What is Refractive Lens Exchange?

Some patients who do not yet have a visually significant cataract undergo the same procedure – replacement of the natural lens with an intraocular lens (IOL) -- but pay out of pocket for the surgery. This is called “refractive lens exchange” because the patient does not yet have a visually significant cataract and the goal of the surgery is primarily refractive – to decrease the patient’s dependence on glasses.

The first step is to determine if you are a good candidate for refractive lens exhange. Let your primary eyecare provider know you are interested in Refractive Lens Exchange at your eye exam, and they can help you consider if this would be a good step for you. Refractive lens exchange is usually not recommended for patients younger than 50 or with a history of retinal detachment.

The next step is a pre-surgical consultation with Dr. Rebecca Dale. At this visit we will take multiple measurements of your eyes, examine your eyes with a dilated eye exam, and discuss how you will take care of your eyes before and after surgery.

At this visit, Dr. Dale will also discuss how you use your eyes now and planning what you want your vision to be after refractive lens exchange. There are a variety of intra-ocular lenses available which can change the focus of your eyes and reduce your dependence on glasses.

We feel that the best experience and outcomes occur when patients are well-educated about what to expect before, during, and after surgery. Click the button below and our surgical coordinator will reach out to provide a packet of information, answer questions and schedule your consultation if you are ready to proceed.