| The RLE procedure is
used for the correction of severe myopia and severe hyperopia.
Usually, good vision is attained after surgery, however in many cases
a remaining refractive error is present. Astigmatism can only be partially
corrected.
For the procedure, the eye is opened at the periphery of the cornea.
Just as in the case of modern cataract surgery, the eye's own lens is
removed and replaced with a synthetic lens made out of acrylic or a
flexible material. After the IOL has been inserted, the incision closes
upon itself or is closed with a suture.
The RLE procedure always results in a loss of accommodation so that
reading glasses are usually needed. It is therefore a good solution
especially for patients who already have a loss of accommodation and
need reading glasses, especially when an onset of cataract is present.
Quite frequently, a secondary cataract may occur behind the new synthetic
lens within months to years. It can easily be treated with a laser without
the need to open up the eye.
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