Skip to main menu Skip to main content Skip to footer

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)

Refractive Lens Exchange

2024 Best of the City

Better Vision, Better Life!

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a vision correction procedure that is intended for people aged 40 or older. The purpose of the procedure is to reduce the need for glasses and contact lenses.

The procedure will also reduce your need for cataract surgery in the future. This is an outpatient procedure which means you will be able to go home the day of your eye surgery.

The risks associated with Refractive Lens Exchange eye surgery are low and overall patient satisfaction is high, as most patients report having the vision they have desired within days post-operation.

 

Am I A Refractive Lens Exchange Candidate?

If you or a loved one have been suffering from the following symptoms or conditions, you may be a candidate if you:

  • Are over the age of 40
  • Have moderate to severe Myopia (Nearsightedness)
  • Have moderate to severe Hyperopia (Farsightedness)
  • Have moderate to severe Astigmatism
  • Have been told you are not a good LASIK candidate

What Is Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery?

Refractive Lens Exchange eye surgery is quick, and relatively painless as well. The surgery itself takes 10-15 minutes for each eye. During the procedure your eye doctor will replace the natural lens of your eye with an Intraocular Lens Implant (IOL). There are multiple IOLs which serve various vision correction needs. You and your eye doctor will discuss your vision problems and decide which IOL is the best choice for you. There are toric IOLs, monofocal IOLs, multifocal IOLs, and accommodating IOLs. After your procedure you may notice some minor side effects, such as glare, ghosting, and radial glare and flare. Contact us today to schedule your Refractive Lens Exchange consultation. More information about the successes of using trifocal lenses for Refractive Lens Exchange can be found here.

Steve Stucker

Discover the Possibilities of Vision Correction!

Are you curious about vision correction and how it can transform your life? Watch our one-hour seminar featuring the inspiring Steve Stucker as he shares his personal journey at Juliette Eye Institute.

In this engaging session, you’ll hear firsthand about Steve’s experience and learn about the latest advancements in vision correction technology. We’ll also explore how customized solutions can help you achieve the clear, confident vision you deserve.

Take the first step toward seeing the world more clearly—check out the seminar today and discover what’s possible with Juliette Eye Institute! Contact us today to schedule your Refractive Lens Exchange consultation. More information about the successes of using trifocal lenses for Refractive Lens Exchange can be found here.


Watch Vision Seminar with Steve Stucker!

Check Out The Stucker RLE Experience

Are you tired of relying on glasses or contacts for clear vision?

Wondering if there’s a better solution out there for you? Look no further! Discover which vision correction procedure is right for you today. Take the first step towards clear, effortless vision by clicking here to find out more.

View Video
Lobo Louie

Clareon Technology at Juliette Eye Institute

Clareon is Alcon’s most advanced BioMaterial to date. It is a hydrophobic acrylic material that provides patients with the sharpest and most pristine vision possible.

Thanks to its proprietary ENLIGHTEN Optical Technology, Clareon optimizes the ability to see at intermediate distances without taking away from the patient’s ability to see exceptionally well up close and at a distance.

What Is The PanOptix® Trifocal Lens?

PanOptix® Trifocal Lens

ThePanOptix® is the only FDA-approved trifocal lens. With a trifocal lens, patients can see well at all distances, including up close, far away, and everything in between.

The PanOptix® is a premium lens that enhances both quality and your range of vision. For patients, your vision will be sharp and vivid at any distance you need to see.

Benefits of the ClareonPanOptix® trifocal lens include:

Besides being a premium IOL, the Clareon PanOptix® trifocal lens is also available in a toric model. If you have astigmatism, you can also experience the benefits of the ClareonPanOptix® trifocal IOL.

Hear from Danny Gonzales about his recent RLE procedure

Toggle To Try our Your New Vision

“Refractive Lens Exchange has changed my life” – Danny Gonzalez

Better Vision, Better Life!

Refractive Lens Exchange FAQs

RLE, or Refractive Lens Exchange, is a vision correction procedure where the eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This surgery is designed to correct presbyopia, farsightedness, nearsightedness and astigmatism to eliminate the need for cataract surgery in the future. 

RLE is ideal for individuals over 40 who are experiencing presbyopia (difficulty focusing on near objects) or those who are not good candidates for LASIK or PRK due to thin corneas or other eye conditions. It is also a great option for those with early cataract development. 

RLE and cataract surgery are similar procedures. The difference is that RLE is performed to correct refractive errors before cataracts develop, whereas cataract surgery is performed after a cataract impairs vision. 

The procedure is painless because numbing eye drops are used. You may feel mild pressure during surgery, but discomfort is minimal and resolves quickly. 

The procedure typically takes about 10-12 minutes per eye and is performed as an outpatient surgery. Most patients have both eyes done on the same day, at the discretion from Dr. Melendez.

Initial recovery is fast, with most patients resuming normal activities within a few days. Vision stabilizes within a few weeks, though complete healing may take about 4–6 weeks. 

Many patients achieve excellent vision without glasses or contacts after RLE. However, the type of intraocular lens chosen (e.g., monofocal, multifocal, or toric) will determine whether you’ll need glasses for specific tasks, such as reading, most patients select the Panoptix Trifocal lens and are enabled to see near (16 in.), intermediate (24 in.), and at distance (36 in and beyond). 

RLE is a safe and effective procedure, but potential risks include glare, halos, and dry eyes. In more severe and extreme side effects include bleeding and retinal detachment. Dr. Melendez will discuss all potential risks during your consultation. 

The results of RLE are permanent, as the artificial lens does not age or degrade over time. Additionally, because the natural lens is removed, patients will not develop cataracts later in life. 

Preparation includes stopping contact lens use several days or weeks before surgery, avoiding eye makeup, and arranging for someone to drive you home. Dr. Melendez will provide detailed pre-op instructions to ensure a smooth experience. 

At Juliette Eye Institute, we specialize in RLE, a life-changing solution for those seeking clear vision without the hassle of glasses or contacts. Whether you’re ready to say goodbye to presbyopia or want to prevent cataracts, RLE offers a customized, long-term solution for your unique vision needs. Schedule a complimentary consultation today to learn more! 

Headset Icon
book your complimentary
virtual consultation
Calendar Icon
Request an Appointment
Pencil on Paper Icon
LASIK/SMILE Self-Test
Pencil on Paper Icon
cataract self-test