REFRACTIVE LENS EXCHANGE & CATARACT SURGERY

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Lens replacement surgery can be performed both with or without a cataract present. If you’ve made an appointment with Dr Rylan Hayes for cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange (RLE) — or are considering doing so — congratulations. This life-changing procedure is one of the most effective and rewarding forms of vision correction surgery available today.

Using complex, high-resolution diagnostic equipment, Dr Rylan Hayes is able to precisely measure your eyes and plan your surgery down to the micron. With his advanced training and experience, most cataract and lens replacement procedures are performed in under 10 minutes.

Where appropriate, surgery may be completed using a single microscopic incision, minimising trauma and promoting a faster recovery. You'll typically receive twilight sedation and local anaesthesia (via eye drops or a small injection next to your eye), making the procedure safe and comfortable.

After your natural lens (or cataract) is removed, a premium artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted — tailored to correct your vision and reduce, or even eliminate, your dependence on glasses.

Your new lens is carefully selected based on your prescription, astigmatism, and visual needs. While these lenses can correct your vision across multiple distances, it’s important to understand that no artificial lens currently provides perfect clarity at all distances.

Lens options aim to optimise across three main vision zones:

• Near vision – reading and phone use
• Intermediate vision – computer work
• Distance vision – driving and outdoor activities

Every lens involves a balance between precision and range. Some options maximise sharpness at one distance, while others offer a broader range with small trade-offs in clarity and contrast. During your consultation, Dr Hayes and the team will guide you through the lens options to help select the one best suited to your eyes and lifestyle goals. There is no 'best lens', some people value spectacle independence more, while other people value precision vision greater.

• Procedure time: usually under 10 minutes per eye
• Anaesthesia: sedation + local numbing
• Recovery: you can go home the same day, typically after a light snack and short rest
• Post-op: most patients notice improved vision within 24–48 hours