regarding where your eye is targeted, including distance vision only, near vision only, or blended vision (one eye set for distance; one near).

The new lenses are made of a specialized acrylic material and don’t move once inside your eye. Unlike glass or metal, your eye will not reject the acrylic lens.

No. RLE addresses the front of the eye, and macular degeneration affects the back of the eye. RLE patients should continue to schedule annual eye exams to check for naturally occurring eye problems such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, retinal degeneration, or detachment.

As you weigh the pros and cons of refractive lens exchange, it’s important to know that the decision to have a vision correction procedure is a personal one. Near vision loss and age-related vision changes are inevitable, but the progression varies from person to person. With technological advancements and the safety of RLE, many patients replace their lenses to help them see better now and avoid any further vision decline from cataracts.

You are encouraged to relax immediately following surgery, but are free to resume normal activities as comfort allows. For the first week, you should avoid rubbing or bumping your eyes, or getting soap or water in them. For one month following the procedure, you are cautioned against heavy lifting and physical exertion. During that time, you also need to avoid hot tubs, swimming pools, lakes, and oceans.