See if you can wave goodbye to reading glasses with lens replacement surgery in Canberra

Discover how this procedure uses advanced intraocular lenses to help improve near and distance vision and reduce reliance on glasses

See if you can wave goodbye to reading glasses with lens replacement surgery in Canberra

Discover how this procedure uses advanced intraocular lenses to help improve near and distance vision and reduce reliance on glasses

With lens replacement surgery, you could experience clearer vision at multiple distances

Learn how this treatment works, who it may be suitable for, and what to expect from recovery and outcomes

Lens replacement surgery suitability criteria

Lens replacement surgery may be considered for adults over 45 who experience age-related changes in near vision, also known as presbyopia.

It may be suitable for individuals who have difficulty reading without glasses or experience a gradual decline in visual clarity.

A comprehensive eye examination is essential to determine whether this treatment is appropriate based on your prescription, eye health, and personal goals.

People with cataracts or high refractive errors may also be eligible. Your ophthalmologist will assess factors like lens clarity, corneal health, and overall ocular condition to offer personalised guidance about suitability.

Lens replacement surgery, also known as refractive lens exchange, involves replacing the eye’s natural lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

The procedure is similar to cataract surgery and is performed using a small incision under local anaesthetic.

The artificial lens is selected based on your vision needs, with options available to support distance, intermediate, or near focus.

The treatment aims to reduce dependence on reading glasses or bifocals.

The procedure typically takes about 20 minutes per eye and is performed one eye at a time. Recovery is usually straightforward, with vision gradually improving over days to weeks.

Lens replacement surgery may reduce the need for reading glasses and address refractive errors such as presbyopia, myopia, and hyperopia.

Unlike laser procedures, it also addresses age-related changes in the lens. However, as with all surgery, it involves risks and a recovery period. Some people may still need glasses for certain tasks.

Visual outcomes vary depending on eye health, lens type, and individual factors.

A detailed assessment is required to determine whether this option aligns with your visual needs and expectations.

Lens replacement surgery carries risks, as with any surgical procedure.

Common short-term side effects may include blurry vision, glare, or discomfort during healing.

In rare cases, complications such as infection, lens movement, or retinal issues may occur.

There is also a chance that additional treatment or glasses may still be needed.

A full eye health assessment is necessary before treatment to identify potential risks based on your individual circumstances.

Your ophthalmologist will explain these risks in detail, and post-operative care is important to support healing.

Lens replacement surgery, also known as refractive lens exchange, involves removing the eye’s natural lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

This procedure is commonly used to address age-related changes in vision.

Several types of IOLs are available, including monofocal lenses (focused at one distance), multifocal lenses (designed for both near and distance vision), and extended depth of focus lenses (providing a continuous range of vision)1https://www.allaboutvision.com/treatments-and-surgery/vision-surgery/lasik/refractive-lens-exchange/.

The choice of lens depends on your lifestyle, visual goals, and eye health. Your ophthalmologist will guide you through the options and recommend the most suitable lens for your needs.

The journey begins with a full eye health assessment to determine your suitability.

On the day of surgery, a local anaesthetic is applied, and a small incision is made to gently remove your natural lens.

An artificial intraocular lens is then inserted to replace it.

The procedure typically takes about 20 minutes per eye.

Recovery is generally quick, though follow-up appointments will monitor your progress2 https://www.allaboutvision.com/visionsurgery/refractive-lens-exchange.htm.

Your ophthalmologist will provide clear aftercare instructions to support safe healing and stable outcomes.

Many people experience an improvement in visual clarity after lens replacement surgery, especially for near and intermediate vision3https://link.springer.com/article/10.1186/1471-2415-10-15.

Results vary depending on the lens type, eye health, and individual healing response. Some patients still require glasses for certain tasks.

The procedure is designed to address age-related vision changes and may also help correct refractive errors such as myopia or hyperopia.

Full visual stabilisation can take several weeks. Your ophthalmologist will guide you on what to expect and whether this treatment aligns with your visual goals.

Take our 2-minute quiz

Take our 2-minute quiz to see if you could reduce dependence on your reading glasses

Find out if lens replacement surgery could help you see up close again without relying on glasses.

See if you can reclaim clear near vision in these simple steps

If you’re tired of relying on reading glasses, we’ve made the path to treatment simple and stress-free

Step 1: Get in touch

Not sure if you’re suitable? Start with a self test to get a clear answer on whether lens replacement surgery could help.

Step 2: We’ll meet

We’ll examine your eyes and have a detailed chat about your lifestyle and vision goals. You’ll leave with an honest recommendation and a clear understanding of your options.

Step 3: See life close up again

After treatment, many people tell us they’re able to read menus, phones, and dashboards again—without reaching for glasses. Enjoy daily life with less frustration and limitations.

Take our 2-minute quiz

Take our 2-minute quiz to see if you could reduce dependence on your reading glasses

Find out if lens replacement surgery could help you see up close again without relying on glasses.

Hi, I’m Dr. Richard Barry

I am an ophthalmologist and the principal surgeon at Blink Vision Clinic in Canberra. As a Fellow of the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Ophthalmologists, I have advanced training in vision correction.

I trained at Sydney Eye Hospital and completed international fellowship training in macula and retina disease. My focus is on providing evidence-based treatments using the latest technology to achieve the best possible outcomes for my patients.

I believe in clear communication and patient education, ensuring you fully understand your options and treatment plan. At Blink Vision Clinic, my goal is to provide a thorough and professional approach to eye care, so you feel confident in your vision correction journey.

Dr. Richard Barry