If you have a high level of farsightedness or nearsightedness and want to improve your eyesight, you may consider refractive lens exchange surgery (RLE). This is an advanced laser eye surgery for vision correction in which your natural lens is replaced with an artificial lens. Read on to learn more about the eye implant procedure.
Necessary Tests Before Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery
- Imaging of the Cornea
For RLE laser eye surgery, your doctor will take the images of your cornea and examine it. They will use the results to determine the best way to make the incisions to help solve your vision problem. - Intraocular Lens (IOL)
Then, they will determine the power of the intraocular lens, also referred to as the eye implant, suitable for you. They will measure the curvature of the front of your eye and length to calculate the power of the lens required for your specific needs.
Procedure for Laser Refractive Lens Exchange
RLE surgery is a quick procedure involving the following steps:
- Your doctor will administer dilating drops and anesthesia into your eye before the surgery.
- They will make a self-healing micro-incision in the cornea.
- After making the incision, they will use advanced ultrasound technology to remove the natural lens of your eye.
- They will replace it with a new, artificial lens, which takes the place of your natural lens.
- Finally, your surgeon will place an antibiotic into the eye to prevent infection.
- They will keep you under observation and discharge once you are stable.
Things to Consider for Post-Surgery Recovery
Although you may return to your normal activities after refractive lens exchange surgery, keep the following in mind:
- Do not engage in any strenuous activities soon after the procedure.
- Use the prescription for eye drops as recommended by your eye surgeon.
- Be sure to use your protective eye shield before going to sleep and follow this for at least 5-8 nights post-surgery.
- Although you may wash your face and take showers, avoid getting water in your eye, at least for the first two weeks after the RLE surgery.
- Avoid lifting heavy weights during the first two weeks of your recovery period.
Cost of RLE Laser Eye Surgery in Canada
The total cost of the refractive lens exchange procedure typically depends on the following factors:
- Vision prescription strength
- Experience of the eye surgeon
- The type of laser technology used for the surgery
- The kind of artificial contact lenses used for the procedure
- Pre-surgery and post-surgery consultations
The pricing packages may vary when it comes to the RLE laser eye surgery. It helps to ask what is included in the procedure so you can understand the pricing aspect.
Restore Your Vision with Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery at UELC
UELC is a leading laser eye clinic in Vaughan, having a qualified team of eye surgeons to help improve your vision. We use safe techniques and advanced technology to cater to your needs. Call us at 416-653-8352 to speak to one of our qualified specialists about RLE laser vision correction. We’ll be happy to guide you!