Refractive Lens Exchange in Baton Rouge, LA

Our ophthalmologists are proud to provide refractive lens exchange (RLE) for Baton Rouge, LA patients. RLE is designed to remove the eye's natural lens and substitute it with a medical-grade IOL (intraocular lens) to correct or significantly reduce many kinds of refractive errors and boost crisp vision at multiple distances. It is a great treatment option for individuals who have abnormally elevated levels of myopia or hyperopia and who are not eligible for other laser vision procedures. And, a significant benefit is that the artificial lens isn't susceptible to cataracts, which means RLE alleviates that concern. Call our eye clinic in Baton Rouge, LA to schedule an appointment to see if you are a good candidate for refractive lens exchange.

At Baton Rouge Eye Physicians, we offer RLE as a way to provide the following benefits to our patients:

• Decreased dependence on supportive vision devices, such as contacts or eyeglasses
• Ability to silmultaneously remove any existing cataracts
• Largely permanent solution for vision quality
• Available to a broader range of patients than other options, such as LASIK

As the anesthetic eye drops begin to wear off, you will notice some mild discomfort. However, it should only linger about 48 hours and is easily managed with nonprescription pain relievers. Nearly all patients who undergo RLE can expect to take advantage of their stronger vision in just 1 – 4 days, and most of them will significantly decrease or end the use of corrective eyewear.

Over the course of the first few months, you could have a number of occasional instances of fuzzy vision, light sensitivity, and dry eye symptoms. These are considered normal aspects of the recovery process and shouldn't be reasons for concern. Our team at Baton Rouge Eye Physicians will plan a series of necessary follow-up appointments for the months after your surgery to keep track of your healing.

The best candidates for RLE, or refractive lens exchange, at Baton Rouge Eye Physicians includes women and men who typically:

• Have myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), presbyopia, or astigmatism
• Want clearer vision
• Want to reduce their reliance on glasses and contacts
• Are usually 40+ years old
• Are not candidates for LASIK or other corrective procedures
• Have early cataracts

Baton Rouge Eye Physicians conducts RLE as an outpatient procedure that usually is completed in around 10 – 20 minutes, though, if you plan to get new lenses for each eye, you will have to wait about seven days between surgeries. To start off your surgery, we will apply special eye drops to desensitize the eyes and often a soothing anesthetic to maximize relaxation if needed. Then, a small incision is created in the corneal tissue and innovative technology is used to easily fragmentize and remove the patient's existing lens. Lastly, the customized IOL will be placed and the incision will be left to heal on its own without stitches.

Is refractive lens exchange safe?

Refractive lens exchange is as safe as cataract surgery. Numerous studies have shown the safety and efficacy of the procedure for a wide range of patients.

Is refractive lens exchange painful?

Prior to the procedure, numbing anesthetic eye drops will be used with most patients typically experiencing no discomfort. The recovery time for refractive lens exchange procedures is minimal with most patients returning to work, driving, and resuming normal daily activities within a week of the surgery.

Is refractive lens exchange permanent?

Yes, it is. Refractive lens exchange is a permanent solution to nearsightedness or farsightedness. In addition, RLE isn't susceptible to cataracts so you won't have that concern in the future.

What should I avoid after RLE?

Baton Rouge Eye Physicians can provide a complete list of post-operative instructions following surgery. In general, we recommend avoiding the following during recovery:

• Rubbing or touching your eyes
• Wearing eye makeup or cosmetics
• Swimming or entering a hot tub
• Excess sun exposure

Who is not a candidate for RLE?

There are a few reasons why someone might not be a good candidate for RLE. Please inform our team if you are pregnant, have had any recent eye infections, currently have an active eye disease, or if you have chronic dry eye. We can advise you on whether RLE is the best option for your needs.

RLE at Baton Rouge Eye Physicians is an innovative elective procedure that could significantly enhance your visual acuity, as well as decrease your dependency on corrective lenses. For patients who aren't ideal candidates for LASIK or PRK, refractive lens exchange may be an excellent alternative and has the added benefit of eliminating the possibility of getting cataracts in the future. Call or visit our Baton Rouge, LA practice to schedule your RLE evaluation today.