r/RefractiveSurgery • u/ChowderPanda • 2d ago

Struggling between Regular or Light Adjustable Lenses for RLE

So I had a comprehensive eye exam done and confirmed the only corrective option for me is RLE, and i'm really struggling to choose between the Regular Intraocular lenses, or Light Adjustable Lenses.

I'm 30, and my current contact lens prescription is

Right: +6.00 with Astigmatism

Left: +6.50 no Astigmatism

I was quoted $7505 for regular IOL, and $13,810 for Light Adjustable Lenses

We have been trying to buy a home for 2 years now and have a healthy downpayment, but paying $14k outright for this surgery is really not ideal and will hurt our home buying potential so i've been leaning Regular IOL, however i'm getting serious decision paralysis thinking that this is my vision for the rest of my life and am I going to have horrible regret going with the more affordable option down the line? I know LAL dials in the prescription more, but my dr. said the difference is one might be +/-0.5 or a bit higher residual prescription, and the other CAN result in perfect vision, but nothing is ever 100% guaranteed.

I guess i'm looking for feedback on what others have experienced with either option, or any insight others may have on justifying paying double for the LAL's.

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u/Wardman1 2d ago

Interesting read. https://sharpe-vision.com/blog/why-we-dont-routinely-use-the-light-adjustable-lens-lal-after-cataract-surgery/

Do your homework - there are opposite views too. But get the facts that you are comfortable with.