Custom Lens Replacement is a cutting-edge vision correction procedure designed for patients aged 40+. This procedure is also referred to as CLR, Clear Lens Replacement, Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE), or Presbyopia Lens Exchange (PRELEX).
See Near and Far
After we turn 40, most of us experience changes in our vision. For you it might have felt gradual, or like it hit all at once! It’s not ‘getting old,’ it’s actually presbyopia. This is when the muscles in our eyes begin to lose elasticity and make it harder to ‘zoom’ in and out when we focus at various distances.
CLR is a quick, simple, and comfortable lens-based procedure that can correct both nearsightedness and farsightedness for patients in Minneapolis, St. Paul, or anywhere in the surrounding Twin Cities area. Join the thousands of patients who have experienced visual freedom with a CLR vision correction procedure from refractive surgeon Dr. Ralph Chu.
"I was legally blind and had to wear special-order contacts.
I have bad eye allergies and was miserable. I researched three practices, and Dr. Chu had the best reviews and experience by far. I went from legally blind to seeing 20/20. It was literally a miracle."
Amy Jo • CLR Patient & Previously Legally Blind
Benefits of CLR Vision Correction With Chu Vision
Corrects both nearsightedness and farsightedness
Can allow an adjustable focus, both near and far, for a customizable treatment option
Prevents the development of cataracts
Improved nighttime vision
Improves vision without constant reliance on glasses and readers
Proven safety and results
Take the next step to clear vision. It's easy:
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The FDA has selected Chu Vision to participate in over 100 clinical trials.
You’ll get unrushed time with Dr. Chu before, during, and at your follow-up.
Dr. Chu is the go-to expert for local and national TV interviews.
We genuinely love what we do—and it shows in the approachable, upbeat energy that makes working with us feel like home.
About Custom Lens Replacement (CLR/RLE)
CLR surgery is highly similar to cataract surgery in that the natural lens of the eye is removed and replaced with a medical-grade artificial intraocular lens, or IOL, to correct or dramatically reduce a certain type of refractive error and allow for sharp vision at varying ranges. A multifocal IOL can improve near, intermediate, and far-distance vision. World-renowned ophthalmologist and eye surgeon Dr. Ralph Chu and his remarkable team of eye doctors are delighted to provide Custom Lens Replacement (CLR/RLE) for patients in the Minneapolis, Bloomington, & Twin Cities area.
CLR can be an excellent treatment option for most patients who live with extremely high degrees of myopia (nearsightedness) or hyperopia (farsightedness) and who might not be ideal candidates for laser vision correction or other surgical procedures. Another exciting bonus to this refractive surgery is that your new lens will never develop a cataract like your natural lens can, eliminating the need for future cataract surgery. If you are tired of wearing contact lenses or glasses and want to see clearly without them, a custom lens replacement might be right for you. Call or visit Chu Vision Institute to schedule your initial consultation and learn if CLR is the best choice for you.
See if you are a candidate. Find out which procedure is right for you.
6 questions. Personal guidance. Expert recommendation.
Candidates for Custom Lens Replacement-Refractive Lens Exchange
Generally, Custom Lens Replacement, also known as refractive lens exchange, is most beneficial for patients with severe levels of myopia or hyperopia that aren’t able to be addressed using laser vision correction procedures. A CLR procedure may also be performed for people whose corneas are insufficiently thick for LASIK surgery or other popular types of laser eye surgery.
Most good candidates for CLR are over 40 years old, because CLR can help correct presbyopia (which is why CLR is sometimes called PRELEX, or Presbyopia Lens Exchange). In the days after your first consultation at Chu Vision Institute to see if you’re a good candidate for CLR, Dr. Chu will identify the optimal kind of artificial intraocular lens for your unique vision needs. Your IOLs will then be individually custom-made.
What Our Patients Are Saying
I am pleased with my results
I had cataract surgery for my left eye with the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL). Chu Vision Institute made sure my eyes were taken care of throughout the entire process. T...
EE
If you’re reading this and need a sign to schedule an appointment, DO IT!
PRK was the best decision I have ever done. I wouldn’t have explored surgery options with any other clinic or surgeon. Eye surgery is nerve racking, but Dr Chu and his tea...
