If you wear glasses or contact lenses and are looking to reduce reliance on them for  improved vision, it is possible! In the world of refractive ophthalmology, and using the latest  technology, this has now become possible for a growing number of people. Two of the most effective and popular options are Laser Vision Correction and Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE).

Both can reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses but are different procedures, work in different ways, have their own set of considerations, and are suited to different ages and vision needs.

At Hunter Street Eye Specialists, Dr Peter Sumich, who specialises in refractive and laser vision correction , performing  these procedures to help people achieve clear, unaided vision. In this blog we will explain both so you can understand which one might be right for you.

What Is Laser Vision Correction?

Laser Vision Correction (LVC) is a procedure that uses laser to reshape the cornea, the clear front surface of your eye, so that light focuses properly on the retina.

There are a number of technologies used to achieve this based on suitability. These are:

• SMILE (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction) a minimally invasive keyhole procedure, a small piece of tissue (called a lenticule) is created inside the cornea with the laser and removed through a small incision without creating a traditional flap.
• LASIK (Laser-Assisted In Situ Keratomileusis) where a thin flap is created on the cornea, and a laser gently reshapes the underlying tissue.
• PRK (Photorefractive Keratectomy) – where the surface layer of the cornea is temporarily removed before reshaping the tissue beneath.

These procedures are performed as day surgery with a mild sedative and anaesthetic eye drops, and are generally painless, precise, quick, and have a proven record of success. They are typically best suited to people under 45-50 years of age who are short-sighted, long-sighted, or have astigmatism and whose prescription has been stable for at least a year.

Recovery is rapid and most patients enjoy clear vision within 24-48 hours, can return to most normal activities, driving, and work within days. The investment in lifestyle can be life changing. To read more about laser click here.

What Is Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)?

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), sometimes called lens replacement surgery, works differently. Instead of reshaping the cornea, this procedure replaces your eye’s natural lens with a clear artificial lens, also called an Intraocular Lens (IOL) that corrects your vision.

RLE is essentially the same operation as cataract surgery, which is one of the most commonly performed and successful procedures worldwide. The difference is that with RLE, it’s done before cataracts develop.

RLE is often recommended for people aged 45-50 and older, particularly if they’ve begun to notice that their near vision isn’t as sharp as it used to be (a condition known as presbyopia) and that want to achieve clear unaided vision but are not suited to laser vision correction due to age. By replacing the natural lens, RLE can correct both distance and near vision.

Another benefit of RLE is that you will never require cataract surgery as you age as cataracts cannot develop on an artificial lens.

How Do You Know Which Is Best for You?

Here’s a simple guideline:

• If you’re under 45 to 50 years of age, and your lens is still healthy and flexible, Laser Vision Correction is often the best option.
• If you’re over 45 to 50 years of age, beginning to rely on reading glasses, or have early signs of lens changes, Refractive Lens Exchange may be the more suitable, long-term solution.

Why Age and Lens Health Matters

When you’re younger, your eye’s natural lens can still change shape to focus up close. That’s why keeping it and reshaping the cornea with laser vision correction makes sense. It is less invasive and the recovery is quicker.

But as you get older, the lens becomes stiffer and less able to focus hence the need for reading glasses. This is where RLE is an option worth considering. By replacing your natural lens with an artificial lens, you can correct your vision for distance and near, and you’ll never develop cataracts in the future.

Working with an ophthalmologist to understand your best option

In addition to age, your lifestyle and visual goals play an important role in choosing the procedure that is right for you.

Both options can provide those people who are seeking a permanent solution that addresses both reading and distance vision with the freedom they are looking for.

Working with a specialist refractive ophthalmologist who understands the technology available, takes the time to understand your visual goals, and can assess your eye health to provide expert advice as to the most suitable and best option for your individual eyes is critical for achieving long-term success.

At Hunter Street Eye Specialists, Dr Peter Sumich and his supporting team of ophthalmic technicians and optometrists, takes the time to carefully assess your eyes and then tailor a solution that best suits your unique eyes and lifestyle. Using advanced diagnostic technology, he can determine the exact health of your cornea and lens to advise which treatment will give you the safest and most satisfying results.

Matching your eyes to your future

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer when it comes to vision correction. Both Laser Vision Correction and Refractive Lens Exchange offer excellent outcomes when matched to the right eyes and the right stage of life.

Book an obligation free assessment

Hunter Street Eye Specialists specialises in laser vision correction with Dr Peter Sumich, a highly experienced and skilled refractive and laser surgeon available for consulting access to a comprehensive suite of refractive technology and diagnostic equipment for its patient community.

No referral is needed to book in for an assessment to understand your suitability. Please do not hesitate to contact a member of our friendly team on 02 9635 0663 or by filling out the contact form here.