Refractive Lens Exchange

A Lens-Based Option for Patients

Refractive lens exchange, or RLE, is a procedure in which the eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial lens implant to help improve vision and reduce dependence on glasses or contacts.

RLE may be considered for patients who are not ideal candidates for LASIK, PRK, or EVO ICL — especially patients in their 40s, 50s, or 60s who are starting to notice reading vision changes or early lens changes.

RLE may be an option for patients who:

  • Want to reduce dependence on glasses or contacts
  • Are not ideal LASIK or PRK candidates
  • Have early lens changes
  • Are frustrated with readers, bifocals, or progressive glasses
  • Have prescriptions better addressed with a lens-based procedure
  • Want to address distance and reading vision goals at the same time

Because RLE replaces the natural lens, patients who undergo RLE will not later develop a cataract in that eye. However, the procedure is not right for every patient and requires a careful discussion of benefits, risks, lens implant options, and expectations.