Refractive Lensectomy

RLE and cataract surgery are essentially the same procedure. The difference - RLE is a totally elective procedure done to reduce one’s dependence on glasses or contacts while eliminating the development of cataracts. This procedure is ideal to those over 45 who want to reduce their dependence on glasses or contacts and are not LASIK candidates or those who have early cataracts not qualifying for surgery.

ReSTOR – Aspheric Multifocal IOL - One of the most recent advances in refractive lens implant technology, ReSTOR lens implants are designed to restore near, intermediate and distance vision. Dr. Thames, Dr. Phelan and Dr. McAdams are of a select group of surgeons qualified to implant the ReSTOR lens. ReSTOR is best for someone whose visual priorities are for close up work. ReSTOR does cause mild haloes around lights at night.

TECNIS – Multifocal IOL – The advanced TECNIS Multifocal IOL. Over 94% of study patients said they would choose the TECNIS IOL again. The TECNIS is designed to provide you with high-quality vision at any distance and in all lighting conditions.
Standard Lens Implant – The most widely used implant. This implant offer patients the ability to see arms length to infinity. This IOL is not a multifocal IOL meaning it only has the ability to focus at one distance. If the thought of having to wear reading glasses does not bother you, then this could be the choice for you.

Toric IOL’s for Astigmatism – A remarkable technology for patients who have astigmatism. Until recently, patients with astigmatism had limited options on correcting their vision problem. Now, there is an IOL that has been created specifically for individuals with astigmatism.
These different types of implants are designed to meet individual lifestyles. Talk to your doctor about which lens is right for you. These alternatives are to reduce your dependence on glasses and contacts. It is impossible to guarantee there will be no further need for glasses.

You are a likely candidate for RLE if you are:

• Over the age of 45
• Not a LASIK candidate because you are too nearsighted, too farsighted, have corneas that are to thin, or severe dry eye
• Tired of wearing bifocals or progressives to correct your reading and distance vision
• Suffering from early cataracts that do not qualify for insurance coverage

Drops are used to numb your eye. There are no shots. The natural lens is carefully removed by ultrasound and a lens implant is put in. The procedure is done through a very small incision (2.8mm). There are no stitches. There are no patches. The procedures takes about 12 minutes. Plan on being at the surgery center about one hour.

For our patient’s convenience, we have an onsite surgery center dedicated specifically to eye surgery. Having an onsite surgery center is very unique. Many practices perform surgery at a hospital.

Your decision to have vision correction can be one of the most rewarding decisions of your life. Modern technology allows vision correction surgery to be an safe and accurate procedure. Our professional and well-trained staff will treat you with exceptional care. While many patients come to us for our special expertise, it is our caring approach that keeps them coming back.