Refractive Lens Exchange – Dr. Akbar Eye Hospital

refractive lens exchange (RLE)

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a vision correction procedure where the eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to correct refractive errors such as presbyopia, high hyperopia, or early cataracts. It’s particularly recommended for patients over 40 who want long-term freedom from glasses or contact lenses.

Conditions Treated with RLE

Presbyopia

Age-related loss of near vision

High Farsightedness (Hyperopia)

Especially when LASIK isn't suitable

Early Cataracts

Lens clouding before full cataract formation

Astigmatism

Corrected using toric IOLs for sharper focus

Symptoms

Flashes of Light

Sudden bright flashes may indicate a retinal tear.

Floaters

Dark spots or strings floating in your vision.

Blurry or Distorted Vision

Objects appear bent or out of focus.

Loss of Peripheral Vision

A shadow or curtain over part of your visual field.

Sudden Vision Changes

Quick onset of blurry vision or loss of clarity.

Difficulty with Night Vision

Trouble seeing in dim light or at night.

Blind Spots

Gaps or dark patches in the visual field.

Swelling or Redness in the Eye

Accompanied by vision changes.

Benefits of RLE

Permanent vision correction and long-term clarity
Reduces or eliminates dependence on glasses or contacts
Prevents cataract formation in the future
Quick recovery with minimal discomfort
Ideal for patients unsuitable for LASIK or PRK

Age

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Genetics

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Why is RLE Performed?

High Refractive Errors

Ideal for patients with high myopia or hyperopia beyond LASIK or PRK correction limits.

Age-Related Vision Changes (Presbyopia)

Replaces the stiff natural lens with a multifocal or trifocal IOL to restore near and distance vision.

Thin or Irregular Corneas

Safe alternative for patients unsuitable for laser surgery.

Early Cataract Formation

Corrects refractive errors and prevents cataracts from developing later.

Permanent Vision Correction

Offers lifelong clarity by replacing the natural lens, eliminating future cataract risk.

RLE is a safe and effective alternative to laser surgery, ideal for adults over 40 seeking complete freedom from glasses or contact lenses.

Type of Intraocular Lenses

Type of IOLs (Intraocular Lenses) Used in cataract surgery

Lens Type	Description

Lens Type	Description

Monofocal	Corrects vision for distance only; requires glasses for computer use and reading.
EDOF(Extended Depth of focus)	Corrects vision for Distance+ Intermediate + Near without the need for glasses. No halos & glare.
Multifocal	Corrects vision for Distance + Intermediate + Near without the need for glasses. May cause halos & glare.
Toric IOL (For Astigmatism)	Corrects astigmatism (cylinder > 0.75). Available in Monofocal, EDOF, Multifocal, Trifocal options.

• Before surgery, your eyes are examined and measured to select the ideal lens power for your needs.

• You’ll receive topical anesthesia (numbing eye drops) — no injections or general anesthesia are required.

• The eye is cleaned and covered with a sterile drape. The pupil is dilated to provide access to the natural lens.

• A tiny incision (2–3 mm) is made at the edge of the cornea.

• The surgeon uses an advanced phacoemulsification system that emits ultrasonic energy to gently break and remove the natural lens.

• Once the old lens is removed, a customized artificial IOL (monofocal, multifocal, trifocal, or toric) is folded and inserted through the same micro-incision.

• The lens unfolds and settles naturally into position inside the eye — no stitches are required.

• A protective eye shield may be placed temporarily after surgery.

• You’ll be advised to use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops to aid healing and prevent infection.

• Most patients notice a significant improvement in vision within 24–48 hours.

• Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing and ensure the lens is perfectly positioned.

How RLE procedure is Performed

Preparation

Lens Removal and Replacement

• A tiny incision (2–3 mm) is made at the edge of the cornea.

• The surgeon uses an advanced phacoemulsification system that emits ultrasonic energy to gently break and remove the natural lens.

• Once the old lens is removed, a customized artificial IOL (monofocal, multifocal, trifocal, or toric) is folded and inserted through the same micro-incision.

• The lens unfolds and settles naturally into position inside the eye — no stitches are required.

After Surgery

• A protective eye shield may be placed temporarily after surgery.

• You’ll be advised to use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops to aid healing and prevent infection.

• Most patients notice a significant improvement in vision within 24–48 hours.

• Follow-up visits are scheduled to monitor healing and ensure the lens is perfectly positioned.

Cataract Surgery

How is Squint Diagnosed?

Eye doctors use advanced diagnostic tools to identify dry eye syndrome.