Ciarra
I had the most amazing experience at Chu Vision!
I had the most amazing experience at Chu Vision! Every aspect of my journey getting the Light Adjustable Lens' to correct my vision was wonderful. Can't say enough of Dr Chu and...
Maria B.
I would highly recommend Dr. Chu
Dr. Chu is an excellent doctor. I felt confident in his knowledge and ability as a surgeon. He is a very kind and caring person and felt very comfortable with him. His staff is ...
Carol K.
The staffers are very professional, knowledgeable and helpful.
I knew from the moment I walked into Chu Vision, this would be where I wanted to have my cataracts taken care of. The staffers are very professional, knowledgeable and helpful. ...
Judy T.
I promise you will not just be pleased, but THRILLED!
I had been in need of cataract surgery for a while. I was having trouble finding a surgeon that I wanted to touch my eyes! Then my son had Laser Surgery at Chu Institute and was...
Pattie H.
Recovery was quick
Even with my medical background, this was out of my area of expertise, so I was pretty nervous. Quickly I was reassured by their very comprehensive examination, excellent profes...
Orlando
Very thorough, professional, and uplifting
Very thorough, professional, and uplifting
Carolyn S.
The teamwork at the Chu Vision Institute is fantastic.
The teamwork at the Chu Vision Institute is fantastic. They are careful to answer one's questions, diligent about prepping for surgery, and of course the surgeons are top notch....
Jeffrey S.
The procedure was quick and my recovery was totally painless
I had never had cataract surgery before, so thus was unexplored territory for me. The preparatory videos, however, were invaluable. I had numerous follow-up phone calls from Chu...
Brian M.
I am confident in the future health of my eyes
I had LASIK done at Chu Vision today. I was so impressed with every step of the process. They have clearly thought of each step of the client experience. I am confident in the f...
Kielyn S.
I am on the mend and my vision is amazing!
I have been going to Chu Vision for annual eye appointments for eight years. All annual appointments were done by caring professionals. This year, the need for cataract surgery ...
Linda U.
If I could give 10 stars I would!!
Chu Vision was recommended to me by a friend and I could not be happier with the facility and staff. Everyone was always so friendly, you can tell they all really enjoy what the...
Mara M.
Can see great at long distance and up close with glasses
Light (adjustable) cataract surgery lens replacement. Satisfied with the results. Can see great at long distance and up close with glasses. Professionally run organization. Ever...
Rick M.
This procedure is absolutely life-changing
I had the EVO ICL procedure done and am so happy with the results!! It’s crazy to think I won’t need contacts or glasses anymore, and waking up each morning being ab...
Andrea E.
By far the best eye vision clinic I have ever been to
This was by far the best eye vision clinic I have ever been to. They are so polite and caring. Dr. Chu absolutely knows what he is doing and so personable. Great job to the whol...
JoEllen S.
Just an amazing experience!
Absolute the Cadillac of any business I have been a part of. Excellent communication, empathic nurses and techs, excellent doctors, and best of all- my vision! I am blown away b...
Becky H.
Thank you for making me see the light (pun intended:) ).
If every health care facility operated as seamlessly and as patient oriented as this one, we would have truly compassionate, passionate and professional services that rival none...
Anonymous
I’m 20/20, and it is so freeing!
I had a refractive lens exchange (RLE) procedure with Chu nearly 2 years ago, and I still think about how much it has improved my day-to-day life nearly every day! I had extreme...
Karla R.
I now have 20/20 vision without glasses
Chu Vision is a highly professional and extremely caring Institute. My cataract surgery went well and Dr. Chu and his entire staff were amazing! They truly cared for my in...
Sherri R.
I cannot say enough GREAT things about Dr. Chu and the ENTIRE staff at Chu Vision!
I had the Implantable Contact Lens (ICL) procedure done at Chu Vision Institute, and I cannot say enough GREAT things about Dr. Chu and the ENTIRE staff at Chu Vision! I h...
Jackie O.
I'm taking lessons for my own business in how thorough they are.
I am so impressed with this clinic from start to finish. They are a well-oiled machine, and have clearly considered the patient experience all the way through. I felt comfortabl...
