Refractive Lens Exchange · Los Angeles & Pasadena
See everything. For good.
One procedure. Near, intermediate and distance vision.
Refractive Lens Exchange replaces your aging natural lens with an advanced implant — restoring clear vision at every distance and permanently eliminating the risk of cataracts. A long-term solution that does not age.
Dr. Shamie & Dr. Hura · 4.9★ from 3,620 reviews
What it is
Replacing the natural lens to correct a range of vision.
RLE replaces your eye's natural lens with an artificial one, correcting a full range of vision — nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia. It's a strong option if you're over 40, or if you aren't a candidate for laser vision correction.
As we age, the natural lens loses its ability to focus up close and can become cloudy. RLE addresses both by replacing that lens before your vision worsens — which is why many patients now choose it earlier.
Why patients choose it
One procedure. Four problems solved.
Vision at every distance
Near, intermediate and far — correcting nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia.
Cataracts, prevented
The natural lens is what clouds over. Replace it and you permanently eliminate the risk of cataracts.
It doesn't age
An implanted lens doesn't stiffen or cloud the way a natural lens does. The result is stable long term.
When LASIK isn't an option
A route to independence from glasses for patients who aren't candidates for laser vision correction.
Your lens options
Not every lens does the same thing.
The lens you choose determines how much of your day you spend without glasses. Dr. Shamie and Dr. Hura walk you through every option and match it to how you actually live.
Standard lens implants
A single focal point, optimized for one distance. Excellent vision at that distance, but glasses are usually still needed for driving, computer work and reading. Standard lenses do not correct astigmatism.
Advanced lens implants
A wider range of clear vision without glasses, significantly reducing dependence for most activities — computer work, television, driving. Four types are available, plus the Small Aperture Lens.
Types of advanced lenses
Light Adjustable Lens
The only implant whose power can be adjusted after surgery, using a precise pattern of ultraviolet light — correcting any remaining nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism once you've healed.
Advanced Multifocal Lens
Similar to bifocal or trifocal glasses, providing a wide range of vision at different distances — typically both far away and up close. Some patients notice mild halos or glare, and most adapt over time.
Extended Range Lens
Between a single-focus and a multifocal lens. Crisp distance vision day or night without the halos some notice with multifocals, plus excellent intermediate vision.
Advanced Toric Lens
Designed to correct larger amounts of astigmatism, where other lenses can't deliver good vision. Offers excellent distance or close vision in patients with high astigmatism.
Small Aperture Lens
Eliminates unfocused light so only focused light reaches the retina, giving clear vision from close range to far distance — objects and text appear more defined.
That's what the consultation is for
Your measurements, your daily activities and your priorities decide this — not a brochure. Your surgeon will make a specific recommendation and explain why.
Answers from your surgeons
The questions everyone asks.
What is Refractive Lens Exchange?
How long does RLE last?
What are my lens options?
What are the risks of RLE?
Who is a good candidate for RLE?
What is recovery like for RLE?
Will I be able to feel the implant?
Still have a question?
Book a consultationRefractive Lens Exchange patients
After decades in glasses, they woke up and could see.
“I am 62 years old. About a month ago I received Refractive Lens Exchange surgery from Dr. Shamie. I was not nervous or anxious in the least. After wearing glasses for 56 years, my last prescription was R +6.75 and L +7. I can see clearly at all distances. I am deeply grateful.”
“I can't say enough about how great my experience has been. From beginning to end, everyone involved has been professional and the level of care I have received can only be described as exceptional. Dr. Hura is not only skilled but a really nice guy.”
“Seven years ago I started struggling with reading small type. Over the years it got progressively worse — I had to use readers all of the time. Last month I had the procedure and my short, medium, and long range vision are all back. It is remarkable.”
“During my initial consultations, Dr. Shamie listened to my concerns carefully and was thoughtful and specific in her recommendations. After a thorough review of my situation, she was confident I would be able to get rid of my glasses. The results have been life-changing.”
“Dr. Hura is absolutely the best! I had RLE surgery and now enjoy perfect vision. Dr. Hura and his team were caring, professional, and attentive every step of the way. I couldn't be happier with the results.”
“He genuinely cares about providing the best possible outcome for his patients, and he's reachable at any time during the laser adjustment period. My lens replacement surgery and laser adjustments far exceeded my expectations. I now have perfect vision.”
Candidacy
Is RLE right for you?
RLE tends to suit people whose natural lens is already changing — and people for whom laser vision correction isn't the right tool.
- You're over 40 and increasingly dependent on readers
- You've been told you aren't a LASIK candidate
- You want near, intermediate and distance vision addressed together
- You'd rather prevent cataracts than treat them later
Only an examination can confirm candidacy. If a different procedure suits you better, your surgeon will say so.
Your surgeons
Two specialists, one operating standard.
Neda Shamie, MD
Refractive, Cataract & Cornea Surgeon
Internationally recognized cornea specialist and educator, known for advanced corneal transplantation and complex refractive cases, including lens-based correction.
Arjan Hura, MD
Refractive & Cataract Surgeon
Fellowship-trained in cataract and refractive surgery, focused on precision lens-based vision correction and known for hands-on follow-up with every patient.
Life · Clarity · Focus
Find out if you're a candidate.
You've spent years adapting to changing vision. RLE changes that permanently. Dr. Shamie and Dr. Hura will walk you through every lens option and help you choose the solution that fits your life — not just your prescription.
- A full diagnostic workup and lens recommendation
- Every option explained, including why one fits you best
- A straight answer from your surgeon — even if that answer is no
- Los Angeles and Pasadena consultations available
Schedule your RLE consultation
Takes about 60 seconds.