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Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)

There is no one-size-fits-all procedure for vision correction. That’s why Dr. Kerry Solomon offers a variety of options for patients in his Charleston, SC practice. Refractive lens exchange (RLE), also referred to as lens replacement surgery or clear lens extraction, can be a great solution for people with presbyopia and significant hyperopia (farsightedness). In this procedure, Dr. Solomon replaces the clear, natural lens of the eye with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clear distance vision, near vision, or even both!

If you are interested in reducing your dependency on glasses, request an appointment to find out if refractive lens exchange – or another option – could be right for you. You can also call us at (843) 881-3937 and one of our knowledgeable team members will be happy to schedule your appointment.

What Is RLE?

RLE is a procedure that is almost identical to cataract surgery in that the eye’s natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. These advanced clear IOLs are designed to improve the clarity of your vision and reduce or even eliminate your dependence on glasses. There are options for near vision, distance vision, and even multiple distances. Another benefit of RLE is that once your eye’s own lens is replaced, you will never develop cataracts—so your new, clear vision is yours for life!

Benefits of RLE

• Variety of implantable lens options to meet your individual vision goals
• After RLE, you will never develop cataracts
• Can correct for hyperopia/myopia/astigmatism as well as age-related presbyopia

What to Expect From RLE Surgery

Dr. Solomon performs RLE as an outpatient procedure in our state-of-the-art, dedicated eye surgery center. Our excellent team of eye care professionals will help you relax with a mild sedative, then will numb your eyes with anesthetic drops. Dr. Solomon makes a microscopic incision through which he inserts an ultrasonic suction probe that gently breaks up and removes the lens from the lens capsule. The rolled-up IOL is inserted through the tiny incision and unfolded into place. The surgery takes about 15 minutes and requires no stitches, no patches, and no needles. You will have a brief follow-up visit the day after your procedure to ensure that everything is going well. You may experience discomfort for a few days after your procedure, but over-the-counter pain relievers typically help with this. It can take 2 to 4 weeks for your vision to become completely clear and stable.