## Risks of Clear Lens Exchange Procedure with a Multifocal Lens
Clear Lens Exchange (CLE), also known as Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), involves replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). While this procedure can correct various vision issues, it carries several risks and potential complications:
– **Loss of Vision**: There is a rare risk of severe vision loss due to complications such as retinal detachment or infection[1][2][3].
– **Retinal Detachment**: This is a significant risk, particularly in patients with high myopia (not you). The incidence varies but can be as high as 8% in certain high-risk groups[2][4]. I don’t recall ever having one with this procedure.
– **Visual Disturbances**: Patients may experience blurred or double vision, glare, halos, and shadows in peripheral vision. These symptoms are often temporary but can be bothersome[3][5]. Halos are very common but are more of an observation than a significant issue. With time, virtually everyone adjusts.
– **Intraocular Lens (IOL) Dislocation**: The implanted lens may move from its intended position, requiring further surgical intervention[1][2]. Remote but distinct possibility.
– **Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO)**: This condition, also known as secondary cataract, involves clouding of the lens capsule and may require laser treatment to correct[1][2]. Very common and will require a Yag Capsulotomy (generally covered by insurance).
– **Infection and Bleeding**: As with any surgery, there is a risk of infection and bleeding. Infection rates are low, around 1 in 3,000 cases[5]. This seems high, and can generally be effectively be treated if discovered early. With cataract surgery the rates of infection following cataract surgery is very low, typically ranging from 0.02% to 0.08%. This type of infection, known as endophthalmitis, is a rare but serious complication of cataract surgery.
– **Increased Eye Pressure**: Some patients may experience a temporary increase in intraocular pressure following surgery[1]. Readily treated
– **Droopy Eyelid (Ptosis)**: This is a possible side effect that may resolve over time or require additional treatment[1][3]. Very uncommon.
– **Over-correction or Under-correction**: The surgery might not achieve the desired refractive outcome, leading to residual refractive errors that may need correction with glasses or additional surgery[2]. Can be touched up with laser surgery or in extreme cases a lens exchange. This is more common in patients that have had previous LASIK or PRK but can be up to 5%.
– **Glaucoma**: There is a potential risk for developing glaucoma post-surgery due to changes in eye pressure or other factors[2]. The pressure generally goes down after this surgery.
Let us know if you have other questions to make an informed decision about undergoing the procedure.
Citations:
[1] https://oculase.com/blog/refractive-lens-exchange-surgery-what-is-the-process/
[2] https://www.bettervisionguide.com/refractive-iols-rle/
[3] https://grandjunctioneyecare.com/eye-care-blog/the-pros-and-cons-of-clear-lens-exchange/
[4] https://www.aao.org/eyenet/article/refractive-lens-exchange-debate
[5] https://www.focusclinics.com/lens-replacement-surgery/refractive-lens-exchange/safety-and-risks/
[6] https://anaheimeyemd.com/the-pros-and-cons-of-refractive-lens-exchange/
[7] https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/24840-refractive-lens-exchange
[8] https://keeyecenters.com/eye-care-blog/9-common-questions-about-clear-lens-exchange/