What Types of Refractive Errors Can be Corrected with Lens Exchange Surgery?

Refractive errors are a common vision problem that can be corrected with over-the-counter reading glasses or prescription lenses. If you're someone who relies on reading glasses for close-up tasks or has trouble seeing objects in the distance, refractive lens exchange (RLE) may be an ideal solution. 

So, what is refractive lens exchange, and how does this state-of-the-art eye surgery work for presbyopia, nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism? Call now to learn more from refractive lens surgeon Dr. Leslie Emmert-Buck at Capstone Vision & Aesthetics. Book an appointment in Auburn Hills, MI, and start improving your vision. 

What are refractive errors? 

Refractive errors happen when the eye cannot focus light properly on the retina. They can be caused by a misshapen cornea or an irregularly shaped lens. Types of refractive errors include:  

• Presbyopia: Age-related loss of near vision 
• Nearsightedness (myopia): Difficulty seeing objects in the distance 
• Farsightedness (hyperopia): Trouble focusing on nearby objects 
• Astigmatism: Blurred vision at all distances 

If you have any of these refractive errors, you may experience headaches, eye strain, and difficulty driving or reading. While over-the-counter readers provide temporary relief for presbyopia, they don't address the underlying issue and can be inconvenient. For this reason, many people want to know how to treat refractive errors through surgery. 

What is refractive lens exchange? 

So, what is refractive lens exchange, and how does it differ from other types of eye surgery? RLE involves removing the lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This clear IOL can correct presbyopia, nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It can also prevent the development of cataracts, a common age-related eye condition where the lens becomes cloudy and impairs vision. 

Who can benefit from refractive lens exchange? 

RLE is a great option for people in their late 40s to mid-60s with presbyopia and who want to reduce their dependence on drugstore readers. It's also ideal for those with progressive glasses or bifocals who are tired of constantly switching between multiple pairs of glasses. A consultation with Dr. Emmert-Buck in Auburn Hills, MI can determine if RLE is right for your specific vision needs and lifestyle. While the process does involve surgery, patients can rest assured that the process is safe and effective, with a high success rate in improving vision. 

Can RLE treat more than one refractive error at the same time? 

Yes, refractive lens exchange can address multiple refractive errors at once. This means that if you have both age-related near vision loss and issues with distance vision, RLE can correct them at the same time. This is a major benefit for those who don't want to rely on glasses or contacts for all distances. 

Learn how to treat refractive errors with RLE 

Want to know how to treat refractive errors? Are you tired of wearing reading glasses or contacts for every task? Now, you know that RLE is a safe, effective, and long-lasting solution. At Capstone Vision & Aesthetics in Auburn Hills, MI, we can help determine your candidacy for this advanced eye surgery. Book an appointment with refractive lens surgeon Dr. Leslie Emmert-Buck today.