RLE FAQ’s

You Have Questions, We Have Answers!

We have compiled the following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on Refractive Lens Exchange, commonly heard from patients at our practice.

How long will I be at Ocala Eye Surgery Center for my RLE procedure?

The surgery itself takes approximately 15 minutes but expect to be there for about 2 – 4 hours for preparation and recovery.

If I’m a good candidate for RLE, can I still have LASIK instead?

Maybe. The risk is the effects won’t last and you may find yourself back in glasses in the next couple of years. If you are an RLE candidate, the real issue is in your lens and not your cornea. While LASIK can “get you out of glasses” for distance, it won’t correct the gradual decrease in the quality of your vision due to aging of the crystalline lenses and it won’t correct your near vision like RLE could.

Will RLE surgery hurt?

Surgery is done with a local anesthetic. You will be awake and comfortable. Some patients experience slight discomfort – should this happen, please make your surgeon aware.

How is RLE surgery different than cataract surgery?

RLE and Cataract Surgery are essentially the same procedure. In both procedures, the natural lens of your eye is removed through a small incision and replaced by a premium intraocular lens (IOL). The only difference is that RLE is a totally elective procedure performed to lower your dependence on glasses or contacts. Removing the cataract in Cataract Surgery is performed for medical reasons (for example, adequate vision cannot be achieved with glasses).

Can you perform RLE surgery on both eyes at the same visit?

All doctors, including ours, prefer to do RLE surgery one eye at a time with a couple of weeks in between so that we can ensure the eye is healing properly.

Will I get an implant?

Yes, an Intraocular Lens (IOL) is an artificial lens that will be implanted to replace your eye’s natural lens. This allows you to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses and contacts after surgery.

How long with the lens last in my eye?

The Advanced Lifestyle Lens is a permanent replacement for your natural lens and is made to last the rest of your life. The chance of visual regression is minimal, and you will never need cataract surgery!

Will my vision change over time?

No, but in some patients the tissue behind the lens implant may become cloudy. This is known as capsular fibrosis and can be easily and painlessly treated with a YAG laser.

Will I have sutures after RLE surgery?

We perform no-stitch RLE surgery at Ocala Eye. If necessary, one stitch may be required and placed in a way that the patient will be unaware that it is there and will be slowly absorbed by the body.

When can I wash my hair after surgery?

Right after surgery, but avoid letting water run directly into the eyes.

When can I drive after surgery?

While most patients can safely drive 24 hours after surgery, each patient’s case is evaluated on an individual basis.

When can I go back to work after surgery?

That usually depends on your occupation. Typically, at your one-day post-operative visit, your doctor will check your vision and let you know when you can return to work and other activities.

When can I wear eye makeup after surgery?

Usually the day after your procedure, but you’ll want to avoid lifting heavy weights for at least the first week.

Are the results of RLE permanent?

Yes, the results of RLE are permanent, and you will never need cataract surgery!

Can I swim after surgery?

You may swim two weeks following surgery and can do other water activities such as water aerobics one week after surgery as long as you do not put your head under water.

When can I exercise after surgery?

Usually the day after your procedure, but you’ll want to avoid lifting heavy weights for at least the first week.

Is RLE covered by insurance?

RLE is considered an “elective procedure”, versus a medically necessary procedure so it is not covered by insurance. However, we offer convenient financing options with approved credit, including financing for 24 months. You can enjoy additional savings by using your tax-free FSA (Flexible Spending Account) as well.

See Life Clearly Without Glasses or Contacts!

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