Refractive Lens Exchange

Transform Your Vision with Refractive Lens Exchange in Sydney

Do you suffer from presbyopia, the age-related loss of near vision? Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) or clear lens exchange (CLE) is a viable treatment option. It is a revolutionary procedure that has changed the way we help people achieve their best possible vision. It is a safe and effective procedure that can potentially eliminate the need for glasses and contact lenses.

 

If you would like to find out more about refractive lens exchange surgery, contact Vision Clinic Sydney for more information.

Refractive Lens Exchange

Refractive lens exchange (RLE) is a surgical procedure that replaces the eye’s natural lens with an artificial lens

What is Refractive Lens Exchange surgery?

Refractive lens exchange replaces the natural lens with a presbyopia-correcting artificial intraocular lens (IOL) in patients wishing to correct farsightedness, nearsightedness or presbyopia without undergoing a corneal modification procedure such as LASIK.

 

Patients can choose from a wide range of IOLs in order to achieve the best possible vision for their eyes.

Benefits of refractive lens exchange surgery

There are several benefits to having this treatment which include:

  • Reduced need for glasses or contacts: Refractive lens exchange surgery can provide a permanent near-vision correction, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
  • Improved vision: Refractive lens exchange surgery can provide improved vision for those suffering from presbyopia, astigmatism and farsightedness.
  • Quick recovery: Refractive lens exchange surgery has a quick recovery time and patients can often resume their normal activities within a few days.
  • No risk of developing cataracts: Because the natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens, the risk of cataract development is nil.
  • Improved quality of life: Refractive lens exchange surgery can provide improved vision, which can improve a person’s overall quality of life.
eyeglasses vs contact lenses

Refractive lens exchange can help patients reduce the need for glasses and contact lenses

Risks of refractive lens exchange procedure

There are a few risks associated with this surgery, and although uncommon it is necessary to be aware of them, they include:

 
  • Infection
  • Vision Loss
  • Retinal detachment
  • Glare or halos
  • Dry eyes
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How RLE surgery works

Refractive lens exchange (RLE) surgery is a procedure in which the natural lens of the eye is removed and replaced with an artificial lens (intraocular lens implant, or IOL). It is typically used to correct refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism and may be recommended for people who are not good candidates for LASIK or other types of refractive surgery.

During RLE surgery, the surgeon will make a small incision in the cornea and use a special tool to remove the natural lens. The new IOL is then inserted and positioned in place. The IOL is designed to correct the refractive error and change the way light is focused in the eye.

Recovery from RLE surgery is typically quicker than other forms of refractive surgery and vision improvement is usually seen within a few days. Patients typically experience some mild discomfort after the procedure, but this usually resolves quickly.

Follow-up appointments are necessary to make sure the IOL is functioning properly and to monitor the patient’s healing.

After surgery, patients enjoy clearer vision and greater focusing power almost immediately. Most benefit from an eliminated or significantly reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses and vision that remains stable over time. This procedure also prevents the patient from developing cataracts in the future.

Are you a candidate for this surgery?

  • Want to reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses or contacts
  • Are over 45 years old
  • Have high myopia (nearsightedness), high hyperopia (farsightedness), or presbyopia, with or without cataracts
  • Have early symptoms of cataracts

Although refractive lens exchange is considered safe for most patients, there are certain risks associated with any kind of procedure. You can discuss these risks, along with the benefits of this procedure, before deciding whether or not it is right for you.

Happy Senior couple holding eyeglass
RLE can help you restore your vision and enjoy life without the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Points to remember about Refractive Lens Exchange

  • Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a surgical procedure that replaces the natural lens of the eye with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) in order to improve vision.
  • RLE has been used successfully to treat a wide range of refractive errors, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
  • RLE is a relatively safe and effective procedure with a high success rate and low risk of complications.
  • RLE can provide a permanent solution for improving vision and reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
  • RLE can be combined with other vision correction procedures, such as LASIK, to provide the best possible outcome.

Vision Clinic Sydney

Vision Clinic Sydney ophthalmologists can help with treatment. We can provide a comprehensive eye examination to determine the degree of the condition and the best course of treatment.

Refractive lens exchange cost

The cost of refractive lens exchange may be dependent on the severity of the condition. After a full consultation with Dr Kumar, you will receive a detailed quotation and details on Medicare rebates if they apply.