Kielyn S.
I can now drive without glasses.
Chu Vision did a great job. From the initial evaluations through the cataract surgery I had on both of my eyes. Everything went smoothly and as planned. It has now been three mo...
Mike K.
The team there made you feel comfortable and at ease
I had cataract surgery. The care was unbelievable the team there made you feel comfortable and at ease. All my follow up visits was all about my healing process and even the pho...
Willie F.
My life has been forever changed
I walked into Chu Vision and my life has been forever changed. I had been wearing glasses for almost 25 years and after doing my research chose Dr. Chu for my surgery. I cannot ...
Bridget V.
They made me feel comfortable and confident that I was in good hands.
Dr Chu is an excellent kind efficient ophthalmologist. His staff mirrors his effective leadership. My experience with every staff person was excellent. They made me feel comfort...
Mary Lou K.
The communication was exceptional
My mom recently had cataract surgery at Chu Vision, and the entire experience was absolutely wonderful. From start to finish, the team was timely, efficient, and incredibly cari...
Ouraphone W.
The best gift of clearer, colorful vision!
Chu Vision deserves 5 stars! Starting from initial visit to last eye exam after cataract surgeries one week apart on both eyes. Top notch surgeon and employees! Best decision I ...
Lori R.
Colors are so vibrant
Chu Vision Institute is a very efficiently and professionally run clinic. My cataract surgery was so successful! It seems like my vision is continuing to improve - it is clearer...
Kristine S.
I wish I could give them higher than a 5-star rating!
Chu Vision is amazing! Everyone who works there is phenomenal. With my Light Adjustable Lens I made many trips to this wonderful facility. I was always treated with kindness and...
Patty A.
Within 24 hours of the surgery, I’m seeing clear and my eyes feel normal.
Got LASIK done in both eyes yesterday and I couldn’t be happier. I’d recommend Chu Vision to anyone interested in LASIK surgery. Dr. Chu & everyone there did an ...
David A.
Very highly recommend Dr. Chu and his entire office
Totally positive experience with Dr. Chu and his office. There aren’t words that adequately express the patience, kindness and friendship received from Dr. Chu and every o...
Mary F.
My vision results are spot on
My experience at ChuVision was seamless, thorough and informative. My vision results are spot on to all that was expected. At times I felt the number of appointments was somewha...
Carol H.
You’ve earned a lifelong patient!
Dr. Chu and his team are truly world-class. I had the ICL procedure done on both eyes, and the entire experience was outstanding. From the initial evaluation to the day of surge...
Victor A.
Best thing that I ever did for myself
I had lasik done with Dr. Chu in April 1998. Best thing that I ever did for myself !! Now that I needed cataract surgery this fall, I would never go to anyone else. He was my he...
Sandy
Chu Vision is the best in the business!
Got LASIK done in both eyes yesterday and I couldn’t be happier. I’d recommend Chu Vision to anyone interested in LASIK surgery. Dr. Chu & everyone there did an ...
David A.
I wouldn't go anywhere else.
I cannot recommend Chu Vision enough. I went through the LASIK procedure in November, and the entire team was so supportive and caring. It was an amazing experience and I would ...
I had cataract surgery for my left eye with the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL). Chu Vision Institute made sure my eyes were taken care of throughout the entire process. They were available at all times to answer questions and treat any issue if it should arise. Dr. Chu and his staff are well trained, trustworthy and walked me through every part of the process. I am pleased with my results and if my other eye should ever need cataract surgery, I would not hesitate to use them again. Thank you to Dr. Chu and his staff!
EE
If you’re reading this and need a sign to schedule an appointment, DO IT!
PRK was the best decision I have ever done. I wouldn’t have explored surgery options with any other clinic or surgeon. Eye surgery is nerve racking, but Dr Chu and his team had my FULL trust from day 1 and I knew I was in great hands. I am seeing the best I ever have and wish I would’ve done it sooner. If you’re reading this and need a sign to schedule an appointment, DO IT!
Ciarra
I had the most amazing experience at Chu Vision!
I had the most amazing experience at Chu Vision! Every aspect of my journey getting the Light Adjustable Lens' to correct my vision was wonderful. Can't say enough of Dr Chu and his team!
