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Refractive Lens Exchange
Solutions for near and distance vision problems for people with cataracts and presbyopia (over 40 vision)
Thanks to today's modern eye surgery and the newest intraocular lens implants (IOLs), we have solutions for baby boomers and seniors so they can enjoy life more with less dependency on glasses, even reading glasses.
What is Refractive Lens Exchange
Refractive Lens Exchange is the same procedure as cataract surgery with the exception, the human lens when removed is clear and not cloudy due to a cataract. With today's modern cataract surgery, the surgeon replaces the human lens with an intraocular lens (IOL) that takes over the job of focusing light as it enter the eye. Until recently, a patient's only option was a standard IOL with merely one focal point, which was primarily calculated for distance.
Now, however, new IOLs give patients a choice of several advanced implants that offer significant vision improvements. At Parris-Castoro, these various IOLs are referred to as "deluxe" lenses. The focusing functions and benefits vary from lens to lens...each offering very specific, yet different advantages such as: vision for multiple distances, smooth transitional focusing, and the correction of astigmatism. Parris-Castoro is among a select group of practices specializing in deluxe lenses:
· ReSTOR IOL
· Crystalens IOL
· ACRYSOF Toric IOL
· ReZOOM IOL
Intra-Ocular Lens (IOL) 3x Actual size
Small Incision Entry
Ultra Sonic Removal of Lens
Out-Patient Surgery Center
Measurements and tests are performed the day of your evaluation to determine the proper power of the IOL. In certain cases, specialty IOL's for high prescriptions may need to be ordered. In addition, pre- and post-op instructions are reviewed.
Only one eye is treated at a time. The surgical stay is approximately 1 1/2 hours in our fully accredited, outpatient surgical center. Our anesthesiology team administers topical drops to numb the eye, and then IV sedation that helps to minimize the discomfort associated with a local injection. Patients do not typically report pain. The treated eye is patched and you leave fully alert. However, you will need someone to drive you home. If necessary, the second eye can be treated the following week.
Typical Healing
Patients are seen initially the next day to remove the patch and check the surgical result. Visual acuity typically increases over the next 3 weeks. Light activity can be resumed within 48 hours and moderate athletic activity may be resumed within 72 hours. If you lift heavy objects, please inquire with your doctor as to when you may resume lifting.
To ensure proper healing, patients are seen post-operatively: 1 week, 3 weeks, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months. Responsibility for post-operative examination is shared with your referring eye care professional. If necessary, your doctor will be able to prescribe reading glasses in approximately 1 month.
Facts to Know
- Refractive Lens Exchange eliminates the ability for the natural lens to accommodate for reading. Thus, young patients may not be a candidate for this procedure. In these cases, a comprehensive discussion with your doctor will help to determine candidacy.
- Rare, but potentially serious complications are infection and/or hemorrhaging.
- Enhancements (2nd treatment for refinement) may be necessary. If an enhancement is necessary, it can be performed typically 1-3 months after surgery.
- Frequently, as part of the natural long term healing process a film will develop on the capsule behind the IOL (the implant). This film can be removed using topical anesthesia and the YAG laser as an outpatient.
- Never hesitate to ask your doctor questions regarding your eye care.
