Refractive Lens Exchange in Oklahoma City, OK

BVA Advanced Eye Care is excited to provide refractive lens exchange (RLE) for Oklahoma City and surrounding area patients. RLE is basically the same procedure as cataract surgery but for the patient who doesn't have cataracts. Instead, the patient's lens is substituted with a custom-designed intraocular lens, or IOL, to eliminate or reduce refractive problems and restore clear vision at multiple ranges. RLE can be an excellent treatment possibility for individuals who have extremely elevated ranges of myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness) and who aren't good candidates for more common refractive vision surgeries. Reach out to a BVA location in or around Oklahoma City, OK to schedule your exam and see if RLE could work for you.

Refractive lens exchange is performed by removing the eye's natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The procedure begins with the application of anesthetic eye drops to numb the area. A tiny incision is then made in the cornea to access the natural lens, which is gently broken apart using ultrasound technology and removed. The surgeon then implants a custom-selected IOL based on your vision needs. The procedure usually takes around 15 – 30 minutes per eye. This procedure can be performed on both eyes about a week apart.

RLE offers several benefits for individuals seeking long-term vision correction:

• Eliminates the need for reading glasses or bifocals
• Provides a permanent solution for cataract prevention
• Corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism
• Delivers sharp, clear vision with minimal recovery time
• Reduces the risk of developing age-related vision issues

What should I expect during the initial consultation for refractive lens exchange?
During your initial consultation at BVA Advanced Eye Care, the eye care specialist will conduct a thorough eye examination to assess your vision needs and overall eye health. They will discuss your vision goals, review your medical history, and determine if you are a suitable candidate for RLE.

Are there any lifestyle restrictions following a refractive lens exchange procedure?
After undergoing RLE, patients are generally advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and swimming for at least two weeks to prevent any complications. Your ophthalmologist at BVA Advanced Eye Care will provide a detailed list of dos and don'ts to ensure a smooth recovery.

How will my vision change immediately after refractive lens exchange?
Immediately following RLE, it's common to experience blurry vision, which gradually improves within the first week as your eyes adjust to the new intraocular lens. Some patients may notice glare or halos around lights temporarily. Vision stabilization varies among individuals, but most patients report significant improvements in vision clarity and focus within a month after the procedure.

RLE at BVA Advanced Eye Care is an elective surgery that can greatly improve your eyesight and your general quality of life. For those who may not be great candidates for less-invasive treatments, such as LASIK, refractive lens exchange has the potential to lessen - or even end - the dependence on contacts or glasses, in addition to the likelihood of future cataracts. Call or visit one of our locations in or around Oklahoma City, OK to set up your consultation.