Clear Lens Extraction (CLE)

Vision Correction That Eliminates the Need for Cataract Surgery

If you wish to reduce or eliminate your need of glasses or contact lens, but have been told that you are not a candidate for LASIK, PRK or cataract surgery; clear lens extraction (CLE) may be an option for you. This procedure, also called refractive lens exchange, is quite similar to cataract surgery. However the lens is clear: there is no cataract. The goal of CLE is to reduce or eliminate your need for glasses. It can correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), astigmatism, and loss of near vision (presbyopia). People with a strong distance correction and the need for reading correction as well are the best candidates for this surgery. People with good eye health in their 40s to 60s and need reading glasses may consider this surgery.

The Process

We perform in-depth, personalized assessments to determine if CLE is the best choice for you.

A Complete Eye Evaluation

You will undergo a complete evaluation of your eyes. A technician will perform a basic eye exam, imaging, and diagnostic testing and will take measurements of your eyes. Then your eyes will be dilated, and the doctor will examine them to determine whether CLE surgery is an option for you.

CLE and Insurance

Because CLE surgery is an elective procedure; it is not covered by most insurance plans. The cost covers the surgery and one year’s follow up. . We follow you closely, especially the year after surgery, to ensure the results meet your expectations.

The procedure

CLE is basically identical to cataract surgery. It is an outpatient surgery performed with a combination of sedation and numbing drops to insure your comfort. To “recalibrate” your eye the clear lens is removed. Then one of several possible lens implants are placed in the eye, replacing the human lens and re-calibrating the eye at the same time.

Replacement Lens Options

Recent advances in lens technology and design allow us to offer several choices to improve your vision with CLE. We will discuss the results of your eye exam, what you hope to achieve, and the options for the surgery. This will help determine which replacement lens is right for you. Depending on the lenses you and your doctor select, CLE can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia...

Monofocal Lenses
These lenses correct distance vision, but you will need glasses for near-work activities like reading.

Monofocal and Astigmatism-Correcting Lenses
Toric lenses correct astigmatism and distance vision. Glasses will still be required for near work.

Presbyopia-Correcting or “Lifestyle” Lenses
These lenses are designed to correct whatever distance correction you have and due to their special design, the lenses can correct reading and computer needs as well. The goal is elimination of all glasses. It may still be necessary to wear reading glasses for very small print or in low-light and sometimes for night driving.

What to Expect with CLE

Long-Term Results
The replacement lenses are intended to remain in place permanently. The results of CLE should last a lifetime unless there is a medical change in your eyes. Because your natural lenses are removed during the procedure, you will not need cataract surgery.

Consultation
If Clear Lens Extraction sounds interesting to you, please call for an appointment.