Our Services
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
About Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
RLE, also known as Clear Lens Exchange (CLE), is a vision correction surgery that closely resembles modern cataract surgery — but is done electively before cataracts develop. In this procedure:
- The natural, clear lens of the eye is removed.
- A customized artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted in its place.
- The IOL is selected based on your vision goals (e.g., distance, near, or multifocal correction).
Benefits of RLE:
- Permanent vision correction for high myopia, hyperopia, or age-related presbyopia
- Eliminates the risk of future cataracts
- Reduces or removes dependence on glasses or reading lenses
- Custom lens options (monofocal, multifocal, trifocal, toric lenses)
Who is a Good Candidate:
- Adults age 40 and above with decreasing near vision (presbyopia)
- Individuals with high refractive errors not suitable for LASIK/PRK
- People looking for a long-term solution to both distance and reading vision
- Patients with early signs of lens clouding or dysfunction
What to Expect:
- Outpatient, pain-free procedure usually done one eye at a time
- Fast recovery with most patients seeing clearly within a few days
- Some post-operative sensitivity and eye drops for a few weeks
RLE offers an advanced and future-proof way to achieve visual independence. Our ophthalmologists use precision diagnostics and premium lens options to tailor the treatment for your unique needs and lifestyle.
Frequently Asked Questions
[
{
“question”: “What is RLE?”,
“answer”: “RLE is similar to cataract surgery. It replaces your natural lens with an intraocular lens (IOL) to correct vision, particularly for people over 40.”
},
{
“question”: “Is RLE safe?”,
“answer”: “Yes, it’s a widely performed and effective alternative for those with presbyopia or high refractive errors.”
}
]