Refractive Lens Exchange | Riverside Eye Specialists

Refractive Lens Exchange for Clearer Vision

Refractive lens exchange is an emerging option for people looking to surgically correct their vision. It’s an appealing option for those who don’t qualify for a refractive laser eye surgery, such as LASIK, due to corneal thickness or irregularities.

The ophthalmologists at Riverside Eye Specialists strive to provide you with the best vision you can achieve. Book your next visit and see if you’re a candidate for refractive lens exchange.

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How is Refractive Lens Exchange Performed?

Refractive lens exchange is performed in the same fashion a cataract surgery:

Numbing drops are applied to the eye
A small opening is made in the cornea
The natural lens is removed
An artificial lens that enhances vision is put in place
Recovery takes about a week

The artificial intraocular lens is a permanent replacement for the natural lens.

Refractive lens exchange is an outpatient procedure that we’re able to complete in our clinic. Downtime is limited, and you should see improved vision almost at once. However, some people report side effects during the healing process, including:

Blurry vision
Halos around lights
A scratchy feeling

What Conditions can Refractive Lens Exchange Treat?

Refractive lens exchange is a potential alternative for laser eye surgery. It especially shows promise for treating conditions that would remove someone’s candidacy for refractive laser surgery, like irregular corneas or a powerful prescription.

Myopia

Myopia, or nearsightedness, may be treated by refractive lens exchange. However, candidates must be carefully selected, as there’s a greater risk of complications like retinal detachment, especially in those with high myopia. Your ophthalmologist will assess the risk in your unique case and determine your candidacy for this procedure.

Presbyopia

Presbyopia affects most people once they reach their 40s and cannot be corrected with refractive laser eye surgeries like LASIK. Multifocal intraocular lenses may be an effective solution to this common age-associated problem.

Hyperopia

Hyperopia, or farsightedness, shows great promise in being corrected by refractive lens exchange.

Astigmatism

Due to the shape of the cornea, some patients with astigmatism aren’t eligible for refractive laser eye surgery. Replacing the natural lens with a toric intraocular lens has proven to effectively treat astigmatism. Multiple studies have shown excellent outcomes.

Our Location

You can find our practice near the historic downtown Riverside, California. If you have any trouble finding us, give us a call!
To request an appointment please call or text us at 951-686-4911.