Do you find yourself struggling with night driving due to glare, or is your vision becoming progressively cloudy? If you are experiencing changes in your sight, you may be a candidate for either cataract surgery or Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE). While both are common lens-based procedures, they address different visual needs.
At ADV Vision in San Luis Obispo County, we are here to guide you to the right solution for your eyes.
The Condition of Your Natural Lens
The fundamental difference between these two surgeries lies in the condition of the eye’s natural lens.
- Cataract Surgery is performed when the natural lens becomes clouded, a common condition as we age. The lens loses its transparency, leading to blurry, faded, or dim vision that glasses can no longer correct. The surgery’s purpose is to remove this clouded lens and restore clear sight.
- Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is an elective procedure to correct vision problems. It replaces a clear but aging lens that has lost its flexibility, a condition called presbyopia. This procedure allows you to see clearly at multiple distances and is often a solution for those who want to be free from reading glasses or high-prescription eyewear.
In essence, cataract surgery is a medical necessity to treat a disease, while RLE is a proactive measure for vision correction. Both procedures, however, follow a very similar surgical process.
The Surgery: Simple & Life-Changing
Both cataract surgery and RLE are efficient outpatient procedures. An expert ophthalmologist creates a small incision and gently removes the eye’s natural lens. They then insert a new, advanced artificial lens, called an Intraocular Lens (IOL), into its place. This new lens provides permanent, clear vision. The procedure for each eye is quick, typically lasting only about 15 minutes, allowing you to return home the same day to begin your recovery.
Who is a Candidate for Lens Replacement?
Deciding on the right procedure depends on your age and the current state of your vision.
- Cataract Surgery is for those who have a visually significant cataract that is affecting their daily life. This typically applies to individuals over 60 whose vision has become hazy or dim, and who experience issues like glare or colors appearing less vibrant.
- RLE is an excellent option for individuals typically aged 45-60 who are dealing with presbyopia or a high prescription. A significant benefit of RLE is that by replacing the natural lens, you eliminate any chance of developing cataracts in the future.
Your Custom Vision Plan: IOLs
Both surgeries involve selecting an Intraocular Lens (IOL) to match your vision goals. We offer a range of advanced IOLs, including the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL), which allows for post-surgery fine-tuning, as well as Multifocal, Toric, and Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) lenses to correct for multiple distances or astigmatism. We also offer standard Monofocal lenses that provide clear vision at a single distance. We will work with you to find the perfect lens for your needs.
A Patient’s Clear View
Dr. Adam Abroms did my cataract surgeries. I felt the preparation was thorough, including multiple eye measurements, general health assessment, and retinal scans. Links to videos about lens options provided the basics to make informed choices, and Dr. Abroms let me know which of those lenses would work with my own eyes. Melody was very helpful a as a patient liason/counselor in working up a plan of action for me to poceed, including appointment dates, insurance coverage information, and my final cost. I used the office in SLO on California Blvd, and Paragon Surgery Center across from the SLO airport. The surgeries were easy and essentially painless. I am very pleased with the final result, and would do it again without hesitation.” – Review for San Luis Obispo
The ADV Advantage: Local Care You Can Trust
From our offices in San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, and Santa Maria, ADV Vision is a leader in eye care on the Central Coast. Our board-certified ophthalmologists are committed to providing personalized, state-of-the-art care using the latest technology to ensure a successful outcome for every patient.
Ready for a Life Without Limits?
Ready to find out which procedure is right for you? It’s time to take the next step toward reclaiming your sight.
