Clear Lens Exchange

Clear lens exchange (CLE), also called refractive lens exchange (RLE), is a technique involving the removal of the crystalline lens from the eye using ultrasound and replacing the natural lens with an intraocular implant lens that allows clear vision for distance and near vision.

Clear Lens exchange is becoming increasingly popular as an alternative to LASIK or other refractive procedures for patients with a high degree of nearsightedness or farsightedness. CLE does not change the shape of the cornea; instead the focusing power of the natural lens is restored by replacing the natural lens with an intraocular lens (IOL) such as ReSTOR®, and ReZoom™.

For those who are over 40 and are very nearsighted or very farsighted with early cataract formation, CLE may help to reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses or contacts. Any surgical procedure comes with inherent risks. The risks associated with CLE are similar to that of cataract surgery. For some patients, Clear Lens Exchange can be a great alternative to LASIK.