Patients having RLE now will avoid cataract surgery later in life, because they won’t get cataracts. The primary difference between cataract surgery and RLE is that cataract surgery is performed to remove a patient’s cloudy lens, and RLE is performed to reduce one’s dependence on glasses or contact lenses. RLE is a painless procedure that requires no sutures. The eye is anesthetized to ensure patient comfort during the procedure. Today’s modern surgical techniques allow surgeons to remove the natural lens from the eye, using ultrasonic vibrations through a microincision of 3mm or less. The natural lens is replaced by the intraocular lens, which is inserted through the microincision. Once inside the eye, the lens spontaneously unfolds as it is placed into permanent position. No sutures are required because the small incision is self-sealing. Patients with astigmatism are candidates for RLE. Astigmatism correction can be achieved through Toric Multifocal or Accommodating IOLs, or relaxing incisions. Relaxing incisions can be made in the outer margins of the cornea at the same time RLE is performed. These micro-incisions, called Limbal Relaxing Incisions (LRIs), create a more symmetrical cornea, thereby reducing or eliminating astigmatism.
RLE recovery time is short, allowing patients to go homesoon after the procedure and relax for the rest of the day. RLE is usually performed as an outpatient procedure. Everyone heals somewhat differently, but many patients report improvement in their vision almost immediately, and most resume their normal activities within a day or two. Your vision will continue to improve over time as your brain adapts to your new intraocular lenses. Once stable, your vision is unlikely to change over time. Most vision correction procedures, such as laser vision correction, involve the less invasive process of changing the shape of the cornea. Patients having RLE have minimal risks of experiencing the side effects and complications associated with laser vision procedures. However, since RLE involves surgery inside the eye, there are a number of side effects and complications associated with RLE that are different from corneal procedures. You will be given additional information about these risks that will help you decide if RLE is right for you. Your doctor will be happy to discuss these details and answer any of your questions during your office visit.
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