---
title: What is lens replacement surgery?
description: Lens replacement surgery, also called refractive lens exchange, replaces the clear natural lens with a premium intraocular lens to correct vision. It is often considered for people over 45 who want to reduce or remove their need for glasses or…
url: "https://bluefinvision.com/knowledge-base/topics/treatments-procedures/what-is-lens-replacement-surgery/"
updated: "2025-12-11"
category: "Treatments & Procedures"
---

# What is lens replacement surgery?

Lens replacement surgery, also called refractive lens exchange, replaces the clear natural lens with a premium intraocular lens to correct vision. It is often considered for people over 45 who want to reduce or remove their need for glasses or contact lenses.

## How lens replacement works

The procedure is similar to cataract surgery but performed electively before a cataract becomes visually significant. A chosen lens implant is inserted to correct distance, intermediate, and sometimes near vision, depending on the design.

- Can address long-sightedness, short-sightedness, and presbyopia
- Usually performed as a day-case with local anaesthetic
- Long-term results are generally stable because the implant does not age

## Further information

See the main [lens replacement surgery](https://bluefinvision.com/lens-replacement-surgery/) page for detailed information on lens types and suitability. A neutral explainer on choosing providers is available in [the best place to get lens replacement surgery in London](https://bluefinvision.com/blog/best-place-to-get-lens-replacement-surgery-in-london/).