What is Refractive Lens Exchange?

Who is Refractive Lens Exchange Suitable For?

Many treatment methods are applied today to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. These include excimer laser (iLASIK, LASEK, PRK), astigmatic keratotomy, refractive lens exchange, and others. Among these, the most preferred is the excimer laser (iLASIK, LASEK, PRK) method, also known as laser treatment. However, certain age levels, ideal corneal thickness, corneal map, and specific eye numbers are required for laser treatment. Excimer laser treatment may not always be the ideal treatment for your eyes, so alternative treatment methods have been developed for these eyes. One of the safest, permanent, and stable treatment methods among these is refractive lens exchange.

How is the Pre-Operative Evaluation for Refractive Lens Exchange Done?

Your doctor will first evaluate your vision level and determine your glasses prescriptions. Following this evaluation, a biometry measurement will be taken to determine the number of the lens to be implanted inside the eye. During this measurement, our staff will ask you to look steadily ahead after numbing your eye with drops. The lens numbers will be determined within minutes during the short procedure.

Is It Safe to Have Laser Surgery After Refractive Lens Exchange?

There is no harm in having laser surgery after refractive lens exchange surgery.

Is Cataract Surgery Necessary After Refractive Lens Exchange?

Since your natural lens is removed, there is absolutely no need for cataract surgery for life.

What Should I Pay Attention to Before the Operation?

Days before the operation, blood thinners such as aspirin, coumadin, etc., should be discontinued. Our anesthesiologist will inform patients who will receive general anesthesia about fasting times. Local anesthesia is generally preferred. Patients receiving local anesthesia can come after having a light breakfast or meal without any issues.

How Will the Operation Be Performed?

Before the operation, you will be given a sedative in your room. The operation can be performed under local anesthesia and sedation. Your doctor will administer local anesthetic drops to prevent your eye from moving and feeling pain. Usually, no pain is felt during the operation, only a slight touch sensation may occur. Patients with local anesthesia can communicate with the doctor as they will be awake.

After sterilizing your eye, a small instrument will be placed to keep your eyelids open. During the operation, a small incision is made in the cornea layer of your eye. Your existing lens is removed with the phaco device, and a clear lens that will free you from your glasses is placed. Generally, no stitches are placed in your eye unless there are special conditions. The operation duration is approximately 5-10 minutes.

What Will I Feel After the Operation?

After the surgery, you will be taken to your room to rest. There is no harm in going home after a few hours of rest. Your eye will remain closed on the day of the operation. During the time your eye is closed, pain and a stinging sensation may occur, which is normal. You can take painkillers if necessary. You will return for a check-up the day after the operation, and your doctor will instruct you on how to use your prescribed drops. Redness, watering, and light sensitivity may develop in your eye, especially in the first days after the operation. Blurred vision may continue for a few weeks, and fluctuating or blurry vision may persist during the day. These symptoms will pass as you use your drops. Do not rub your eyes hard; avoid letting water and soap get into your eyes in the first days.

What Are the Risks of Refractive Lens Exchange Surgery?

After the operation, you will be free from depending on your glasses as before. Astigmatism, myopia, or hyperopia will be treated with the lens implanted in your eye. The degree of the lens to be implanted in the eye is determined by the biometry measurement performed before the operation. Each eye degree and structure are different. If astigmatism or myopia-hyperopia persists, there is no harm in having a second session of excimer laser treatment. However, your doctor will inform you about this by evaluating corneal thickness and the map with detailed corneal topography and pachymetry measurements. You absolutely do not carry the risk of developing cataracts in the future. The lens implanted in your eye during the operation will sharpen your distance vision.