What are the Potential Risks and Complications of RLE?

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a popular vision correction surgery that involves replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to improve vision and reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses. While RLE is considered safe and effective for many people, like any surgical procedure, it carries potential risks and complications. In this post, we’ll explore these risks, the side effects from the lenses, and the possibility of the body rejecting the lens.

What Are the Possible Risks or Complications of RLE?

1. Infection and Inflammation

Although rare, there is a risk of infection (endophthalmitis) and inflammation inside the eye following RLE. surgery.

2. Retinal Detachment

Patients undergoing RLE may have an increased risk of retinal detachment, a condition where the retina peels away from its underlying layer of support tissue. Immediate treatment is crucial to prevent permanent vision loss.

3. Lens Dislocation

In some cases, the implanted IOL can shift from its original position, a complication known as lens dislocation. This may require additional surgery to reposition or replace the lens.

4. Residual Refractive Errors

Some patients may still experience refractive errors after surgery, necessitating the use of glasses or contact lenses for certain activities or possibly undergoing an additional surgical procedure for enhancement.

5. Glare and Halos

Especially common with multifocal and accommodative IOLs, some patients report experiencing glare and halos around lights, which can be particularly noticeable at night.

6. Side Effects from the Lenses

The type of IOL implanted can influence the side effects experienced by patients. While monofocal IOLs are less likely to cause visual disturbances like glare and halos, multifocal and accommodative lenses, which provide the convenience of reduced dependency on glasses, may have a higher incidence of these side effects. Most patients find that these effects diminish over time as they adapt to their new lenses.

7. Risk of the Body Rejecting the Lens

Unlike organ transplants, the risk of the body “rejecting” an artificial intraocular lens is virtually nonexistent. IOLs are made from biocompatible materials that do not trigger an immune response. Consequently, once the lens is implanted, it can remain in the eye indefinitely without the risk of rejection. However, complications can arise from improper positioning or other surgical complications rather than an immune system rejection.

These complications are reasons that selecting the best possible surgeon is so important. The best part of working with RLE Vision, we have already taken care of the selection and screening process for a surgeon. To learn more about this, click here.