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100% vision even with old age - without reading or varifocal glasses.

What is refractive lens exchange?

Refractive lens exchange is a procedure where the natural lens of the eye is replaced with an artificial lens (IOL, intraocular lens). This procedure is an excellent alternative to laser eye surgery to correct presbyopia or severe ametropia. The procedure creates lifelong independence from reading glasses or varifocals and also prevents cataracts common with old age. Various lens types are available for the procedure. Our premium lenses are multifocal lenses which enable clear vision for both near and far - experience a whole new level of freedom and quality of life.

Quite simply

Refractive lens exchange in four simple steps

Lens exchange at betterview occurs in four simple steps:

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1

Preliminary exam

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First, we'll exam your visual acuity and corneas during a free, no obligation, 30 minute prelimary exam. The goal is to determine if a refractive lens exchange is a viable option for you.

2

Primary Exam

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During the 45-minute primary exam, our ophthalmologists will examine your eyes in detail. Your eyes will be measured and a determination will be made regarding lens strength and type. The primary exam is also free with no obligation.

3

Treatment

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The actual procedure starts after your eyes have been treated with numbing drops. It takes about 10 minutes and is completely painless: The natural eye lens is gently removed through a tiny opening in the side of the cornea and the artificial lens is inserted.

4

Follow-up Visits

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The first follow-up visit takes place the next day. During the visit, specialists will examine your vision and make sure everything looks good. Additional follow-up visits take place one week and two months after the procedure.

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What you need

Am I a good candidate for a lens exchange?

Refractive lens exchange might be right for you if you have presbyopia and/or are affected by one ore more instances of ametropia:

The following conditions should apply to you:

  • Far-sightedness up to +15 diopters
  • Near-sightedness up to -15 diopters
  • Higher strengths on request
  • Astigmatism up to 5 diopters
  • Generally healthy eyes other than cloudy vision.
  • You are in good health

Advantages of a lens exchange

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For presbyopia

Refractive lens exchange corrects presbyopia permanently. You would no longer be dependent on reading or varifocal glasses even as you get older.

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Prevent lens clouding

Over 50% of all 75 year-olds suffer from cataracts. The lens exchange removes the existing cloudy lens and prevents any future lens clouding.

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Premium lenses

Our multifocal intraocular lenses help you see clearly at any distance - including close, medium, or long range - eliminating the need for varifocal glasses.

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Clear vision for life

Vision steadily deteriorates with age. After a refractive lens exchange, on the other hand, you'll never be dependent on vision improvement aids again.

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For severe ametropia

Refractive lens exchange is suitable for severe farsightedness, severe shortsightedness or even a combination of severe instances of ametropia.

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Neither visible nor noticeable

The artificial lens can't be seen in the eye, and it can't be felt once the eye has completely healed - experience a whole new level of freedom and quality of life.

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Schedule a free consultation appointment now

During a 30-minute, no-obligation, free initial consultation on site, we'll find out whether you can have your vision corrected with a laser and which treatment option is best for you.

FAQ

Common questions

Here you can find the most important questions and answers about betterview. If your question cannot be answered here, please feel free to contact us.

Laser eye surgery or lens exchange?

Whether laser treatment or refractive lens exchange is best for vision correction depends on a variety of factors. However, if you are over 45 and want to correct presbyopia, refractive lens exchange may be better because it prevents the progression of presbyopia.

What age is suitable for lens exchange?

Refractive lens exchange is used to correct presbyopia in most cases. Starting around age 45. In some cases, however, treatment can also be used to correct severe, non-age-related ametropia which, in principle may be done as soon as you are of legal age.

How long does an artificial eye lens last?

The artificial lens that is placed in the eye during a refractive lens exchange may stay in place for life. Since it replaces the eye's natural lens, it prevents further ametropia and lens clouding (cataracts), thereby enabling clear vision even with old age.

What are the risks associated with a lens exchange?

A refractive lens exchange is a proven and safe method for treating presbyopia. If your vision deviates from the desired result after the procedure, it can be corrected with laser treatment if needed. In rare cases, eye infections may occur after the procedure which can be treated.

What does a refractive lens exchange cost?

At betterview, refractive lens exchange costs CHF 4’980 per eye which can be paid as a lump sum or in convenient installments. The flat rate includes all preliminary and primary exams as well as follow-up visits. Thanks to the betterview guarantee, you'll only be charged if you elect to have us perform the procedure.

What can I expect after treatment?

In the first 24 hours after the procedure, the eye recovers significantly and visual acuity gradually improves. However, it may take several weeks to achieve optimal and stable visual quality. As a rule, you will be able to resume your usual activities the day after the procedure, but you should limit them to a reasonable level. Strenuous activities should be avoided in any case. You should give the eye a rest.

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