The Pros and Cons of Lens Replacement Surgery

If you’re considering lens replacement surgery, weighing up the pros and cons is an absolute must. Laser Vision is here to help you explore the benefits and potential drawbacks of this vision correction procedure.

What is lens replacement surgery?

Lens replacement surgery, sometimes referred to as refractive lens exchange (RLE) or clear lens exchange (CLE), is a vision correction procedure that involves replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

It’s a common ophthalmological procedure that can significantly improve vision for patients with various eye conditions. There are several types of lens replacement surgeries, each designed to address specific visual impairments.

Cataract surgery

Cataract surgery is the most frequently performed lens replacement procedure. It involves removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

This type of surgery not only restores clear vision but it can also correct refractive errors, potentially reducing the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Phakic intraocular lens implantation

PIOL implantation is another option, particularly for younger patients with high myopia or hyperopia. In this procedure, an artificial lens is implanted in front of the natural lens, which remains intact. This allows for correcting severe refractive errors without removing the eye’s natural focusing ability.

Refractive lens exchange

Refractive lens exchange, also known as clear lens extraction, is similar to cataract surgery but is performed on patients without cataracts. This procedure is often recommended for individuals with presbyopia or extreme refractive errors that cannot be corrected with laser eye surgery.

The Advantages of Lens Replacement Surgery

The key advantages of lens replacement surgery include:

• Correcting refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism
• Preventing the development of cataracts by replacing the eye lens and thus the need for future cataract surgery
• Improving distance, intermediate, and near vision with advanced artificial lens options
• Reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses
• Providing a safe and effective alternative to laser vision correction for patients with thin corneas

The Potential Drawbacks of Lens Replacement Surgery

Although rare, it’s important to be aware of the potential risks and limitations of this type of vision correction surgery:

• Increased risk of complications compared to other vision correction procedures
• Possibility of developing visual side effects like glare, halos, or reduced night vision
• Need for reading glasses or bifocals for some patients, depending on the type of intraocular lens used
• Higher cost compared to other vision correction options
• Longer recovery time compared to laser eye surgery

It’s crucial to have a thorough discussion with a qualified refractive surgeon to understand your unique vision needs, and the available lens options and set realistic expectations for the outcomes of lens replacement surgery.

What happens during eye lens replacement surgery?

At Laser Vision, lens replacement surgery is conducted under local anaesthesia administered via eye drops. The procedure lasts approximately 20-30 minutes for each eye.

During the operation, your consultant ophthalmic surgeon creates a small incision to extract your natural lens and insert a replacement.

Your new lens options include mono-focal, multifocal (bifocal), toric (for astigmatism correction), phakic intraocular, or pseudo-accommodative intraocular premium lens implants. In some cases, a combination of lenses may be necessary to achieve optimal vision correction.

We prioritise precision by taking accurate eye measurements before your refractive lens exchange. This enables us to create customised lenses that address various vision issues and ensure the best possible outcome for each patient while minimising risks to your eye health.

Who is suitable for lens replacement surgery?

Lens replacement surgery is often recommended for those aged 40 and above, as the eye lens begins to lose its flexibility and ability to focus at this stage of life. Younger patients may be better suited to other vision correction procedures.

In terms of vision issues, those with moderate to severe refractive errors, such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), or astigmatism, are typically good candidates. Lens replacement surgery can provide a permanent solution to correct these vision problems.

Get in Touch

For more information about lens replacement surgery, please get in touch to book a consultation at one of our world-class facilities near you.