Mark Packer, MD, Medical Director Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) completely eliminates or reduces the need for glasses, including bifocals. It is an alternative procedure to laser vision correction and other refractive surgery procedures. It corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and even presbyopia using new technology intraocular lens implants (IOLs). Presbyopia is a progressive condition typically requiring individuals over the age of 40 to become dependent on reading glasses.
Dr. Packer grew up in California, graduated cum laude from Harvard University, and received his medical degree from the University of California at Davis. He completed his training in Ophthalmology at Boston University Medical Center. Mark Packer, MD, is recognized internationally as a leader in Refractive Lens Exchange, and is acknowledged across the globe for groundbreaking advancements in ophthalmology. Mark Packer’s career demonstrates his dedication to improving care and enhancing outcomes through technological innovation. He strives towards increased safety and providing optimal results for all patients.
RLE is highly safe and successful. Millions of eyes have received IOLs when undergoing cataract surgery using the same highly successful surgical techniques used in RLE. RLE may be the procedure of choice for patients who are too nearsighted, too farsighted, or have corneas that are too thin for laser vision correction. It may also be a viable alternative for those over the age of 40 who wish to eliminate their dependence on bifocals or reading glasses and for those individuals who may be showing signs of developing cataracts.
Nadia Hesham, MD Dr. Hesham obtained a Bachelors of Science in biochemistry and biophysics from Rensselaer Polytchnic Institute in Troy, New York, then received her medical degree from Albany Medical College in Albany NY. She completed her residency in Ophthalmology at Albany Medical Center. Dr. Hesham was inducted into the prestigious Alpha Omega Alpha medical honor society, and was elected chief resident by her peers and faculty. Nadia Hesham’s achievements demonstrate her willingness to go the extra mile for her patients. Her top priority is for her patients to achieve the best vision possible. Please visit our website to learn more about Dr. Packer's and Dr. Hesham's career and accomplishments.
303-499-2020
www.BOULDEREYES.com
1810 30th St. Ste. B. Boulder, CO, 80301
BOULDEREYES BEYER LASIK
ere are three anatomical factors that contribute to how well the eye can focus images: the curvature of the cornea, the power of the eye’s internal natural lens, and the length of the eye. Many vision correction procedures, such as laser vision correction, change the focusing power of the eye by changing the curvature of the cornea. RLE, on the other hand, corrects vision by replacing the eye’s natural lens with an intraocular lens of the appropriate power for each person’s eye length and corneal curvature.
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 micro-incision. 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 home soon 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.
Call now and see if RLE is right for you
BOULDEREYES BEYER LASIK