Maria B.
I would highly recommend Dr. Chu
Dr. Chu is an excellent doctor. I felt confident in his knowledge and ability as a surgeon. He is a very kind and caring person and felt very comfortable with him. His staff is very efficient and friendly and my questions were addressed immediately. I would highly recommend Dr. Chu
Carol K.
The staffers are very professional, knowledgeable and helpful.
I knew from the moment I walked into Chu Vision, this would be where I wanted to have my cataracts taken care of. The staffers are very professional, knowledgeable and helpful. There was never a time where I had questions, as Chu Vision was forthcoming with answers before being asked. I so appreciate all the help, and the gift of better sight.
Judy T.
I promise you will not just be pleased, but THRILLED!
I had been in need of cataract surgery for a while. I was having trouble finding a surgeon that I wanted to touch my eyes! Then my son had Laser Surgery at Chu Institute and was beyond thrilled. My husband and I were getting ready to relocate to Minnesota at that point, so I waited. Am I glad I did! It was close to a year later and I was no longer comfortable driving, so as soon as we got settled, I began the process. Everyone at the Institute was amazing! I had so many tests to make sure every possible spot of my eyes were examined. When I finally met Dr. Chu, I knew I made the right choice. He took the time to answer any questions I still had, patiently and clearly. The surgery day came and it was really quick. About 3 days later, not only was my eye getting clearer, but for the first time in almost 30 years I could see distance without my glasses!! I was absolutely blown away! A week later, I had the second eye done. I am 4 days in now and the first eye is just about perfect and the second is following close behind!! I can't sing the praises high or loud enough for Dr. Chu and his Institute! I highly recommend them and I promise you will not just be pleased, but THRILLED! Thanks to all the employees, Drs., Techs etc., for all your help and patience as I navigated this journey in my life!!
Pattie H.
Recovery was quick
Even with my medical background, this was out of my area of expertise, so I was pretty nervous. Quickly I was reassured by their very comprehensive examination, excellent professionalism, efficiency and punctuality, excellent bedside manners and respect. Detailed information regarding the procedure was given and was always available upon request. My cataract surgery was 10 days ago, recovery was quick and the process of adjusting the lens focus will start in 3 weeks. Kudos to Dr. Chu and his team, keep it up.
Orlando
Very thorough, professional, and uplifting
Very thorough, professional, and uplifting
Carolyn S.
The teamwork at the Chu Vision Institute is fantastic.
The teamwork at the Chu Vision Institute is fantastic. They are careful to answer one's questions, diligent about prepping for surgery, and of course the surgeons are top notch. Very pleased!
Jeffrey S.
The procedure was quick and my recovery was totally painless
I had never had cataract surgery before, so thus was unexplored territory for me. The preparatory videos, however, were invaluable. I had numerous follow-up phone calls from Chu Vusion to make preparation even easier. I was totally at ease when I arrived. The procedure was quick and my recovery was totally painless.
Brian M.
I am confident in the future health of my eyes
I had LASIK done at Chu Vision today. I was so impressed with every step of the process. They have clearly thought of each step of the client experience. I am confident in the future health of my eyes and so glad I trusted Dr Chu and his team!
Kielyn S.
I am on the mend and my vision is amazing!
I have been going to Chu Vision for annual eye appointments for eight years. All annual appointments were done by caring professionals. This year, the need for cataract surgery came into the discussion and time was spent fully explaining the procedure. More information followed by videos and a meeting with Dr. Chu. The high level of personal care provided by everyone at Chu Vision was/is amazing! Both eye surgeries were recently done. I am on the mend and my vision is amazing! And, yes - I smile a lot! I highly recommend Chu Vision!
Linda U.
If I could give 10 stars I would!!
Chu Vision was recommended to me by a friend and I could not be happier with the facility and staff. Everyone was always so friendly, you can tell they all really enjoy what they do! Their scheduling was very quick and pricing is also comparable to others I have spoken to. Surgery day was a breeze and they made sure I was comfortable and understood everything that was happening and gave lots of encouragement. Dr Chu was great and super friendly! If I could give 10 stars I would!!
Mara M.
