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Newark Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery

Eye Care of Delaware is a first-class refractive lens exchange (RLE) provider in Newark, DE. With more than two decades at the forefront of eye care, Dr. Boyd has vast experience as a refractive surgery specialist. When laser vision correction surgery is not an appropriate solution, RLE offers a proven, dependable procedure for delivering vision correction.

Refractive lens exchange doctors in Newark

What Is Refractive Lens Exchange

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) procedure is the same as cataract surgery in that the natural lens is being removed and replaced with a clear, intraocular lens implant. The difference is that with cataract surgery, the lens is being replaced because it has become cloudy.

 

With RLE, the lens is being replaced to reduce your dependence on glasses or contact lenses. It is even possible to reduce dependency on reading glasses with “Expanded Range” IOLs (intraocular lenses).

 

Refractive Lens Exchange might be the procedure of choice for patients who are too nearsighted, farsighted, or have corneas that are too thin for laser vision correction. It is also a viable option for those over the age of 40, or who may be starting to develop cataracts.

The RLE Procedure

During the procedure, the natural lens is removed using ultrasonic vibrations through a very tiny micro-incision. An intraocular lens is then inserted through the same incision, and no sutures are required.

 

One of the benefits of having RLE surgery is that you will never need to have cataract surgery in the future, and your vision will remain relatively stable for the rest of your life. Advanced technology IOLs are optional to suit your unique eyes and lifestyle, providing an opportunity to improve astigmatism and reading vision.

Are You a Candidate for Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery?

  • A comprehensive consultation is performed prior to surgery to ensure you have healthy eyes
  • Over 18 years old
  • Stable glasses prescription for at least one year
  • If you’re pregnant or nursing, your hormonal levels can affect the shape of your eye – you’ll need to wait until your hormones are back to normal levels

What to Expect on the Day of the RLE Surgery

Our team is dedicated to giving you personalized treatment in a friendly, comfortable environment. Our refractive surgeries are performed in our adjacent outpatient surgery center, the Cataract and Laser Center. We understand that patients may be nervous on the day of surgery, so shortly after your arrival you will be given a mild sedative to help you relax. Regardless of the type of refractive surgery, the pre-operative process is the same.

 

We don’t use any needles or IV’s, just “eye drop” anesthesia. Once your eye is completely numb, an instrument is gently placed between your lids to prevent blinking. You should experience minimal discomfort; just a little stretch of your lids and some pressure at times.

 

These procedures are usually complete within 15 minutes with a remarkably short recovery time, but plan on being here a few hours for the entire process. Most patients return to normal activities within a day or two. The only restrictions are to not rub your eyes or swim for two weeks.

Common Questions About Refractive Lens Exchange

The risk of complications with RLE surgery is very low. While any eye surgery could lead to unexpected issues, we go to great lengths to ensure patient safety and a successful outcome.

The intraocular lenses are intended to be permanent replacements for the body’s natural lenses. For most people, refractive lens exchange surgery will be a lifetime solution for their myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism. In some cases cloudy vision may develop, requiring additional treatment to correct the issue.

Patients may experience minor side effects, but any issues will soon pass. Side effects could include dry eyes, sensitivity to light, blurred vision, temporary redness and halos of light. Recovery times following the RLE procedure are often from 1–2 days.

Refractive Lens Exchange Surgical Procedures in Newark

Refractive lens exchange is a popular alternative to laser eye surgery, and is available at the Eye Care of Delaware center in Newark. Dr. Boyd works with patients in Delaware, Maryland, New Jersey and Pennsylvania to reduce dependence on glasses using the proven RLE procedure. For assistance, call (302) 454-8800 or request an appointment now.

Eye Care of Delaware Treatments & Surgeries

Our Delaware cataract and laser surgery center is home to many advanced eye surgery procedures and treatments. We offer solutions for these most common eye disorders.

Eye that has a cataract because it hasn't had cataract removal surgery

Cataracts

Cataract surgery can correct a cloudy, natural lens, while also correcting one’s vision with an IOL replacement.

Eye that has damage to the cornea and needs treatment

Cornea

Resolve corneal infections with effective treatments ranging from dry eye to ocular surface disease.

Cloudy eye ball because it hasn't been treated for Glaucoma

Glaucoma

Accurate glaucoma testing and treatment is essential to reduce the risk of vision loss as you age.

Eye on a person's face after refractive surgery

Refractive

Refractive lens exchange will correct farsightedness, nearsightedness or astigmatism.

Eyelid getting marketing for eyelid surgery

Eyelids

Reshape and remove excess skin and fatty tissue from the eyelids with eyelid surgery.

Eye that needs a retinal treatment

Retinal

Retinal treatments stop gradual vision loss from macular degeneration, retinal tears or detachment.