Dr Cronin offers multiple types of advanced vision correction solutions and is an expert in Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), a cutting-edge alternative to LASIK eye surgery for improved vision quality. Dr Cronin sees sees patients for RLE at his specialised refractive clinic - Focus Vision in Brisbane.
Ideal RLE candidates include:
Individuals over 40 who need reading glasses (presbyopia) or those with significant farsightedness, astigmatism or nearsightedness.
Patients who may not qualify for laser vision correction due to corneal thickness or dry eyes.
Anyone seeking a proactive approach to prevent cataracts.
RLE Surgery is essentially the same as cataract surgery. The procedure is performed with you completely asleep at the South Brisbane Day Hospital. While you are asleep, Dr Cronin will make a small incision in the edge of your eye and remove the natural lens. This is then replaced with an artificial lens to minimise the need for glasses. If you have a referral and clinically significant cataract, then you may be eligible for a medicare rebate or be able to use your health fund.
A Detailed Eye Evaluation: Tailored and thorough assessments using the latest diagnostic technology.
Advanced Lens Replacement: Minimally invasive techniques to replace your natural lens with a premium intraocular lens (IOL).
Comprehensive Aftercare: Personalized follow-up to ensure optimal recovery and vision enhancement.
Dr Cronin offers premium IOL choices including:
Multifocal IOLs: A solution for seamless vision at all distances, aiming to reduce reliance on reading glasses.
Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs: These lenses provide an extensive range of clear vision, enhancing everyday visual tasks.
During your visit, Dr Cronin will guide you through selecting the IOL that aligns with your vision goals.
Post-RLE, patients enjoy a lifetime free from cataracts. This benefit, alongside the prospect of enhanced vision, makes RLE a compelling choice for eligible patients.
Learn more about RLE and how it can be your pathway to enduring clear vision.
Schedule your consultation AT FOCUS VISION todayRefractive Lens Exchange (RLE) is a vision correction surgery where the eye's natural lens is replaced with an advanced artificial intraocular lens (IOL). It is nearly identical to cataract surgery but is performed electively to correct presbyopia, farsightedness, or nearsightedness before a cataract develops.
There is no difference between these procedures, they are all different names for the same procedure to remove your need for glasses, reading glasses or contact lenses.
Technically, yes—the surgical process is the same. However, the clinical goal differs. Cataract surgery is medically necessary to remove a cloudy lens, whereas RLE is a refractive procedure performed on a clear lens to eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses, typically in patients over 40.
RLE is often the ideal choice for patients over age 45 who are experiencing presbyopia (age-related reading vision loss) or extreme farsightedness. It is also an excellent alternative for those whose corneas are too thin for LASIK or who wish to permanently prevent future cataract formation.
The choice depends on your age and eye health. LASIK reshapes the cornea and is generally preferred for younger patients. RLE replaces the internal lens and is superior for patients over 50 because it treats presbyopia and ensures you will never need cataract surgery in the future.
Most patients achieve "spectacle independence" with modern multifocal or Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) lenses. These lenses allow the eye to focus at distance, intermediate (computer), and near (reading) ranges. While no surgery can guaranteed 100% perfect vision in every light condition, 90–95% of RLE patients rarely require glasses.
Yes. Unlike LASIK, which can sometimes "regress" over decades as the natural lens continues to age, RLE is a permanent solution. The artificial IOL does not change shape or age, and because the natural lens is gone, you cannot develop cataracts later in life.
Most patients notice a significant improvement in vision within 24 to 48 hours. While you can usually return to work and light activities within a few days, full "neuroadaptation" (your brain adjusting to the new lenses) can take several weeks to a few months.
RLE is considered a very safe, routine procedure. Potential risks—similar to cataract surgery—include endophthalmitis (infection), retinal detachment, or temporary "halos" around lights at night. As a refractive specialist, I conduct a rigorous preoperative screening to minimize these risks for every patient.