Can see great at long distance and up close with glasses
Light (adjustable) cataract surgery lens replacement. Satisfied with the results. Can see great at long distance and up close with glasses. Professionally run organization. Everyone was friendly and helpful. If I were to do it again, I would not go with the light (adjustable) lenses as it involves lots of trips to the clinic for tuning. I would go the next step down and hope for the best.
Rick M.
This procedure is absolutely life-changing
I had the EVO ICL procedure done and am so happy with the results!! It’s crazy to think I won’t need contacts or glasses anymore, and waking up each morning being able to see everything has been amazing. This procedure is absolutely life-changing, and I’m so glad I was in the care of Dr. Chu and his staff! They are the loveliest, kindest people I’ve ever met. I’m so grateful for them and the work they do for their patients!
Andrea E.
By far the best eye vision clinic I have ever been to
This was by far the best eye vision clinic I have ever been to. They are so polite and caring. Dr. Chu absolutely knows what he is doing and so personable. Great job to the whole team. Thank you so much. Highly recommend Chu Vision Institute.
JoEllen S.
Just an amazing experience!
Absolute the Cadillac of any business I have been a part of. Excellent communication, empathic nurses and techs, excellent doctors, and best of all- my vision! I am blown away by the results of my cataract surgery. I was wearing (and looking for) readers all the time. I no longer need them! Incredible. Dr. Chu has built an excellent business with everything top of the line. Just an amazing experience!
Becky H.
Thank you for making me see the light (pun intended:) ).
If every health care facility operated as seamlessly and as patient oriented as this one, we would have truly compassionate, passionate and professional services that rival none other. I cannot overstate the extent to which I am satisfied with the service received. Every team member was professional, solicitous, and sincere in their interactions. I knew I was getting the best vision practitioners, what I didn’t know is that I was getting a whole new appreciation for first rate business practices. Congratulations and thank you for making me see the light (pun intended:) ).
Anonymous
I’m 20/20, and it is so freeing!
I had a refractive lens exchange (RLE) procedure with Chu nearly 2 years ago, and I still think about how much it has improved my day-to-day life nearly every day! I had extreme myopia and astigmatism and was so dependent on contacts and glasses, neither of which were ideal. After my RLE, I don’t rely on any corrective eyewear. I’m 20/20, and it is so freeing! Yes, it is an investment, but I’m so glad I did it when I did (age 47). The team at Chu is the most professional, skilled and caring medical group I’ve ever experienced. They made sure all my questions were answered before and after the procedure, and they were so great with the older patients and their families! The procedure didn’t hurt, and the recovery time was quick. I would recommend Chu to anyone looking to improve their eyesight. Thank you, Dr. Chu and Team!
Karla R.
I now have 20/20 vision without glasses
Chu Vision is a highly professional and extremely caring Institute. My cataract surgery went well and Dr. Chu and his entire staff were amazing! They truly cared for my individual needs and within a day my visual clarity returned to my eyes. I now have 20/20 vision without glasses. I will recommend this place to all my friends and acquaintances! Thank you Chu Institute!
Sherri R.
I cannot say enough GREAT things about Dr. Chu and the ENTIRE staff at Chu Vision!
I had the Implantable Contact Lens (ICL) procedure done at Chu Vision Institute, and I cannot say enough GREAT things about Dr. Chu and the ENTIRE staff at Chu Vision! I have been wearing glasses/contacts since I was in elementary school and now have 20/20 vision! They made the process so easy and were always available to answer my questions! At my initial consultation, I felt so educated about the different options that were provided to me and I never felt like I was being forced or pushed into something that wouldn't benefit me! I also felt like they listened to me and recommended the procedure that would fit into my lifestyle the most! I show horses all over the country and I cannot believe how much easier traveling and showing is without having to carry my contacts and glasses everywhere! It is so amazing waking up in the morning and being able to go right away without fumbling for my glasses! I will DEFINITELY be recommending anyone who is interested in vision correction to check out Chu Vision Institute!
Jackie O.
I'm taking lessons for my own business in how thorough they are.
I am so impressed with this clinic from start to finish. They are a well-oiled machine, and have clearly considered the patient experience all the way through. I felt comfortable and like I was in good hands for my LASIK surgery. I'm taking lessons for my own business in how thorough they are. Thank you, Dr Chu and his team!
