|
Description of Procedure
A refractive lens exchange involves the removal of the human crystalline
lens and insertion of an intraocular lens implant to reduce or eliminate
the eye's refractive error. By inserting a multifocal lens, the majority
of eyes can see at distance and near without the need for glasses.
Patient Process and Procedure
| Prior to your Refractive
Lens Exchange Surgery Day |
 |
Make transportation arrangements.
You should NOT drive yourself home after surgery because
you may be mildly sedated and your eye may be patched.
You will need someone to bring you to your post-operative
visit. At your post-operative exam, your doctor will let you
know when you are able to drive. |
 |
Please remove all facial makeup (lipstick, facial creams, eye makeup etc.) a minimum of 1 day prior
to surgery. For your own safety, surgery may be canceled if makeup
is present. |
 |
Prior to surgery you should
not wear contact lenses in the eye(s) scheduled for surgery because
the corneal shape can be altered. Soft lenses should be removed
for at least two (2) weeks prior to surgery and rigid lenses for three weeks per your doctor's recommendation. A thorough cleaning
of all eyelids should be done the night before and the morning of
surgery. |
| The Day of Refractive Lens Exchange
Surgery |
 |
Please follow our Surgery Center's instructions. You may be able to have a light breakfast and/or
lunch prior to your surgery depending on your surgery appointment time. If you do not usually eat breakfast
or lunch, then do not force yourself to eat. |
 |
Please refrain from
wearing perfume or cologne on your surgery date. Please do not
use any hair products that contain alcohol such as hair spray or
mousse. |
|
Please be aware that after your
surgery your eyes will be irritated and light sensitive. This
usually dissipates within 24 hours after surgery. |
 |
Wear comfortable clothing and
a short-sleeved shirt or blouse that opens down the front. Do
not wear nylons, stockings or support garments. Men, do NOT wear
t-shirts. |
| After Refractive Lens Exchange
Surgery |
 |
You must keep the protective glasses
or shield provided on your eye(s) while you sleep for the first
week. |
 |
Post-Operative Medication: You will be given a post-op kit containing prescription drops, an
eye shield and tape to be used for protection while sleeping, and
written instructions. Before using your eye drops, your hands must
be clean. Please use the drops as instructed-if you run out of drops,
let us know. At your post-operative appointments your doctor will
give instructions to use additional drops if necessary, and when
to discontinue use. You may use preservative-free lubricating drops
if your eyes feel dry-a sample is included in your post-operative
kit. |
|
Post-Operative Symptoms: The
amount of discomfort you will experience cannot be predicted-some
patients feel an itchy or foreign body sensation, others are light
sensitive or see halos around lights, and others may be symptom-free.
Your vision may fluctuate during the day. If
you have severe pain, sudden change in vision, or need explanations,
call our office any time day or night at (541) 687-2110 / 800-452-2040. |
Related Information About Refractive Lens
Exchange:
|
Feel free to call or drop in if you'd like to speak to someone in person.
Commonly Asked Questions
How soon after surgery will I see well?
Most patients notice an immediate improvement in vision. For most people,
near, far and intermediate vision continues to improve over the next
few weeks. Vision contines to improve as you adjust to seeing through
the multifocal lens.
Will refractive surgery hurt?
The procedure takes about fifteen minutes and is usually painless.
Will I still need my glasses or contacts?
The goal of refractive surgery is to reduce your dependence on glasses
and/or contact lenses.
Will my insurance cover RLE?
Most health care coverage considers RLE surgery an elective surgical
procedure and does not cover it. For our RLE patients, we highly
recommend CareCredit® or ChaseHealth Advance. |
