Can Refractive Lens Exchange Improve Nearsighted Vision?

Myopia, or nearsightedness, is a condition that causes objects to appear blurry from far away. Even if you do not require glasses to look at a book or magazine, reading signs from a distance could prove more difficult. Seasoned ophthalmologist Dr. Young H. Choi offers refractive lens exchange (RLE) to correct this common vision concern.

So, what is RLE, and what causes nearsighted vision in the first place? Lens replacement surgery is a wonderful treatment option to improve refractive errors and help eliminate the possibility of cataracts in the future. Contact Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center near Birmingham, AL to begin the process and address problems with severe nearsightedness.

What causes nearsighted vision?

Medical professionals believe that nearsightedness is related to heredity and genetics. Myopia is most often noticed in children as their eyes develop and grow. However, some experts believe it is tied to the stress of reading too closely to books and computers for prolonged periods of time. Severe nearsightedness in adults may be caused by a curved cornea. Birmingham, AL patients will need to visit with a trained ophthalmologist for treatment.

Some people with myopia do not get visual aids, like glasses or contact lenses, because they can see close-up objects clearly. This is not advisable because tasks like driving could become dangerous quickly. If glasses are not a preferable option, corrective surgery might be the answer. A refractive lens exchange is recommended for adults with severe nearsightedness or farsightedness who are not eligible for laser eye surgery.

Symptoms related to nearsightedness include:

• Excessive blinking

• Persistent squinting

• The need to sit closer to the TV

• The need to hold books close while reading

Should I get a refractive lens exchange?

In a refractive lens exchange, your natural lens is removed through a small incision and replaced with an artificial one. If you are one of the many patients who are interested in this procedure, Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center offers in-depth resources to keep you well-informed. Dr. Choi can determine if you are a qualified candidate during a private consultation. Generally, an RLE is recommended for patients who are not eligible for LASIK or similar laser refractive procedures.

How is lens replacement surgery performed?

A refractive lens exchange is similar to traditional cataract surgery. The difference is that patients do not have cataracts and opt to replace their clear lens with an artificial one. Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center can perform this procedure in just a short amount of time at our facility. We will administer numbing eye drops and a gentle sedative to make sure you feel comfortable. Afterward, patients will receive take-home instructions and guidelines for optimal healing.

Treat nearsighted vision

Even though there is no natural cure for myopia, there are steps patients can take to improve their eye health. A visit with a skilled ophthalmologist is a great place to start. Dr. Young H. Choi may recommend lens replacement surgery so you can see objects at all distances. Visit Young H. Choi, M.D. Eye Surgery Center near Birmingham, AL to begin the process and learn how this procedure works. We can help you decrease your dependence on visual aids and reduce your risk of getting cataracts in the future.