Kielyn S.
I can now drive without glasses.
Chu Vision did a great job. From the initial evaluations through the cataract surgery I had on both of my eyes. Everything went smoothly and as planned. It has now been three months. My vision is very good. I can now drive without glasses. I only need them to read that was my choice based on the surgery and the lens I chose.
Mike K.
The team there made you feel comfortable and at ease
I had cataract surgery. The care was unbelievable the team there made you feel comfortable and at ease. All my follow up visits was all about my healing process and even the phone follow up was comforting.
Willie F.
My life has been forever changed
I walked into Chu Vision and my life has been forever changed. I had been wearing glasses for almost 25 years and after doing my research chose Dr. Chu for my surgery. I cannot comment enough about the wonderful staff. They were so kind, knowledgeable and were able to set my mind at ease. The surgery could not have gone any better. A steady hand from Dr. Chu and within seconds my first eye was complete. He softly and calmly talked me through everything he was doing and that was key. I have had 6 months without glasses and not a day has gone by that I haven't had an Omg this is awesome moment. If you are considering having this surgery call now and you won't be disappointed!
Bridget V.
They made me feel comfortable and confident that I was in good hands.
Dr Chu is an excellent kind efficient ophthalmologist. His staff mirrors his effective leadership. My experience with every staff person was excellent. They made me feel comfortable and confident that I was in good hands. My eyesight after the cataract removal and light adjustments is great near and far. Wow. So thankful to each and everyone at Chu Vision.
Mary Lou K.
The communication was exceptional
My mom recently had cataract surgery at Chu Vision, and the entire experience was absolutely wonderful. From start to finish, the team was timely, efficient, and incredibly caring. They made sure she was well taken care of before, during, and after surgery. The communication was exceptional—we always knew what was happening, our questions were answered clearly, and the whole process was explained with care. Dr. Chu and his team went above and beyond, and the follow-up was outstanding. We couldn’t be more grateful for the excellent service and experience!
Ouraphone W.
The best gift of clearer, colorful vision!
Chu Vision deserves 5 stars! Starting from initial visit to last eye exam after cataract surgeries one week apart on both eyes. Top notch surgeon and employees! Best decision I made and given the best gift of clearer colorful vision! Wearing cheaters now to read.
Lori R.
Colors are so vibrant
Chu Vision Institute is a very efficiently and professionally run clinic. My cataract surgery was so successful! It seems like my vision is continuing to improve - it is clearer and colors are so vibrant. I'm so greatful to Dr. Chu and his terrific team!
Kristine S.
I wish I could give them higher than a 5-star rating!
Chu Vision is amazing! Everyone who works there is phenomenal. With my Light Adjustable Lens I made many trips to this wonderful facility. I was always treated with kindness and compassion by everyone who works there. Dr. Chu is so knowledgeable, amazing and very professional. He really cares and is so compassionate with all his patients as was Dr. Banal in the clinic also. I would highly recommend Chu Vision to anyone who needs cataract surgery. I wish I could give them higher than a 5-star rating!
Patty A.
Within 24 hours of the surgery, I’m seeing clear and my eyes feel normal.
Got LASIK done in both eyes yesterday and I couldn’t be happier. I’d recommend Chu Vision to anyone interested in LASIK surgery. Dr. Chu & everyone there did an amazing job throughout the whole process. They made me feel less anxious, and very comfortable throughout the procedure.
The procedure itself was painless and a lot less scary than it seems. Within 24 hours of the surgery, I’m seeing clear and my eyes feel normal. LASIK is truly life changing and better than I could have ever imagined. Chu Vision is the best in the business!
David A.
Very highly recommend Dr. Chu and his entire office
Totally positive experience with Dr. Chu and his office. There aren’t words that adequately express the patience, kindness and friendship received from Dr. Chu and every one of his staff involved with my care. Receptionists, office staff, doctors, technicians, nurses (!) - all were so professional and so happy to be helpful in answering questions, providing support and making the experience so positive. Very highly recommend Dr. Chu and his entire office for any service they provide.
Mary F.
