The process of replacing the eye’s natural lens with a clear, leading-edge artificial lens implant is known as CUSTOM LENS REPLACEMENT and is often referred to as refractive lens exchange (RLE). Because of its versatility and effectiveness, Custom Lens Replacement permanently improves vision and is our most recommended option for custom vision correction at 43Vision.
Custom Lens Replacement procedures reduce refractive error while treating presbyopia, astigmatism, nearsightedness (myopia), and farsightedness (hyperopia) while minimizing or completely eliminating the need for reading glasses and bifocals. Additionally, it eliminates the risk of developing cataracts, preventing the need for cataract surgery in the future.
When considering a custom lens replacement, patients want to know what to expect during the recovery period. In this article, we will discuss the recovery time following a custom lens replacement procedure and answer other frequently asked questions about the healing process. To learn more about custom lens replacement and to schedule your consultation, call 43Vision today!
How long does it take to recover from custom lens replacement?
Lens Replacement patients all heal slightly differently, but most patients should all end up with the same result: improved eyesight and the freedom to do more of what they want in life. After a refractive lens exchange at 43Vision, the initial healing phase typically lasts one week. At this point, the majority of the patient’s daily activities should be resumed.
After having eye surgery, the majority of patients with a considerable correction will immediately notice that their vision without a corrective lens is better than it was before. However, they will still have dilated pupils, which will result in some blurred vision. When the pupil goes back to its original size, eyesight should noticeably improve.
After the procedure, the patient’s visual acuity and visual perception should have improved, and in 24 hours, distance vision should be back to normal. Usually, it takes longer for reading vision and up-close focus to get better with implantable contact lenses, but with a multifocal IOL, reading vision should improve within three to five days. In the initial months of the healing period, you might notice a glare or halos around lights.
A follow-up appointment with your eye surgeon should be scheduled for about a week after the eye surgery. To ensure that the vision correction was effective and that the eye is recovering properly, an examination will be performed. If everything seems to be healing routinely, a final one-month appointment will be scheduled to make sure that vision has stabilized and that the prescription eye-drop medication has worn off. If the second eye is being operated on at a different time, this procedure will proceed according to the same timetable.
If you are tired of having to wear glasses or contact lenses to see clearly or have been told you are not a candidate for laser vision correction, call 43Vision now for more information about Custom Lens Replacement and to schedule your consultation. Clear vision is just a phone call away!
More FAQ’s about Custom Lens Replacement Recovery
How long will I experience blurry vision?
Though most people need 24 to 48 hours, some patients notice an improvement in their vision right away. Sometimes, it can take up to two weeks for vision to stabilize while the eye adjusts to the new intraocular lens implant (IOL).
When can I drive after custom lens replacement?
Much like LASIK eye surgery, after a custom lens replacement, many people can drive again within 24 hours. However, it is strongly advised that you wait to drive following your surgery until you have seen your eye doctor for your follow-up appointment. Your eye surgeon could advise you to postpone driving for a few more days if your vision is still improving.
When can I be left alone after RLE?
You will need someone to drive you home on the day of your custom lens replacement, but once you are home, you should be fine to stay alone as long as you feel up for it.
Can I exercise after custom lens replacement?
Most patients resume their normal exercise routine the day after their custom lens replacement treatment. While walking and other non-strenuous exercise are permitted, patients should avoid activities that cause pressure in the eyes or involve objects flying towards the face (basketball, volleyball, martial arts, etc.) Your surgeon will tell you what activities are acceptable and what to avoid.
How can I reduce the risk of complications after a custom lens replacement?
Attending all of your follow-up appointments and paying close attention to your surgeon’s instructions are the best ways to reduce the risks of any type of refractive surgery, including a custom lens replacement. Using the eye drops recommended by your surgeon to prevent dry eye and keep your recovering eyes lubricated will be one of those guidelines. You’ll be shown which eye drops to use by your doctor. Antibiotic eye drops help with healing, prevent infection, and make the recovery process more comfortable for you.
Will I be in pain after a custom lens replacement?
Custom lens replacement surgery is painless and one of the safest medical procedures out there. The patient will be given a local anesthetic before the procedure to ensure that they won’t feel any pain. Patients commonly experience some brief discomfort as the anesthetic wears off.
It is common for patients to experience mild discomfort or itching around the eye in the days after having artificial lenses implanted, but this usually goes away quickly. In most cases, over-the-counter analgesics are more than adequate to treat any discomfort the patient may be feeling.
The 43Vision Difference
The best way to determine if a custom lens replacement or laser eye surgery is right for you is to schedule your free exam at 43Vision and get an official recommendation from our eye doctors. 43Vision is the first vision correction center dedicated to helping people over the age of 43 who want to reduce or eliminate their need for reading glasses or bifocals.
Our state-of-the-art vision correction clinic uses the most cutting-edge technology available to combat presbyopia’s effects and prevent patients from having to deal with cataracts in the future. The most common comment we get from patients is that they wish they had gotten their vision corrected sooner. So what are you waiting for? Call 43Vision today and start your journey to clear vision and eliminate glasses or contacts for good.