Lens replacement surgery, also known as refractive lens exchange (RLE), is a procedure designed to replace the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to improve vision and reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses. It’s similar to cataract surgery but performed primarily to correct refractive errors and enhance visual clarity. If you’ve been considering vision correction options, you may be wondering whether lens replacement surgery is right for you.
 

Understanding Lens Replacement Surgery

During the procedure, the eye’s natural lens is removed and replaced with a customized IOL. These lenses can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and even presbyopia (age-related loss of near vision). Because the new lens will not develop cataracts, the procedure also provides the added benefit of preventing cataract formation in the future.
 

Not everyone is a good candidate for this type of vision correction. However, many individuals find that it offers a life-changing improvement in vision. You may be a strong candidate if you fit into one or more of the following categories.
 

Adults Over 40 Experiencing Presbyopia

As we age, the eye’s natural lens loses flexibility, making it harder to focus on near objects. Lens replacement surgery can permanently correct presbyopia and reduce the need for reading glasses.
 

Individuals with Significant Refractive Errors

If you are severely nearsighted or farsighted and not a good candidate for LASIK or PRK due to corneal thickness or other issues, lens replacement surgery may be a better solution. It provides excellent visual outcomes without altering the cornea.
 

Patients with Early Signs of Cataracts

Even if cataracts are just beginning to form, replacing the natural lens can restore clear vision and eliminate the need for future cataract surgery. This makes RLE a proactive and lasting solution.
 

People Seeking Long-Term Vision Correction

Unlike laser procedures, which may need adjustments over time, lens replacement surgery offers permanent results. The artificial lens won’t age or degrade, meaning your vision correction remains stable for life.
 

Those in Good Overall Eye Health

Candidates should have healthy retinas, corneas, and optic nerves. Conditions like uncontrolled glaucoma, severe dry eye, or macular degeneration may limit eligibility, so a thorough eye exam is essential before proceeding.
 

Discover if You’re a Candidate for Lens Replacement Surgery in Chino

Lens replacement surgery can provide clear, long-lasting vision for the right candidates - especially adults looking to reduce their dependence on glasses or contacts. If you’re over 40, struggling with presbyopia or early cataracts, or not eligible for laser vision correction, this procedure could be an ideal solution.

At Coastal Vision Medical Group, we specialize in advanced vision correction procedures, including lens replacement surgery. We’ll carefully evaluate your eyes, discuss your vision goals, and determine whether this treatment is right for you. Contact our office in Chino, Irvine, Long Beach, Orange, and Newport Beach, California. Call (888) 501-4496 today to book an appointment today.