Who is not suitable for lens replacement surgery?

Lens replacement surgery, also known as refractive lens exchange (RLE), is a life-changing procedure that corrects vision by replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial one. It is commonly used to treat presbyopia, cataracts, and high refractive errors. However, not everyone is a suitable candidate for this procedure. In this blog, we’ll explore the key factors that may make someone ineligible for lens replacement surgery and what alternatives may be available.

1. Individuals with Unstable Vision

If your prescription has been changing frequently, it may indicate that your vision has not yet stabilised. Surgeons typically recommend waiting until your prescription has been stable for at least a year before considering lens replacement surgery.

2. People with Certain Eye Conditions

Some pre-existing eye conditions can make lens replacement surgery risky or ineffective. These include:

• Severe Dry Eye Syndrome – Chronic dry eyes can affect healing and increase discomfort after surgery. Prior treatment with intense pulsed light (IPL) may be beneficial.
• Glaucoma – If you have advanced glaucoma, the procedure may increase intraocular pressure, worsening the condition.
• Macular Degeneration – Progressive retinal diseases may not be improved with lens replacement and require specialized treatment.
• Corneal Disorders – Conditions like keratoconus or corneal scarring can impact visual outcomes.

3. Patients with Uncontrolled Diabetes

Diabetes can lead to fluctuating vision and complications such as diabetic retinopathy, which can affect the success of lens replacement surgery. If your diabetes is not well-managed, your surgeon may recommend delaying the procedure.

4. Individuals with Unrealistic Expectations

Lens replacement surgery can significantly improve vision, but it does not always provide perfect eyesight. Some patients may still need glasses for certain tasks. Understanding realistic outcomes is essential before undergoing surgery.

5. Those with a High Risk of Complications

Certain health conditions or medications can increase the risk of complications during and after surgery. For example:

• Autoimmune diseases (such as lupus or rheumatoid arthritis) can impact healing.
• Blood-thinning medications may increase the risk of bleeding.
• Previous eye surgeries that resulted in complications may make further procedures more challenging.

Find Out If You’re a Candidate

The best way to determine if lens replacement surgery is right for you is to take our suitability self-test. Our team at MY Eye Clinic is here to guide you through the process and help you explore the best vision correction options for your needs.

Take our suitability self-test today to see if lens replacement surgery is right for you!