It can be very worrying for people who have cataracts. Gradually the cataract spreads and grows and as it does so eyesight becomes even worse. Rather than let this happen it is possible to undergo eye vision correction treatment. Refractive lens exchange offers an excellent solution for removing cataracts. The way it works is simple. The lens of the eye that has become hardened and cloudy is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. The new lens cannot become hardened in the future so once in place, cataracts will never be a problem again.

One of the biggest benefits of getting refractive lens exchange (RLE) is that as well as removing cataracts it can also correct refractive errors. Refractive errors such as myopia and hyperopia, these are more commonly known as long and short sightedness. Because RLE replaces the natural lens of the eye with an artificial lens the lens can be tailored to your prescription so that perfect vision can be restored.

This procedure is also perfect for people who suffer from astigmatism, a condition which makes many forms of eye surgery an unsuitable choice. Astigmatism is when the cornea is oval instead of being round as it should be. As a result this causes the person to have some blurred and distorted vision, this is often corrected by the use of spectacles and contact lenses.

The refractive lens exchange surgery is ideal for those over the age of 50 who want to have their youthful vision restored. Although the procedure may sound a little daunting, in fact it only takes around 20 minutes per eye and is very safe. There are very few risks involved with having refractive lens exchange. There may be a small amount of swelling following the procedure or the eyes may itch, but these symptoms will disappear with eye drops. A follow up consultation will be necessary with the surgeon in the week following the surgery. During this session the eyes will be tested to check they are healing well and the sight has been restored. Sometimes patients may need a little fine tuning but this is simple and should not involve another surgery.

Often patients worry about having to take a lot of time off work for this. The reality is that just one or two days off will be all that is needed. If the patient works in a very dusty or smoky environment then additional time off may be required, but for most people normal life can return just a few days after the operation. When patients have the procedure done they should ensure there is someone to collect them from the hospital. If they are using a taxi service, make sure the taxi driver knows that extra assistance may be required.

Once the patient has arrived home following the surgery they should ensure that they get plenty of rest and this includes resting their eyes as much as possible. The surgeon will provide them with specific instructions on what to do following the treatment, but ultimately a good night’s sleep will make them and their eye’s feel much better and ready to tackle the next day.

There is no doubt that refractive lens exchange can dramatically change a person’s quality of life. From going blind or wearing very strong glasses to having youthful vision that is bright and clear can make a huge difference. There is a cost involved of course, however the improvement to life is well worth it. People who want to find out more about refractive lens exchange and if it is right for them should contact their nearest eye hospital to discuss the options available, most hospitals will offer a free consultation where the patient can discuss their options find out if the procedure is right for them and get all their questions answered in a no obligation setting.

Refractive lens exchange is available at specialist eye hospitals throughout the UK. There is a Yorkshire eye hospital that provides this service and several others besides. Contact your nearest eye hospital to discuss all the eye vision correction services available. These include a variety of laser eye surgeries and more. There is help available if you are suffering from cataracts and worry that you are losing your vision.