Please contact us directly or book a consultation to find out more about our prices.

Why choose Vision Clinic Sydney for Refractive Lens Exchange treatment?

Vision Clinic Sydney ophthalmologists can help with treatment. We can provide a comprehensive eye examination to determine the degree of the condition and the best course of treatment. We believe there are numerous reasons to choose us for your treatment:
  • We use state-of-the-art diagnostic and laser technology to maximally optimise your vision
  • We provide excellent quality of service combined with superb surgical outcomes
  • Tailored and innovative solutions for each patient
  • Highly professional yet personal communication with patients
  • Over 19 years of experience
  • Dr Kumar has carried out thousands of cataract and refractive procedures
  • Prompt appointments, treatment and reduced waiting times in the clinic
  • Meticulous attention to detail ensuring your vision is protected

Vision Clinic Sydney

Vision Clinic Sydney ophthalmologists can help with treatment. We can provide a comprehensive eye examination to determine the degree of the condition and the best course of treatment.

You may be a candidate for clear lens extraction if you:

Refractive Lens Exchange You may be a candidate for clear lens extraction
  • Want to reduce or eliminate your dependence on glasses or contacts
  • Are over 50 years old
  • Have high myopia (nearsightedness), high hyperopia (farsightedness), or presbyopia, with or without cataracts
  • Have early symptoms of cataracts

Although refractive lens exchange is considered safe for most patients, there are certain risks associated with any kind of procedure. You can discuss these risks, along with the benefits of this procedure, before deciding whether or not it is right for you.

Refractive Lens Exchange You may be a candidate for clear lens extraction
eye surgeon sydney

Meet Dr Kumar

Dr Nikhil Kumar has always had a strong interest in the intricate workings of the eye, which has driven him to become an ophthalmologist. After obtaining his medical degree from the University of Newcastle in 1998, he furthered his studies in ophthalmology at the Sydney Eye Hospital, and finally completed his specialisation there in 2008. He is an experienced cataract and refractive surgeon, having performed thousands of cataract and refractive lens exchange procedures.

How to book an appointment

In order to receive a Medicare rebate for the initial consultation and any relevant tests/procedures at the clinic, you must have a referral letter from your regular doctor or eye specialist.

If you do not have a referral letter, you can still be seen at the practice, but you will not be able to claim a Medicare rebate.

You can download the referral PDF form or submit it online.

Please bring:

  • Any prescription glasses that you wear
  • Sunglasses or a hat as your eyes may be dilated during the consultation, resulting in possible sensitivity to light and blurred vision. You may not be able to read or drive for 4 hours after your appointment.
  • A list of current medications and details of your medical history
  • If you have your Medicare card, private health fund card and pension card.

Our location in Sydney

We are located in the central business district of Sydney in New South Wales. Our physical address is Level 6, Suite 605, 229 Macquarie St., Sydney NSW 2000, Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions

Below you can find our most commonly asked questions:
Refractive lens exchange in Australia can be considered expensive, depending on the type of lenses used and the clinic where the procedure is performed. The average cost of refractive lens exchange in Australia can range from $4000 to $6000 per eye. This includes hospital fees, lens fees, anaesthetist fees and surgeon fees.
Most patients achieve 20/20 vision or better and experience little to no complications.
The ideal age for refractive lens exchange is typically between 40 and 55 years old. However, the procedure can be performed at any age, depending on the patient’s individual needs and preferences.

The refractive lens exchange procedure is the same as that used in cataract surgery; the only difference is that refractive lens exchange is performed to achieve refractive correction rather than cataract removal. Refractive lens exchange involves a rapid recovery and offers patients dramatic improvement in vision quality.

Refractive lens exchange (RLE) is a surgical procedure that removes the eye’s natural lens and replaces it with an artificial lens. The artificial lens is designed to correct vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism.

This information is not intended to be used for diagnosis or treatment. It is aimed at presenting a perspective only and is not a substitute for a prescription. Anyone experiencing a medical condition should consult their doctor.

Concerned About Your Vision?

 Our friendly staff can talk to you about your vision issues and arrange the best course of action for diagnosis and treatment. Take advantage of our complimentary vision assessment to see how we can make it happen for you.

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