Lens Replacement

What Is Lens Replacement?

Technological advances have made Lens Replacement, or refractive lens exchange (RLE), a desirable option for patients aged 45 or older who want to minimize their need for glasses and contacts. The intraocular lenses (IOLs) now available to replace the natural lens in our eye can counteract presbyopia. This condition refers to the age-related worsening of vision that typically begins at about age 40 and often leads to a reliance on bifocals or reading glasses. At our Oklahoma City vision center, our Lens Replacement procedure corrects for other refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, and sharpens your vision’s focus.

The technology used in refractive lens exchange is the same as that used for laser cataract surgery. Using the high-precision image-guided femtosecond laser, our eye surgeons create a perfectly-sized opening to access the natural lens and replace it with a specialized lens. The results reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Can I Benefit from Lens Replacement?

When we’re young, the lens of our eye is clear and elastic and can change its shape to seamlessly adjust its focus when we look at objects at various distances. As we age, however, the lens is less adjustable and ultimately most people need reading glasses to see objects up close. This is called presbyopia.

The aging of the eye’s lens gradually continues and eventually becomes cloudy and opaque, as cataracts develop. Men and women used to wait until this point to undergo eye surgery, replacing cataracts with IOLs. Advances in technology now offer people the chance to exchange the lens of their eyes with IOLs much earlier, greatly reducing the need for reading glasses or contact lenses.

This solution is designed for anyone aged 45 or older who hasn’t been diagnosed with cataracts and finds it frustrating to rely on glasses or contacts for vision correction. Determining if you’re a good candidate for this procedure begins with a pre-operative eye test. The results of that exam determine if Lens Replacement can correct your vision.

FAQ

How is Lens Replacement different than LASIK?

LASIK reshapes the cornea using a laser. It corrects common refractive conditions, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Lens Replacement is typically reserved for patients who experience changes to their vision due to the natural aging of the eye, which requires them to wear reading glasses.

What’s the difference between Lens Replacement and cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is a medically necessary procedure performed when glasses or contacts can no longer adequately correct someone’s vision because of cataracts. Lens Replacement, also known as refractive lens exchange (RLE) surgery is an elective procedure that patients choose to reduce their need for glasses or contacts. Both procedures use essentially the same technique.

Are both eyes corrected at the same time?

Typically, our surgeons treat the eyes separately about 1 or 2 weeks apart. This can be discussed during the consultation.

Is Lens Replacement safe?

Laser cataract surgery is the most common surgical procedure performed in the U.S., with more than 3 million such surgeries performed annually. Len Replacement uses the same technique and its safety is one of the reasons it’s becoming increasingly popular. Your eye doctor will discuss the potential risks with you during your consultation.

Is Lens Replacement covered by insurance?

Vision insurance does not cover elective procedures such as Lens Replacement. We offer a number of payment options, including financing and other flexible payment plans. If you have a Flexible Spending Account (FSA), also known as a Flex Account, or Health Savings Account (HSA), you may be able to pay for your procedure with pre-tax dollars.

Is Lens Replacement a suitable alternative to wearing reading glasses?

Yes, Lens Replacement, or refractive lens exchange (RLE), is a suitable alternative to wearing reading glasses. By replacing your eye’s natural lens with an intraocular lens (IOL), we can correct presbyopia and restore your vision to a clearer, sharper, and more youthful state.

Is Lens Replacement permanent?

Yes, Lens Replacement is a permanent solution. Once the natural lens is replaced with an IOL, it does not need to be replaced again. The IOL remains in place for the rest of your life.

Can your vision worsen as you age, even if you have an IOL?

While the IOL itself will not change, other eye conditions such as glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy can still affect your vision. Regular eye check-ups are important to monitor and manage any changes in eye health as you age.

How long do IOLs last?

Intraocular lenses (IOLs) are designed to last a lifetime. They are made from materials that do not degrade or wear out over time, ensuring long-term correction of vision issues.

How much does an IOL cost in Oklahoma City?

The cost of an intraocular lens (IOL) procedure in Oklahoma City can vary widely based on the type of IOL used, the surgeon’s experience, and the specific details of the procedure. During your appointment, we will provide you with a personalized quote for your Lens Replacement.