How Long Does RLE Last?
office hours
Monday To Thursday
8:00 am – 5:00 pm
Friday
7:00 am – 3:00 pm
Saturday To Sunday
Closed
Call Us Today! : 956-305-5795
Address : 5201 N G St, McAllen, TX, 78504
Are you tired of constantly relying on your glasses and contact lenses to see clearly? If so, Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) surgery could be the answer you’ve been looking for. This procedure can be used to correct common vision problems like farsightedness, nearsightedness, or astigmatism.
The RLE procedure can significantly improve your vision by replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens. But how long does the refractive lens exchange procedure last? Keep reading to learn more about RLE and whether it’s the right choice for you.
Keep reading to learn more about whether or not LipiFlow is worth it for you.
How Does RLE Work?
Refractive Lens Exchange surgery, also called Clear Lens Exchange surgery, is a medical procedure that’s designed to correct the refractive errors that affect eyesight. During this procedure, the surgeon removes the eye’s natural lens and replaces it with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). RLE is a great alternative for anyone who can’t undergo laser vision correction surgery (LASIK) and for those who suffer from age-related vision problems like cataracts. Consult your doctor to determine whether RLE is right for you.
How Long Does the RLE Procedure Take?
Once you’ve been prepped, the refractive lens exchange procedure typically takes about 15-20 minutes per eye. However, this timeline varies depending on individual factors and the complexity of the case. Here’s a brief overview of how the procedure goes:
- The eye surgeon will numb the area around your eye with topical or local anesthesia.
- They will then make a small incision near the edge of your cornea.
- The surgeon will use an ultrasound device to break your natural lens into smaller bits.
- Once the fragments have been removed with a suction tube, the artificial lens is put into the lens capsule and aligned properly.
- The small incision in your cornea will heal by itself without stitches.
Although some patients notice an improvement within a few days, full recovery can take several weeks or months.
Is RLE Permanent?
If you’re considering lens implant surgery for vision correction, one of the top questions on your mind is probably related to how long the results will last. The good news is that RLE provides permanent effects. This is because the artificial lens used in the procedure is made to last a lifetime. However, it’s important to note that the surgery doesn’t stop your eyes from aging. You may still develop other age-related eye issues. Still, the procedure can reduce or eliminate your need to undergo treatment for some common age-related issues, specifically cataracts.Â
Is RLE Worth It?
When deciding whether RLE vision correction surgery is worth the investment, the cost of the procedure is often the deciding factor. While the procedure can be costly, the results from RLE can greatly improve your quality of life and save you money in the long run. Some of the reasons why you should consider RLE surgery include:
- Reduce Reliance on Glasses and Contact Lenses: The lens replacement surgery is permanent, so you may no longer need to invest in glasses and contact lenses.
- Correct a Wide Range of Vision Problems: The RLE procedure can correct common vision problems like nearsightedness, farsightedness, presbyopia, or astigmatism.
- Better Cataract Management: By completely replacing the natural lens, the surgery significantly reduces the need for cataract surgery in the future.
- Quality Vision for Longer: RLE can provide clearer vision for many years, making it easier for you to live a much better life.
What to Expect from RLE?
After your RLE surgery, your eyes will begin to heal immediately. However, some side effects may include blurred vision and fluctuations in your eyesight for a short period. You’ll need to attend multiple exam sessions with your doctor to monitor your progress. Your eye doctor may also prescribe some antibiotic eye drops and anti-inflammatory medications to reduce any pain and the chances of irritation during your recovery process.
Visit a McAllen Ophthalmologist at Gelman Vision for Your RLE Surgery
If you’re worried about whether or not Refractive Lens Exchange surgery is right for you, we’ve got you covered. From consultation to post-surgery care, our McAllen ophthalmologist will guide you through the entire process. Here at Gelman Vision, we’re committed to helping you achieve clearer vision through advanced procedures like RLE surgery.
Our dedicated team will take the time to discuss your visual goals and needs. From there, we’ll develop a plan to help you make the best decision for your eye health. If you’re tired of depending on glasses or contacts, refractive surgery might be your answer. Don’t let bad eyesight affect your quality of life. Take control of your sight with us at Gelman Vision.