RLE: What to Expect Before, During and After Surgery

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Posted by: Missouri Eye Institute in Blog on July 31, 2025

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is changing the landscape of vision correction, especially for adults experiencing presbyopia (over-40 vision) or who may not be candidates for LASIK. At Missouri Eye Institute, we specialize in helping you understand the process from consultation through recovery, so you feel confident and well-prepared at every step.

Not sure how RLE treatment compares to LASIK? This short primer will walk you through pre- and post-surgical steps, so you’ll feel more at ease with the process.

Before Surgery: Preparation and Pre-Op Evaluation

As with LASIK, your RLE journey begins with a comprehensive consultation and a one-on-one discussion with an MEI doctor. We will review your health history, perform diagnostics and assess your lifestyle needs to determine the best procedure for you. This is also your chance to get all your questions answered so you’re comfortable and confident in your decision.

Before surgery, you’ll receive specific instructions, such as when to stop contact lens use and using antibiotic eye drops. We’ll also guide you on arranging transportation for surgery day and what to bring with you. We’ll be with you every step of the way.

Surgery Day: What You Can Expect

Most RLE procedures take under 20 minutes per eye and are performed in our outpatient facility. Your surgeon will replace the dysfunctional natural lens of your eye with a high-performance “intraocular” lens designed to help you see clearly at multiple distances. We also make sure you’re comfortable, and we gently numb the eye to reduce discomfort. 

Commonly patients describe the procedure as quick and painless, with many remarking how they appreciate the surgeon talking them through each step.

Right after the procedure, you’ll rest briefly before heading home (with the help of your driver, of course). Vision may seem hazy at first but usually begins improving within a day.

Post-Op Recovery and Healing

Recovery from both RLE and LASIK is quick and generally pain-free. You’ll return for a follow-up visit with your surgeon within 24 hours, and your care team will monitor healing in subsequent visits. Avoid rubbing your eyes, heavy lifting and swimming for the first week, and follow your drop schedule precisely.

Expect gradual improvement in vision over the next several days. Most patients resume normal activities within 48 hours and enjoy sharper focus for reading, driving and daily tasks.

RLE vs. LASIK: Who Should Consider Lens Replacement?

While LASIK reshapes the cornea to correct vision, RLE targets the root of age-related blurry vision by replacing the eye’s natural lens. This makes RLE an excellent option for individuals over 40 experiencing presbyopia, especially if they aren’t LASIK candidates due to thin corneas or high prescriptions.

Life After RLE: Long-Term Benefits

RLE provides another powerful benefit: It prevents cataract development later on. By removing (and replacing) the dysfunctional natural lens in the eye, patients skip the need for future cataract surgery – a long-term advantage you definitely can’t get from prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses!

RLE isn’t just about convenience 0- it’s about clarity and independence. Many patients find they no longer need reading glasses, bifocals or contact lenses. Whether you’re considering Missouri LASIK or are leaning toward lens replacement, vision correction can be a forward-looking investment in your long-term quality of life.

Not sure if RLE or LASIK are right for you? Take the Self-Test to find out if you’re a candidate.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I get both eyes done at once with RLE?

It is generally recommended to schedule one eye at a time, but your surgeon may allow same-day procedures depending on health and vision needs. Your Missouri Eye Institute team will always recommend what is in the best interest of your visual outcome and healing.

Is RLE painful?

Most patients report little to no pain during or after surgery, thanks to numbing drops. Some patients have minor discomfort and irritation afterward. Over-the-counter pain medications can ease the discomfort.

Will insurance cover RLE?

RLE is considered elective and is often not covered by insurance. However, many patients use their employer’s FSA or HSA funds, tax refunds or savings to pay for vision correction. Missouri Eye also has flexible payment plans for those who would like to have surgery now and pay later.

How soon can I go back to work? 

Most people return to work within 1–3 days, depending on the type of work they do and how their vision stabilizes. At Missouri Eye, we’ll work with you on scheduling your procedure for a time that allows you to recover comfortably.

Is RLE permanent? 

Yes. Once your natural lens is replaced, the IOL remains in place for life and doesn’t require future replacement.

Is RLE considered safe?

As with any surgery, RLE carries small risks; however, it is one of the safest elective surgeries available, with one of the highest patient satisfaction rates. Your doctor will review your personal risk factors and give you advice on what to do to heal safely and achieve optimal visual outcomes.

Can I still get LASIK later?

RLE and LASIK are separate procedures. After RLE, LASIK is usually not needed since vision correction is already achieved.

Missouri Eye Institute has helped thousands of patients attain freedom from glasses and contact lenses, with convenient locations in Springfield, Joplin and Branson. Contact us at (800) 383-3831 to schedule a thorough consultation or visit MissouriEye.com to learn more about our services.