Lens Replacement

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) and Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL) for patients with high prescriptions or those not suitable for laser surgery.

20-30 minRecovery: 2-6 weeksLasts: Permanent (RLE) / 20+ years (ICL)

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Quick Overview

Duration

20-30 min

Anesthesia

Topical (eye drops)

Stay in Clinic

Outpatient

Back to Work

2-5 days

Full Recovery

2-6 weeks

Results Visible

1-3 days

Longevity

Permanent (RLE) / 20+ years (ICL)

What is Lens Replacement?

Lens replacement procedures offer vision correction for patients who are not good candidates for laser eye surgery — often due to high prescriptions, thin corneas, or age-related lens changes.

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) works exactly like cataract surgery: the natural lens is removed and replaced with a premium artificial lens, providing clear vision and preventing future cataracts.

Implantable Collamer Lenses (ICL) take a different approach — a thin, biocompatible lens is placed in front of the natural lens, providing excellent vision correction while preserving the natural lens. ICL is reversible and is especially popular with younger patients with very high prescriptions.

Techniques & Approaches

Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)

The natural lens is removed and replaced with a premium IOL, just like cataract surgery. Ideal for patients 45+ and eliminates the possibility of future cataracts.

ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)

A thin, foldable lens is inserted through a tiny incision and positioned between the iris and natural lens. Reversible and preserves the natural lens.

Phakic IOL

Similar to ICL — an additional lens is implanted inside the eye without removing the natural lens. Various models are available for different prescriptions.

Benefits

Corrects very high prescriptions where laser isn't suitable
RLE prevents future cataracts
ICL is reversible — the lens can be removed if needed
No corneal tissue is altered
Excellent visual quality, often better than contact lenses
Wide range of treatable prescriptions

Ideal Candidate

Patients with high myopia (above -8), high hyperopia, or those not suitable for laser surgery due to thin corneas or dry eyes. RLE is ideal for patients 45+ who also want to address presbyopia. ICL is popular with patients 21-45 with high prescriptions.

Before & After Care

Preparation

Comprehensive eye exam including corneal topography and biometry
Stop wearing contact lenses 1-2 weeks prior
Discuss lens type and power with your surgeon
Arrange transportation for surgery day
For ICL: a peripheral iridotomy may be performed beforehand

Aftercare

Use prescribed eye drops (antibiotic + anti-inflammatory)
Wear eye protection while sleeping for the first week
Avoid rubbing your eyes
No swimming or contact sports for 2-4 weeks
Regular follow-up visits as scheduled by your surgeon

Risks & Considerations

All medical procedures carry some degree of risk. Discuss these thoroughly with your surgeon during consultation.

Temporary increased eye pressure (especially ICL)
Inflammation or swelling
Halos or glare at night (especially multifocal RLE)
Retinal detachment (rare, higher risk in very myopic eyes)
Need for additional procedures or adjustments
With ICL: potential cataract formation years later

Recovery Timeline

Vision typically improves significantly within 1-3 days. For RLE, recovery mirrors cataract surgery — use drops for several weeks and avoid heavy lifting. For ICL, recovery is often faster with most patients seeing well within 24-48 hours. Full stabilization takes 2-6 weeks.

Pricing

€1,200 – €3,200 per eye

Prices vary by clinic, technique, and lens type. Contact clinics directly for exact pricing.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between RLE and ICL?

RLE replaces your natural lens with an artificial one (like cataract surgery). ICL adds a lens in front of your natural lens. RLE is typically recommended for patients 45+ while ICL is preferred for younger patients (21-45).

Is ICL reversible?