Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) in San Diego, CA

During refractive lens exchange (RLE), selecting the right lens is essential.

Traditional monofocal and toric lenses provide crisp distance vision (toric also treats astigmatism), while multifocal and extended-depth-of-focus lenses can expand your range of vision with potential trade-offs such as halos for some patients. The Light Adjustable Lens lets us fine-tune your prescription after surgery with a series of quick, in-office light treatments before a final “lock-in,” personalizing results to your real-world visual needs. Watch the video below for an overview of the differences between fixed and adjustable lenses.

You may be a good candidate for Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery if:

• You are over 40 and experiencing presbyopia (difficulty reading small print)

• You have extreme farsightedness (hyperopia) or mild nearsightedness (myopia)

• You are not eligible for LASIK or PRK due to thin corneas

• You want a long-term vision correction solution that eliminates the need for glasses

• You are looking to prevent cataracts in the future

If any of these describe you, schedule a consultation with our expert refractive lens exchange doctors at Clearview today to determine if RLE is the right choice for your vision.

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) surgery replaces your eye’s natural lens with an artificial one to correct vision. Curious how it works? These are the steps involved below.

Before your Refractive Lens Replacement Eye Surgery, our experienced doctors will perform a detailed eye exam to evaluate your vision needs, eye health, and lifestyle preferences. We will determine the best intraocular lens (IOL) option for you, whether it’s a monofocal, multifocal, or toric lens.

At ClearView Eyes, we offer premium intraocular lenses customized to each patient’s needs:

• Monofocal Lenses – Provides clear vision at one distance (usually distance vision).

• Multifocal Lenses – Offers both near and far vision correction, reducing the need for glasses.

• Toric Lenses – Corrects astigmatism while also improving distance and near vision.
• Extended Depth‑of‑Focus (EDOF) - A seamless “stretch” of focus from arm’s length (computer distance) to far away, with fewer halos than some multifocals. You may still need mild readers for tiny print.
• Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) - The only lens we can fine‑tune after surgery using targeted UV light sessions. Think of it as dialing in a custom glasses prescription—inside your eye.

The Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery is a quick, outpatient procedure that typically takes 15-20 minutes per eye. The process includes:

1. Anesthetic Eye Drops – Your eyes will be numbed for a comfortable, pain-free experience.
2. Femtosecond Laser - We use gentle laser pulses to soften your natural lens
3. Micro-Opening – A small opening is made to remove your natural lens.
4. Lens Implantation – The artificial fixed or adjustable lens is inserted to replace your natural lens.
5. Rapid Recovery – Most patients experience improved vision within 24-48 hours.

• Most patients resume normal activities within a few days.

• You may experience mild sensitivity or glare for the first few weeks.

• Follow-up visits ensure proper healing and vision improvement.

Our dedicated team at ClearView Eyes provides personalized post-operative care to make your recovery smooth and successful. Below, our patient Dennis describes his experience undergoing a Refractive Lens Exchange at Clearview

Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery offers a permanent solution for clearer vision and aging eyes. Ideal for those over 40, it’s safe, effective, and quick. Explore the step-by-step process below.

1. Eliminates the Need for Glasses or Contacts. With Refractive Lens Replacement Surgery, you no longer have to rely on reading glasses or contact lenses to see clearly. Patients with presbyopia and extreme farsightedness achieve sharp, natural vision at multiple distances.
2. Permanent Vision Correction. Unlike LASIK, which reshapes the cornea, Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) permanently replaces the natural lens, providing lifelong clarity without regression.
3. Prevents Cataracts. Since the eye’s natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens, cataracts can no longer form. This means Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery not only improves vision but also eliminates the need for future cataract surgery.
4. Customizable Lens Options. Patients can choose between a variety of fixed intraocular lenses or a Light Adjustable Lenses, tailored to their vision needs. Whether you want clear distance vision, reduced dependence on glasses, or correction for astigmatism, we have the right solution for you.
5. Quick Recovery & Minimal Downtime. Most patients resume normal activities within a few days, with full recovery in about 2-4 weeks. ClearView Eyes provides comprehensive post-operative care to ensure a smooth healing process.

At ClearView Eyes, our mission is to provide the highest quality Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery using the latest advancements in vision correction. Our team of experienced refractive lens exchange doctors has helped thousands of patients achieve crystal-clear, glasses-free vision.

• Highly Skilled Surgeons – Our board-certified ophthalmologists specialize in vision correction procedures, ensuring exceptional results.

• State-of-the-Art Technology – We use femtosecond laser-assisted techniques for greater precision and faster recovery.

• Personalized Treatment Plans – We evaluate your vision needs and recommend the best intraocular lens (IOL) or Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) for your lifestyle.

• Exceptional Patient Care – From consultation to recovery, our team is dedicated to providing unparalleled care and support.

• Trusted in San Diego – We are a top choice for Refractive Lens Exchange in San Diego, with a reputation for excellence.

Q1: Is Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery Painful?

Ans: No, Refractive Lens Replacement Eye Surgery is virtually painless. We use numbing drops, and most patients experience little to no discomfort.

Q2: How Long Does the Procedure Take?

Ans: Each eye takes approximately 15-20 minutes, and the entire process, including preparation and recovery, takes about 2 hours.

Q3: How Soon Will I See Results?

Ans: Most patients experience significant vision improvement within 24-48 hours, with full stabilization in a few weeks.

Q4: Can I Have Refractive Lens Exchange if I’ve Had LASIK Before

Ans: Yes! Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery is a great option for patients who have had LASIK but are now developing presbyopia or early cataracts.

Q5: How Long Does the Lens Last?

Ans: The artificial intraocular lens (IOL) or Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) are designed to last a lifetime, eliminating the need for future vision correction.

If you are tired of relying on glasses and want a long-term solution for clear vision, Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery may be the perfect choice for you.

Schedule a consultation today with ClearView Eyes to learn how our expert refractive lens exchange doctors can help transform your vision.

Call us at (858) 452-3937 or visit ClearView Eyes for more information.

Experience clearer vision for life with Refractive Lens Replacement Eye Surgery at ClearView Eyes!