Refractive Lens Surgery
WHAT IS REFRACTIVE LENS SURGERY?
Overview
Refractive Lens Surgery (RLE), also known as lens replacement surgery or refractive lens exchange, is a procedure where the eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This corrects common vision problems such as short-sightedness, long-sightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia.
RLE is typically suited to patients in over 45, especially those who are not suitable candidates for laser vision correction or vision requirements will not be met with laser alone.
How Does Refractive Lens Surgery Work?
During the procedure, the natural lens of the eye is gently removed and replaced with a high-performance intraocular lens. Advanced IOLs, such as the Alcon Clareon® PanOptix Pro™ trifocal lens, can restore vision at near, intermediate and far distances.
This technology has been adopted worldwide by leading surgeons, with studies showing that up to 95% of patients experience independence from glasses at all distances after surgery.
Benefits of Refractive Lens Surgery
01
You can enjoy clear, sharp vision every day without the constant blur or dependence on glasses, giving you more freedom and confidence in everything you do.
02
The surgery is safe and precise, carried out by experienced specialists with advanced technology for predictable results.
03
The procedure is quick and comfortable, performed under local anaesthetic with sedation to ensure you stay relaxed throughout.
04
It can correct a wide range of vision problems, including near and farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia.
05
The PanOptix lens enhances contrast, filters harmful UV & blue light, and supports rich, vibrant colour perception.
Is Refractive Lens Surgery Right for You?
Book an appointment with Dr Phillip McGeorge, Principal Ophthalmic Surgeon at Perth Laser Vision, to find out if refractive lens surgery is the right option for you. During your consultation, Dr McGeorge will assess your eye health, vision goals, and lifestyle needs before recommending the most suitable lens implant.
Why choose Dr Phillip McGeorge at Perth Laser Vision?
When it comes to your vision, experience and trust matter most. At Perth Laser Vision, you’ll be cared for by Dr Phillip McGeorge, one of Australia’s most experienced laser eye surgeons, and a dedicated team committed to delivering the very best outcomes.
Perth Laser Vision has consistently led the way in eye surgery, with groundbreaking achievements and firsts in WA, including:
- Over 30,000 laser eye surgeries – more than any other surgeon in Australia
- SMILE lenticule extraction
- Bladeless femtosecond LASIK
- Multifocal implant surgery
- PanOptix Pro Trifocal lenses to reduce dependence on reading glasses
- Corneal inlays for keratoconus treatment
- Rapid (3-minute) corneal cross-linking for keratoconus
With a proven record of innovation and results, you can feel confident knowing your vision is in the most experienced hands.
FAQs
Who is a good candidate for refractive lens surgery?
RLE is typically recommended for people over 40 who have difficulty with near and distance vision, and for those who are not suitable for laser vision correction.
What conditions can refractive lens surgery correct?
Whilst it can correct short-sightedness (myopia), long-sightedness (hyperopia) and astigmatism, its greatest advantage is multifocality in the treatment of presbyopia.
It is not the same as being young again but provides the best technology, to give that lifestyle advantage of seeing both near and far without glasses.
Is the procedure painful?
No, the surgery is typically performed under local anaesthetic eye drops with mild sedation, making it quick and painless, with speedy recover after treatment. You can usually go straight home after surgery.
What type of lens is used?
At Perth Laser Vision, we use a range of advanced intraocular lenses such as the Alcon Clareon® PanOptix Pro™ trifocal lens, designed to improve vision at near and far distances.
How long does the lens last?
The artificial lens is made from inert clear plastic material to be permanent and is designed to last a lifetime without needing replacement.
Is laser eye surgery covered by Medicare?
Unfortunately, the Federal Government has determined that laser eye surgery will not be covered by Medicare as it is considered a lifestyle surgery. It is covered to a variable extent by some private health insurances, including Bupa, Medibank, AHM, Defence Health, Navy Health and HBF. We also provide finance options.
Related blogs
What is the Treatment for Presbyopia: Monovision for Presbyopia
How Painful is Corneal Crosslinking? How Do I Reduce the Pain?
Laser Eye Surgery PRK vs LASIK: Key Differences and How to Choose
Get in touch
Trust your vision with Perth’s most experienced Laser Eye Surgeon, Dr Phillip McGeorge.
MURDOCH
SJOG Murdoch Medical Clinic
Suite 55, 100 Murdoch Drive
Murdoch WA 6150
SUBIACO
28 Churchill Ave
Subiaco WA 6008
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