Procedures

LASIK :: IntraLase :: PRK (PHOTOREFRACTIVE KERATECTOMY)
LASEK :: EPI-LASIK :: CK (CONDUCTIVE KERATOPLASTY)
AK (ASTIGMATIC KERATOTOMY) :: RL (REFRACTIVE LENSECTOMY)
ICL (IMPLANTABLE CONTACT LENS)

RL (REFRACTIVE LENSECTOMY)

This technique may also be called clear-lens extraction. The natural lens of the eye is removed and replaced with a lens implant. This can give the eye clear vision with little or no need for glasses. RL may be the best procedure to correct refractive errors for people over 50. New multifocal IOLs (intraocular lenses), such as the Restor, Crystalens and Technis, enable patients to see at a range of distances thus potentially eliminating the need for reading glasses. Alternatively, where a monovision outcome is required, intraocular lenses provide one eye with distance and the other with close vision. More than three million intraocular lenses are inserted into cataract patients' eyes every year and these lenses are expected to last a lifetime. It is a very safe procedure that takes 15 to 20 minutes. Precise measurements are taken, with a special laser, before the operation to enable the correct lens power to be chosen. Most patients notice dramatic improvement in their vision within 24 hours of surgery but strenuous exercise or lifting should be avoided for up to two weeks. Because the natural lens is removed, glasses may still be required for close up work, although it is unlikely that your eyes will undergo the usual aging changes.