When it comes to long-term vision correction, many people immediately think of LASIK. But for patients over 40—or those with certain eye conditions—there may be a better fit. Custom Lens Replacement (CLR), also known as clear lens exchange, is a safe and effective alternative designed to address age-related vision changes and provide lasting visual clarity. At Brooks Eye Associates, we offer advanced CLR procedures to help our patients reduce or eliminate their need for glasses.
What Is Custom Lens Replacement?
Custom Lens Replacement involves removing your eye’s natural lens and replacing it with a premium artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This procedure is nearly identical to cataract surgery, but it is performed before cataracts develop—making it a proactive solution for patients struggling with presbyopia, nearsightedness, or farsightedness. CLR is often referred to as presbyopia surgery because it specifically targets the age-related loss of near vision that affects most people in their 40s and beyond.
Patients who choose CLR benefit from long-term vision improvement and freedom from bifocals or reading glasses. Many of the advanced lenses used in CLR offer multifocal or extended-depth-of-focus capabilities, which means clearer vision at multiple distances.
CLR vs LASIK: What’s the Difference?
The CLR vs LASIK conversation often comes down to patient age and vision goals. LASIK is a corneal procedure that uses a laser to reshape the front surface of the eye. It’s ideal for younger adults with stable prescriptions and healthy corneas, particularly those with myopia, hyperopia, or astigmatism.
CLR, on the other hand, corrects vision by replacing the lens inside the eye—offering a permanent solution that also eliminates the future risk of developing cataracts. Unlike LASIK, CLR can effectively treat presbyopia, making it especially beneficial for patients who are already experiencing the need for reading glasses or progressive lenses.
Who should consider Custom Lens Replacement?
If you are over 40 and noticing signs of presbyopia—or if you have been told you’re not a candidate for LASIK—clear lens exchange may be the ideal solution. CLR is often recommended for individuals with dry eyes, thin corneas, or early signs of lens dysfunction. It’s also a smart option for anyone who wants to enjoy long-term clarity without facing cataract surgery later in life.
While the recovery time for CLR is slightly longer than LASIK, the benefits can be greater for the right candidate—especially those seeking lasting relief from age-related vision decline.
Your Vision, Your Choice
Whether you are comparing CLR vs LASIK, exploring options for presbyopia surgery, or simply ready to reduce your dependence on glasses, the team at Brooks Eye Associates is here to help. Our comprehensive evaluations ensure that you receive a personalized recommendation based on your lifestyle, ocular health, and long-term vision needs.
We’re committed to helping you see clearly—now and into the future—with solutions that are clinically advanced and carefully tailored to you.
Book your consultation at Brooks Eye Associates and take the first step toward lasting clarity.
