LASIK laser vision correction is not suitable for everyone. Due to age, previous eye surgeries and other eye conditions, other vision correction options maybe be a better fit. Advancements in IOL (intraocular lens) technology, clear vision without the need for glasses and contact lenses is an option for more people than ever! We encourage you to read about these options and schedule an appointment at Chicago Cornea Consultants™ to learn more!
Refractive Lens Exchange
Traditionally, presbyopia, which happens to all of us as we age, has always meant glasses are necessary for clear reading vision. Presbyopia cannot be corrected with vision correction surgeries such as LASIK. Luckily, there is an option – refractive lens exchange. Refractive lens exchange is allowing patients an alternative to reading glasses by using an advanced multifocal intraocular lens. Here at Chicago Cornea Consultants™, we use Alcon PanOptix trifocal IOL, AMO Tecnis, as well as the Bausch + Lomb Crystalens™, which replaces the eye’s natural lens during refractive lens exchange.
While LASIK concentrates on correcting the cornea, refractive lens exchange replaces the natural lens of your eye with an advanced multifocal or accommodating intraocular lens (IOL), allowing clear vision up close, far away and in between. Additionally, patients undergoing the refractive lens exchange procedure will never have to worry about cataracts as they age, since the advanced intraocular lens will remain clear.
Refractive lens exchange is best suited for older patients who are hyperopic (farsighted) or myopic (nearsighted) and want to lessen their dependence on reading glasses. To find out if a refractive lens exchange is right for you, contact us today!
The Refractive Lens Exchange Procedure
During the refractive lens exchange procedure at Chicago Cornea Consultants™, a small incision is made at the edge of the cornea. A special probe is inserted through the incision to gently break up and suction out the natural lens. An intraocular lens implant is then inserted into place. The entire refractive lens exchange procedure is completed in about 20 to 25 minutes, and visual recovery is rapid.
What are the Benefits of Refractive Lens Exchange?
There are several advantages to the refractive lens exchange procedure, including:
- Quick visual recovery
- Permanent results without the use of a laser
- Eliminates the need for cataract surgery in the future
- Eliminates the dependence on glasses and contact lenses
If you would like to learn more about the exciting opportunities refractive lens exchange has to offer, contact Chicago Cornea Consultants™ today in Chicago, Highland Park or Hoffman Estates to schedule a personal consultation.
