What’s the Difference Between Laser Eye Surgery and Lens Replacement?

If you want to reduce your reliance on glasses or contact lenses, there are two main surgical options: laser eye surgery and lens replacement surgery (also known as refractive lens exchange, or RLE).

Both treatments can improve vision, but they work in different ways and are suitable for different patients.

Laser Eye Surgery - Fast and Effective

Laser eye surgery reshapes the cornea using a highly controlled laser to correct short-sightedness, long-sightedness, and astigmatism. It is one of the most common elective procedures in the UK, with over 100,000 people choosing laser eye surgery each year. Most patients notice improved vision within 24–48 hours, and many achieve 20/20 vision or better.

Lens Replacement – A Long-Term Solution

Lens replacement surgery, or refractive lens exchange (RLE), works differently. Instead of reshaping the cornea, the natural lens is replaced with a high-performance intraocular lens (IOL), similar to those used in cataract surgery.

This treatment is particularly suitable for people who already rely on reading glasses or have early signs of cataracts. A key advantage is that future cataracts are prevented, as the natural lens is replaced. More than 500,000 lens replacement surgeries are performed annually in the UK.

Which Treatment Is Right for You?

Laser eye surgery is ideal for those looking for quick vision correction, while lens replacement offers a more permanent solution, especially if you wish to address age-related changes in vision.

At Freedom Vision, we help you choose the most effective treatment for your eyes.