Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a permanent surgical solution for adults who are ready to move beyond glasses, contacts, or reading glasses. By replacing the eye’s aging natural lens with a premium intraocular lens (IOL), RLE addresses the underlying cause of vision decline — not just its symptoms. Dr. Jonathan Solomon specializes in lens surgery and guides each patient through a personalized evaluation to determine whether RLE is the right fit for their vision, lifestyle, and goals.
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE): A Permanent Vision Correction Solution
Dr. Jonathan Solomon on Refractive Lens Exchange
Explore every aspect of Refractive Lens Exchange with Dr. Solomon
Procedure
RLE vs. LASIK
How the two procedures compare — and which is right for your vision and age.
Learn more →Candidacy
Am I a Candidate?
A self-assessment checklist and guide to what determines RLE eligibility.
Learn more →Cost
Cost & Financing
Transparent pricing by lens type, what’s included, and financing options.
Learn more →Lenses
Lens Implant Options
Compare premium IOLs — multifocal, EDOF, trifocal, and the RxSight lens.
Learn more →Presbyopia
RLE for Presbyopia
How RLE permanently addresses reading glass dependence and aging lenses.
Learn more →Recovery
Recovery Timeline
Day-by-day and week-by-week guide to what recovery looks like after RLE.
Learn more →Safety
Risks & Safety
An honest overview of RLE risks, complication rates, and how risk is minimized.
Learn more →Procedure
What to Expect
A full walkthrough of the procedure day, from arrival to post-op visit.
Learn more →The Ideal Candidate for RLE
What to Expect from the RLE Procedure
RLE is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia with light sedation, taking approximately 15–20 minutes per eye. Most patients notice improved vision within the first day or two and return to normal daily activities within a week.
Deep Dive
What to Expect from RLE →
A full walkthrough of the procedure day, recovery timeline, and what patients experience at each stage.
Comparing RLE to Other Vision Correction Procedures
For those contemplating RLE, it is beneficial to contrast it with other vision correction procedures. We will explore how RLE compares with LASIK surgery and the use of contact lenses.
Lens Implant Options for RLE
Choosing the right intraocular lens (IOL) is one of the most important decisions in the RLE process. Dr. Solomon offers the full range of premium lens options — from monofocal and EDOF lenses to trifocal and the RxSight Light Adjustable Lens — and guides each patient toward the best fit for their vision goals and lifestyle.
Deep Dive
Compare Lens Implant Options →
A full comparison of every premium IOL available at Holzman Solomon Vision Partners — including multifocal, EDOF, trifocal, and RxSight.
RLE vs. LASIK Surgery
While both RLE and LASIK aim to improve visual acuity and work towards a glasses-free life, they tackle the vision correction challenge differently. RLE involves removal and replacement of the lens and is especially advantageous for patients over 40 due to age-related deterioration of eyesight. On the other hand, LASIK compensates for refractive errors by reshaping the cornea.
RLE is considered suitable for:
- patients with high refractive errors
- patients with age-related vision changes, i.e. presbyopia, whom do not qualify for cataract surgery.
- individuals who are ineligible for LASIK or PRK surgery due to factors such as thin corneas
With RLE, the cornea remains unaffected, making this procedure a viable alternative for individuals with thin corneas.
RLE and Contact Lenses
Contact lenses provide a temporary solution to vision correction and require regular maintenance and replacement. RLE, on the other hand, offers a permanent solution to vision correction, eliminating the need for ongoing lens maintenance and replacement.
Contact lenses typically offer sharp visual acuity for the majority of patients, sometimes surpassing the clarity provided by glasses. However, when compared to RLE, the consistency of vision quality, particularly in near vision, may be less reliable. In addition, the long-term costs of using contact lenses can vary from $200 to $800 per year, covering expenses for lens replacement, solutions, and cases.
Cost
Financial Considerations
RLE is an investment in permanent vision correction. Costs vary by lens type, with total investment for both eyes typically ranging from $8,000 to $13,000. Financing options including CareCredit and HSA/FSA funds are available.
Understand RLE cost & financing →Safety
Understanding the Risks
RLE is a well-established surgical procedure with a strong safety profile. As with any intraocular surgery, risks exist and every patient deserves a candid, complete picture before making a decision.
Review risks & safety information →Longevity of Results: How Long Does RLE Last?
Refractive Lens Exchange surgery, also known as eye lens replacement surgery, refractive lens exchange procedure, or refractive surgery, is intended to provide a lasting solution for vision correction by replacing the eye’s natural lens with a lens implant. The intraocular lenses utilized in the procedure are designed to have a permanent and lifelong average lifespan.
However, while the majority of RLE patients achieve a high degree of glasses independence, with 80-95% not requiring glasses for most activities several years after the surgery, there are circumstances in which a lens may require replacement. This may arise from challenges in the patient’s adjustment to visual side effects or other factors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is refractive lens exchange worth it?
Yes, refractive lens exchange is worth it as it has a proven rate of predictability in achieving vision correction goals, and 95% of patients report a high level of satisfaction.
What are the disadvantages of refractive lens exchange?
Refractive lens exchange is more invasive than laser refractive surgery and carries potential complications such as retinal detachment and endophthalmitis, which are not as significant risks with PRK and LASIK.
What is the refractive lens exchange?
Refractive lens exchange is an elective outpatient surgery that removes the eye’s natural lens and replaces it with an intraocular lens (IOL). This procedure can help correct vision issues such as nearsightedness and farsightedness.
What is the average cost of refractive lens exchange?
We provide a $11,000 package for both eyes, covering consultation, testing, premium lenses, surgeon and anesthesiologist fees, pre-op clearance, medications, facility usage, and a lifetime guarantee. Our transparent approach ensures upfront cost discussions, surgeries on both eyes in one day, and assistance with insurance paperwork.
What are the benefits of Refractive Lens Exchange?
Refractive Lens Exchange offers benefits such as improved visual acuity, comprehensive treatment for refractive errors, and potential prevention of cataract progression. It can also correct presbyopia and improve vision at various distances.
Ready to Find Out If RLE Is Right for You?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Solomon. One visit. A candid evaluation. The right answer.
Schedule a ConsultationDr. Andrew E. Holzman & Dr. Jonathan Solomon
Andrew E. Holzman, MD, FACS, is one of the most well-respected ophthalmologists in the greater Washington, DC, area. He is regularly sought out by professional athletes, media personalities, and other doctors for laser eye surgery.
Dr. Jonathan Solomon has been acknowledged by GQ Magazine in their “Men of the Year” issue, recognized nationally as one of the “Top Doctors in America” by his peers, and listed as one of Baltimore-Washington’s Super Doctors for 2013.
To schedule a consultation at one of our locations, please fill out our online form or give us a call at (855) 99-LASIK.
