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Clear lens exchange (or clear lens extraction) is an alternative to LASIK eye surgery that can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.

Nevada’s first doctor to offer Laser assisted cataract surgery

Clear lens extraction is a surgical procedure similar to that used for cataract removal. After taking out the eye’s natural lens, the ophthalmologist puts an artificial lens in its place. The new lens, which is tailored to the needs of the individual, can correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and astigmatism and prevent the need for cataract surgery later in life.

The development of clear lens extraction stems from advances in surgical techniques used for cataracts. Because clear lens extraction can eliminate the need for contact lenses or glasses, it is most commonly used for patients over 40 years old, who often suffer vision deterioration. Clear lens extraction is a more invasive surgery for vision correction compared to LASIK, but it may offer more predictable results for many patients. Rather than reshaping the cornea to reduce the need for corrective lenses, which is the goal of LASIK surgery, clear lens extraction involves the replacement of the lens inside the eye.

 Ideal Candidates for Clear Lens Extraction

This procedure is most often used for patients with presbyopia, which involves difficulty with focusing and becomes more common after age 40. However, patients with nearsightedness and farsightedness can also benefit from clear lens extraction. Patients who are interested in this procedure should consult with one of our board-certified ophthalmologists to make sure it is right for them.

Clear lens extraction offers patients a host of benefits, including dependable results, excellent vision improvement and rapid recovery. For patients older than 40, clear lens extraction may be a superior option compared to LASIK. Finally, having natural lenses replaced with artificial ones eliminates future cataract risk.