A comprehensive, dilated examination is the only way to know which vision-correction procedure is best for you. While your exam involves comprehensive 3D diagnostic testing, it is also our opportunity to learn more about you, your expectations, and your lifestyle. All of these factors play an important role in recommending if RLE is the best procedure for you:

The complete exam can take up to 90 minutes. After all the data is collected, our doctor will examine you, discuss the treatment recommendation, and answer any questions you have. Your visit will include dilation of your pupils, which will affect your eyesight for about 4-6 hours, as you may have experienced with a routine eye exam.

Depending on your pre-operative vision and desired visual result, your doctor will recommend a tailored treatment plan that includes creating ultra-precise laser incisions in the cornea and inserting a specific multi-focal lens. The team will discuss the various lens implant options that may eliminate glasses after RLE surgery.

Your doctor will prescribe anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops that reduce swelling and the risk of infection. We’ll provide specific instructions on how to use them after surgery. Depending on your location, your surgery will be performed in either a hospital, an outpatient surgery center, or our state-of-the-art Surgery Suite. When you arrive, you will be checked in and asked to sign an informed consent document. You will be taken to a room and given drops to prepare your eye for the surgery. Depending on your surgery location, you will be given Valium or an IV for relaxation. Most people feel sleepy during the procedure.

Because every eye varies in size and shape, advanced 3D imaging builds a 3D map of each eye and tailors the treatment to that map. This mapping technology allows your doctor to create a customized treatment plan that matches the uniqueness of each eye.

During the procedure, eye drops are used to completely numb the eye—no needles are used at all. Your surgeon then uses the laser to create a circular opening for accessing and removing the lens. This opening is about 10 times more accurate than what is achieved by hand.

After your surgery, you will spend a short period of time resting in the outpatient recovery area before you are ready to be driven home. You should expect to have blurry vision and mild soreness after the procedure. You will see your doctor the very next day for your post-operative evaluation at your SharpeVision location.