If you’ve been thinking about long-term vision correction, you’ve likely heard about LASIK and Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)/Custom Lens Replacement (CLR). Both procedures can dramatically reduce your dependence on glasses or contacts—but they correct vision in very different ways.
At Brooks Eye Associates, we regularly help patients across Plano, Las Colinas, and nearby DFW communities compare their options. To help you make a confident, informed decision, this guide breaks down everything you need to know—using insights directly from our surgeons.
What’s the Difference Between RLE and LASIK?
What Is LASIK?
LASIK reshapes the cornea (the front surface of the eye) with a precise laser. It’s most commonly used for:
- Nearsightedness
- Farsightedness
- Astigmatism
Patients typically love LASIK because:
- Recovery is fast
- Vision improves quickly
- It’s an excellent long-term solution for younger adults
Most LASIK patients are between 18 and 45, especially those with healthy corneas and stable prescriptions.
What Is CLR (Custom Lens Replacement)/RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange)?
RLE replaces your natural lens with a clear, permanent artificial lens—similar to the technology used in cataract surgery. Unlike LASIK, it works inside the eye instead of reshaping the surface.
RLE is ideal for:
- Adults 45+ experiencing presbyopia (age-related near-vision loss)
- People wanting to avoid future cataract surgery
- Patients who aren’t good candidates for LASIK due to thin corneas or severe refractive error
CLR/RLE vs. LASIK: Which Is Right for You?
Choosing between these procedures often comes down to age, lifestyle, and your long-term vision goals. Below is a simple comparison.
Age & Lens Health
- LASIK → Best for 18–45 years old
- CLR/RLE → Best for 45+ and patients with early lens changes
Goals for Reading Vision
- LASIK helps distance and sometimes near vision, but presbyopia may still develop later.
- CLR/RLE replaces the lens entirely and can correct near, far, and intermediate vision in one procedure.
Preventing Cataracts
- LASIK doesn’t prevent cataracts because it doesn’t affect the eye’s natural lens.
- CLR/RLE eliminates cataracts for life because the natural lens is replaced.
Prescription Severity
- LASIK works best for mild-to-moderate prescriptions.
- CLR/RLE works for high refractive errors that LASIK cannot fully correct.
Corneal Thickness
- Thin corneas may disqualify a patient from LASIK.
- CLR/RLE does not rely on the cornea at all.
Common Questions Patients Ask (and Expert Answers)
- Is CLR/RLE safer than LASIK? Both procedures are extremely safe. The right choice depends on age, corneal health, and your visual goals, not which procedure is “better.”
- If I get LASIK, will I need reading glasses later? Most likely yes, especially after age 45. LASIK does not stop presbyopia.
- Does CLR/RLE hurt? Patients report that RLE is quick and comfortable. Numbing drops are used, and recovery is relatively smooth.
- How long do the results last?
- LASIK results are long-lasting but presbyopia still occurs with age.
- CLR/RLE results are permanent and the implanted lens does not degrade.
- Who should NOT get LASIK? Patients with thin corneas, unstable prescriptions, or early lens changes are often better candidates for RLE.
Why Patients in Plano and Las Colinas Choose Brooks Eye Associates
Brooks Eye Associates is known across DFW community, and surrounding areas for:
- Advanced technology for both LASIK and CLR/RLE
- Experienced surgeons who perform thousands of procedures
- Personalized vision correction plans
- Transparent education and patient-first care
