Is RLE Worth It
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a type of surgery that replaces the natural lens in the eye with an artificial lens in order to correct vision problems such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. RLE can be considered an alternative to the laser vision correction BCLasik offers and is often recommended for people over the age of 50 who have developed presbyopia, which is the natural loss of ability to focus on close-up objects.
While RLE can offer significant benefits to patients, the procedure can be more expensive, often costing several thousand dollars per eye. Below, we will explore why RLE costs so much and why, despite the high cost, it may still be a good solution and investment for some patients.
Cost Of RLE Explained
The high cost of RLE is due to several factors. Firstly, the procedure itself is a delicate and precise process that involves removing the natural lens inside the eye and replacing it with an artificial one. This requires a highly trained and experienced intra-ocular surgeon to be performed correctly and minimize any potential risks. This extra level of expertise and training comes with a higher cost.
Secondly, in addition to the cost of the surgeon, the technology used in RLE is also expensive. The artificial lenses used in RLE are specially designed to provide long-lasting, clear and precise vision. These lenses are made from high-quality materials and are made to last for the rest of one’s life, so they are more expensive.
Benefits Of RLE
Despite the high cost, there are several reasons why RLE may still be the best solution and a good investment for some patients. The first and most apparent benefit is that RLE offers significant improvements to vision and quality of life. With RLE, patients can often enjoy clear and precise vision, free from the need for glasses or contacts. This can be especially important for those who want to engage in activities that require good vision, such as driving or reading, without the hassle of glasses or contact lenses.
Also, unlike LASIK, RLE can fix presbyopia, the inability to focus on close-up objects, can correct high prescriptions, and can be used to treat patients with thin corneas.
Another reason many consider RLE to be a smart investment are the lifelong results it can provide. Unlike traditional LASIK surgery, which typically requires additional procedures as the patient ages and develops cataracts, RLE provides a permanent, unchanging artificial lens to correct vision. This means no further lens-related changes to vision as you age, and no need for cataract surgery later in life.
In conclusion, RLE is a highly specialized and advanced procedure that can offer significant benefits to patients. While the procedure can be quite expensive, it may still be a good investment for those who want lifelong, clear and precise vision. If you are considering RLE, it is important to consult with a qualified and experienced clinic like BCLasik to determine if the procedure is right for you.
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