Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)

What is Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery?

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is an advanced vision correction procedure designed to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contacts. It involves gently removing the eye’s natural lens and replacing it with a premium intraocular lens (IOL) tailored to your vision needs. RLE is an excellent solution for individuals over 40-50 experiencing presbyopia (difficulty focusing on close objects) or those with nearsightedness, farsightedness, or early cataract formation. For some, RLE can be an ideal alternative to LASIK, providing long-lasting vision correction.

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Our RLE Lens Options

At Pacific Eye Surgeons, we offer a selection of state-of-the-art lenses to meet a variety of vision needs, ensuring personalized treatment for each patient:

Who is a Good Candidate for RLE?

RLE is a fantastic vision correction option for individuals who:

What to Expect on Surgery Day

Here’s a quick look at what to expect:

Your surgeon will help you select the best IOL option based on your unique visual needs and lifestyle.

Learn More at Pacific Eye Surgeons

The only way to determine if RLE is right for you is to schedule a consultation. Our team is here to answer any questions you may have and guide you through the journey to a clearer vision. Contact us today to learn more or to book an appointment at our conveniently located centers.

There are several types of intraocular lenses (IOLs) used in RLE, including monofocal, multifocal, and toric lenses. Monofocal lenses correct for one distance (usually distance vision), while multifocal lenses help with both distance and near vision. Toric lenses are designed for patients with astigmatism. Your eye surgeon will help determine the best lens type based on your lifestyle, vision needs, and eye health.

Preparing for RLE is relatively simple. During your consultation, your surgeon will evaluate your eye health and vision to ensure RLE is right for you. You may be asked to stop wearing contact lenses for a period before your pre-surgery eye exam, as they can affect the shape of your cornea. On the day of the surgery, you’ll need to arrange for someone to drive you home, as you won’t be able to drive immediately after the procedure due to mild anesthesia.

Most patients notice improvement in their vision within a few days after the procedure, although full stabilization of vision may take a few weeks. You may experience some blurry or fluctuating vision during the initial recovery period, which is normal as the eyes heal and adjust.

The RLE procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes per eye. It is a minimally invasive outpatient surgery performed under local anesthesia, and patients are usually able to go home the same day.

No, RLE surgery is generally not painful. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, so you won’t feel any pain during the surgery. Some patients may experience mild discomfort or dryness in the days following the procedure, but this can be managed with prescribed eye drops.

As with any surgery, RLE has some risks, including infection, retinal detachment, or glare and halos around lights. However, complications are rare, and our experienced surgeons take steps to minimize risks. We will thoroughly discuss any concerns during your consultation.

The primary benefit of RLE is the potential to improve vision and reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses. The procedure can also correct a wide range of vision issues, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, and can eliminate the need for reading glasses associated with presbyopia.

RLE is typically considered an elective procedure and is not usually covered by insurance. However, some patients may be able to use their flexible spending accounts (FSAs) or health savings accounts (HSAs) to help cover costs. We offer payment plans to assist with financing.

Recovery from RLE is relatively quick. Most patients can resume normal activities within a few days, although you should avoid strenuous activities for about a week. You may experience mild irritation, dryness, or blurry vision in the first few days, but these symptoms typically improve as your eyes heal.

After RLE, many patients experience improved vision and reduced dependence on glasses, especially for distance vision. However, some patients may still need reading glasses, depending on the type of lens used and the results of the surgery. We offer various lens options, including multifocal lenses, that can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses.

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Serving Our Community

Pacific Eye Surgeons has offices in San Luis Obispo, Lompoc, Paso Robles, Pismo Beach, Orcutt, and Santa Maria, California, as well as Optical Concepts in Santa Maria.

1111 E. Ocean Ave, Suite 7
Lompoc, CA 93438
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1140 E Clark Ave.
Suite 160-B
Orcutt, CA 93455
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220 Oak Hill Rd.
Paso Robles, CA 93446
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931 Oak Park Blvd, Suite 201
Pismo Beach, CA 93449
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3855 Broad Street, Suite B
San Luis Obispo, CA 93401
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816 East Enos Dr., Suite A
Santa Maria, CA 93454
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