How does refractive lens exchange differ from cataract surgery?

People often ask what is the difference between refractive lens surgery and cataract surgery. And what I say is that refractive lens surgery is really very sophisticated and detailed cataract surgery. Because they both require removing the lens of the eye.

The main difference is that in refractive lens surgery we are using advanced technology lenses. And these lenses have high-quality optical surfaces – often called aspheric. They may correct astigmatism. They may also be used to correct near and distance and intermediate vision.

So it’s really the quality of the lenses that is the main difference.

More about Robert Morris

Rob Morris is a Consultant Ophthalmic Surgeon at The Grange Eye Consultants. His special expertise is in cataract and refractive surgery, including Refractive Lens Exchange, and adult squint. He has over 30 years experience in treating people with eye problems. Rob Morris founded Grange Eye Consultants to manage the increasing demand for more complex refractive surgery. He leads clinical trials investigating novel eye treatments. He is currently Medical Director at Optegra Eye Hospitals.