Alternative for LASIK Surgery
Clear lens exchange (CLE), or clear lens extraction, is an alternative to LASIK eye surgery that can correct
This elective eye surgery, sometimes called clear eye surgery or clear lens surgery, involves replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
Clear lens replacement surgery is an outpatient procedure similar to that used for cataract removal. After removing the eye’s natural lens, the ophthalmologist puts an artificial IOL in its place. The new lens, which is tailored to the individual’s needs, can correct refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism and prevent the need for cataract surgery later in life.
The development of clear lens exchange surgery stems from advances in cataract surgical techniques. Because this vision correction surgery can eliminate the need for contact lenses or glasses, it is most commonly used for patients over 40, who often suffer age-related farsightedness and deteriorating visual acuity.
Clear lens extraction is a more invasive surgery for vision correction compared to LASIK, but it may offer more predictable results for many patients. Rather than reshaping the cornea to reduce the need for corrective lenses, which is the goal of LASIK surgery, clear lens extraction involves the replacement of the lens inside the eye.
This procedure, also called RLE surgery, is most often used for patients with presbyopia, which involves difficulty focusing and becomes morecommon after age 40. However, patients with nearsightedness and farsightedness can also benefit from clear lens replacement. Patients interested in this procedure should consult with one of our board-certified ophthalmologists to ensure it is right for them.
Clear lens extraction offers patients a host of benefits, including dependable results, excellent vision improvement and rapid recovery.
Benefits:
For patients older than 40, clear lens extraction may be a superior option compared to LASIK. Finally, having natural lenses replaced with artificial ones eliminates future cataract risk.
