If you’ve had LASIK surgery in the past, you might wonder if it’s possible to have the procedure again, especially as your vision changes over time. A common concern for those over 45 is presbyopia—a condition that affects near vision. If you are experiencing age-related near vision loss after LASIK surgery, Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) might be an ideal solution to achieve clearer vision.
Why Your Vision Changes After LASIK
- LASIK reshapes the cornea to correct distance vision issues.
- Presbyopia, however, affects the eye’s lens, which naturally hardens and loses flexibility with age.
- If you had LASIK years ago, presbyopia is likely unrelated to the initial correction.
Can You Have LASIK Again?
In some cases, a LASIK enhancement can be performed. However, this is usually only if your cornea still has enough thickness for further reshaping. LASIK is not designed to address presbyopia or age-related lens changes. This is where RLE comes in.
What Is Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)?
RLE is a surgical procedure that replaces the natural lens of the eye with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).2 It is similar to cataract surgery but performed to correct presbyopia and improve vision.
Key Points About RLE:
- Ideal for individuals aged 45 and older
- Addresses presbyopia directly by replacing the lens
- Can provide both near and distance vision correction
Are You a Candidate for RLE?
If you’ve had LASIK and now struggle with near vision due to presbyopia, consider these factors:
- Age: RLE is most beneficial for those 45 or older.
- Lens Condition: If your natural lens has started losing flexibility, RLE might be right for you.
- Previous Eye Health: A thorough evaluation will confirm if your eye is healthy enough for lens surgery.
Benefits of RLE for Those with Prior LASIK
- Lasting Vision Improvement: Unlike LASIK, RLE replaces the lens, which doesn’t change with age.
- Reduced Risk of Needing Glasses: Helps you see clearly at various distances.
- Potential Cataract Prevention: Replacing the lens prevents cataracts from forming in the future.3
1 Mayo Clinc. Presbyopia. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/presbyopia/symptoms-causes/syc-20363328#. Accessed November 1, 2024.
2 Cleveland Clinic. Refractive Lens Exchange. https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24840-refractive-lens-exchange. Accessed November 1, 2024.
3 Review of Ophthalmology. A Review of Refractive Lens Exchange. https://www.reviewofophthalmology.com/article/a-review-of-refractive-lens-exchange. Accessed November 1, 2024.
