Refractive lens exchange (RLEx)
Refractive lens exchange (RLEx) involves replacing the natural lens of the eye with an artificial intra-ocular lens. RLEx can be an option for those with high prescriptions not suitable for laser eye surgery, or, for older people, perhaps over the age of 60, who want a stable and permanent treatment that removes the risk of cataracts developing in later life. The visual recovery after RLEx is rapid and astigmatism can be treated at the same time.
There are a few different options that can be considered.
1. Monofocal Lenses - These lenses give the best clarity of vision but they can only have one focus. If you choose to focus your eyes for distance vision you will still need to wear spectacles for close work or visa versa. This is an acceptable choice for most patients who are used to wearing high powered spectacles, often varifocals, all day everyday.
2. Monovision Monofocal Lenses - Here monofocal lenses are used in both eyes, however, the dominant eye is focussed for distance and the non dominant eye focused for closer work. This system works surprisingly well and is regularly chosen by our patients as an effective way of managing both distance and close work and dramatically reducing dependence on spectacles and possibly removing the need for spectacles altogether.
3. Multifocal lenses - These lenses have a dual focussing system built into the lens, so both eyes are balanced and work together, and the optics of the implanted lens focuses distance and near vision as required by the brain. Often patients have to accept a very small reduction in absolute clarity with these lenses in order to gain the balanced dual function that they offer, but they are a very popular and successful way of dealing with both distance and close visual needs whilst maintaining a balance between the two eyes.
Occasionally Laser Eye Surgey enhancement is required to fine tune the refractive results. Sheffield Vision Centre are able to offer free laser eye surgery enhancements if they are deemed necessary, giving you the best chance of an outstanding result and total satisfaction.
If you're interested in learning more about Refractive Lens Exchange please call 0500 400 222 to book a complimentary consultation.
