Newmedica Hampshire
St Andrew's House, 4400 Parkway, Solent Business Park, Whiteley, PO15 7FJ
01489 357465 hampshire@newmedica.co.uk
What is refractive lens exchange surgery?
Refractive lens exchange is a well-established vision-correction procedure in which the eye’s natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial one. It’s often recommended for people whose eyesight issues can’t be fully corrected using laser treatments.
This approach may be appropriate for individuals with:
Presbyopia – an age-related condition that reduces the eye’s ability to focus on near objects.
Astigmatism – caused by an irregularly shaped cornea (more oval than round), leading to blurred or distorted vision.
High myopia – pronounced short-sightedness, making distant objects appear unclear.
Marked hyperopia – severe long-sightedness, where near objects are difficult to see clearly.
What to expect from refractive lens exchange surgery in Hampshire?
After surgery, it’s common to experience mild discomfort and some blurred vision during the first few days. Most people can return to their normal activities within about a week. As your eyes heal, your vision should gradually improve. You’ll also have a follow-up appointment to monitor your recovery and ensure everything is healing as expected.
Meet our consultants
We offer patients access to leading consultants who are also partners in the business, meaning they’re directly involved in setting our high standards of care.
How much does refractive lens exchange cost in Hampshire?
From our Hampshire clinic, please get in touch with us today to discuss pricing for private RLE treatments.
Who may need RLE in Hampshire?
Refractive lens exchange is generally recommended for patients who want to correct a refractive error and reduce their reliance on glasses or contact lenses, but who are not suitable candidates for laser vision correction procedures such as LASIK or PRK. These laser treatments reshape the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) to address vision problems like short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism.
It may also be advised for individuals showing early signs of lens dysfunction—such as reduced near vision or decreased contrast sensitivity—who are looking for a long-term vision correction solution.
The procedure is most commonly considered for people over the age of 50, particularly those with presbyopia (the gradual loss of near focusing ability with age) or those who are having difficulty seeing clearly at both near and far distances.
Your refractive lens exchange journey at Newmedica Hampshire
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Referral
Contact us to book a consultation. We’ll be in touch within 24 hours to guide you through the next steps and arrange your consultation – usually within 10 days. The consultation costs £195, non-refundable. If you go ahead with treatment, we’ll credit the full amount towards your final bill.
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Consultation
You’ll be greeted by our patient co-ordinator, who’ll introduce you to your consultant. After eye tests and measurements, we’ll explain your lens options and help you choose a lens that best suits your needs. Surgery is then scheduled – often within a few weeks, or at a time that’s most convenient for you.
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Surgery
Our theatre team will ensure you’re comfortable throughout. We’ll apply drops to dilate and numb your eye, before you meet your consultant to discuss any final questions. The surgery is complete in around 15 minutes. Afterward, you’ll receive eye drops and aftercare advice, then relax until you’re ready to go home.
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Aftercare
We’ll call you the next day to check in. You’ll also have access to an emergency helpline for any urgent concerns. A follow-up will take place a few weeks later, either at our clinic or with your optometrist. We’ll confirm this at your consultation.
