Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
Dr. Leonard Bley and the team at NY LASIK are committed to helping people achieve better vision in Manhattan, Brooklyn, and the greater NYC area. Dr. Bley has performed more than 30,000 refractive procedures and is widely considered a leader in his field. We offer a range of vision correction options because we understand that the needs and goals of each patient are unique. Refractive Lens Exchange is an innovative procedure that can reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses and contact lenses.
What is RLE?
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), sometimes called lens replacement surgery, is a vision correction procedure. This surgery can correct a range of vision problems, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. During RLE, the eye’s natural lens is replaced with a customized artificial intraocular lens (IOL). RLE can be a great vision correction option for patients over 40 who are experiencing issues with age-related reading vision loss (presbyopia). RLE can also be a LASIK alternative for patients who are not candidates for laser eye surgery.
Benefits of RLE
- Improved Vision: RLE can significantly reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.
- Long-term Results: Your IOL is designed to be permanent so you can enjoy clear, stable vision for the long run.
- Cataract Prevention: By removing the natural lens, RLE eliminates your risk of developing cataracts in the future.
- Versatility: RLE can correct a wide range of vision issues and refractive errors.
Part of what makes RLE such an innovative vision correction option is the variety of IOLs available. There are many different types of IOL options, each designed specifically to address different vision issues. Our eye doctors will review all of the options and discuss your needs and goals in order to determine which IOL is best for you.
RLE: What to Expect
Preparing for RLE
During your consultation appointment, one of our eye doctors will examine your eyes, review your medical history, and discuss your vision goals. We will also answer any questions you have about the procedure or your other vision correction options. If RLE is right for you, we will give you detailed pre-surgical instructions.
Your RLE Procedure
Before your surgery begins, your eyes will be numbed with anesthetic eye drops. You may also have medication to help you relax. During RLE your eye surgeon will make a very small incision to remove the lens and replace it with your IOL. The actual procedure typically takes less than 10 minutes, but you should prepare to spend time at our clinic before and after the procedure.
Recovery After RLE
One of the benefits of RLE is a relatively short and easy recovery. Patients typically resume regular activities within a day or two of surgery, although you’ll need to avoid strenuous activities for at least one week. You’ll be prescribed eye drops to prevent inflammation and infection. We will also schedule follow-up appointments to check on your vision and healing.
Compare Vision Correction Surgery Options
At NY LASIK, our patients benefit from Dr. Bley’s extensive experience with a range of refractive procedures in addition to RLE. Having performed more than 30,000 vision correction surgeries, he is able to customize each patient’s experience to meet their unique needs.
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Excellent
Quick
Quick
Quick
Quick
5-10 Minutes
10-15 Minutes
5-10 minutes
15-20 Minutes
Yes up to -15D
Yes up to -12D
Yes up to -10D
Yes up to -20D
Yes
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
Yes
No
No
Yes
No
No
Yes
Yes
Yes with Monovision/ Blended Vision
Yes with Monovision/ Blended Vision
No
Ideal candidates for RLE are typically over 40 years old and in good general health with no history of glaucoma or other serious eye conditions.
Yes, you may be a candidate for RLE even if you previously had LASIK. RLE can be performed to address vision changes that occur due to aging, such as presbyopia or cataracts, which LASIK does not prevent.
Any surgical procedure carries some risk of side effects or complications, but RLE has a favorable safety profile. Our team takes care to minimize risks such as infection, inflammation, and changes in vision. Your eye doctor will discuss all benefits and risks with you.
The cost of RLE can vary depending on your individual needs and the type of IOL you choose. We offer financing options to help you fit better vision into your budget.