Refractive Lens Exchange, Clear Lens Extraction and Clear Lens Replacements
This procedure uses the same highly advanced technique practiced during routine cataract surgery. This accurate process involves the surgical removal of the natural lens of the eye. It is then replaced with an artificial lens implant calculated specifically for the necessary amount of nearsightedness or farsightedness.
This surgery does involve a slightly greater degree of surgical intervention so it is usually reserved for those patients who do not fit the criteria for LASIK. These are patients with higher degrees of nearsightedness or farsightedness which are not safely treated with laser vision correction or those patients with cataract changes.
The surgeons at the Shepherd Eye Center perform more cataract procedures with artificial lens implantations than anyone else in Nevada and therefore have extensive experience to accurately recommend this procedure to those patients it will benefit the most.
One of the greatest advantages of this surgery is our ability to use the latest high tech lens implants (Crystalens 5.0 ReSTOR, and Tecnis intraocular lenses) providing multifocal vision. This exciting advancement in lens technology allows patients to see both distance and near, even for those patients over the age of forty who might otherwise need bifocals or reading glasses. One added benefit: these patients will never need cataract surgery since the natural lens that turns cloudy with a cataract has already been removed!
There are many financing plans available to fit within any budget. Please contact our office for more information.
The doctors at the Shepherd Eye Center are highly qualified and skilled surgeons who have excellent training and experience with a refractive lens exchange procedure known to many as CLE or clear lens extraction. The advancements in modern cataract surgery have actually made this surgical process reality and a solution that can correct vision for many. Patients often describe these lens implants as “vibrant and colorful.” Please consult your eye doctor to find out if this procedure would help you see better at all distances.
For individuals over 40 who are considering refractive surgery to decrease dependence on glasses and contact lenses, clear lens extraction (CLE) is an excellent option worthy of serious consideration. Like cataract surgery, this procedure involves removing the natural lens of the eye and replacing it with an intraocular lens (IOL) implant, a multifocal IOL implant, a phakic IOL, or an accommodating IOL. Please consult directly with our doctors to determine what IOL is right for you and your unique vision.
Other types of refractive surgery, such as LASIK laser vision correction, accomplish good vision by changing the shape of your cornea. Unlike these other refractive procedures that change the shape of the cornea, CLE corrects vision by removing the natural lens in the eye and replacing it with a new artificial lens of different focusing power. This is exactly the same process used during cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is currently one of the top procedures reimbursed by Medicare and millions of cataracts are removed every year.