My vision results are spot on
My experience at ChuVision was seamless, thorough and informative. My vision results are spot on to all that was expected. At times I felt the number of appointments was somewhat over the top but in reflection it’s about my eye sight which is very important to me. My rating is 5 stars. Thank you ChuVision.
Carol H.
You’ve earned a lifelong patient!
Dr. Chu and his team are truly world-class. I had the ICL procedure done on both eyes, and the entire experience was outstanding. From the initial evaluation to the day of surgery, everything was smooth, efficient, and well-organized. On the day of the procedure, I was in and out ahead of schedule, and the recovery process was seamless. I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend Dr. Chu and his clinic to friends and family. Thank you, Dr. Chu and staff — you’ve earned a lifelong patient!
Victor A.
Best thing that I ever did for myself
I had lasik done with Dr. Chu in April 1998. Best thing that I ever did for myself !! Now that I needed cataract surgery this fall, I would never go to anyone else. He was my hero in ‘98 and he’s my hero once again. My vision is so clear…no more cloudiness!! I still have to do the LAL procedure so I’m really looking forward to that too!! He is so sincerely incredible with such a kind and caring heart…Thank you Dr. Chu!!!! Has been a great experience with all of the staff too!!!
Sandy
Chu Vision is the best in the business!
Got LASIK done in both eyes yesterday and I couldn’t be happier. I’d recommend Chu Vision to anyone interested in LASIK surgery. Dr. Chu & everyone there did an amazing job throughout the whole process. They made me feel less anxious, and very comfortable throughout the procedure.
The procedure itself was painless and a lot less scary than it seems. Within 24 hours of the surgery, I’m seeing clear and my eyes feel normal. LASIK is truly life changing and better than I could have ever imagined. Chu Vision is the best in the business!
David A.
I wouldn't go anywhere else.
I cannot recommend Chu Vision enough. I went through the LASIK procedure in November, and the entire team was so supportive and caring. It was an amazing experience and I would recommend Dr. Chu and the team to anyone!
I was highly impressed with the thoroughness in their examinations of my eyes, ensuring double checks were conducted, having very knowledgeable staff and an efficient and smooth process overall. I wouldn't go anywhere else.
Kate
What You Can Expect During Your Custom Lens Replacement
At Chu Vision Institute, custom lens replacement is more than just a quick outpatient procedure—it’s a turning point. Lasting only about 15 minutes, it’s the same process as cataract surgery, just performed proactively before cataracts ever develop. Before the procedure starts, the team gently applies stingless eye drops to numb your eyes and provides a mild sedative to help you feel relaxed and comfortable. Dr. Chu will then make a tiny opening in the corneal tissue and use laser or ultrasound technology to safely disintegrate the natural lens and suction it away. Next, he will place the customized lens in the eye through the existing, almost microscopic opening, which will self-seal without the need for stitches within a week. It’s a precise, refined process designed to restore not only your vision, but your confidence in what lies ahead.
What to Expect: Recovery & Results
Once your custom lens replacement is complete and the numbing eye drops start to wear off, you may experience a bit of mild discomfort—but don’t worry, this is completely normal. This should only last about 48 hours and can be easily managed with over-the-counter pain relief. Most CLR patients begin to experience their new, improved vision in as little as 1-4 days. For many, it means reducing or even eliminating the need for glasses or contacts—a freedom that feels almost surreal.
During the first 4-12 weeks, you might experience a few instances of hazy vision, glare, and dry eyes off and on. While these symptoms can feel a little unsettling at first, they are a normal part of the adjustment process and shouldn’t be any cause for worry. Our team will schedule several follow-up appointments to monitor your recovery and make sure everything is progressing just as it should. We're with you every step of the way, guiding you toward clearer, brighter vision.
CLR Surgery Common Questions Answered
Can you have CLR surgery if you have thin corneas?
Lens replacement surgery, sometimes referred to as clear lens replacement, is another alternative to LASIK. CLR surgery replaces the natural lens and is a good option for those with thin corneas and farsightedness. The natural lens of the eye is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens during this procedure. Sharper vision is made possible by the improved lens. It’s possible for patients to stop using their reading glasses altogether. The procedure is comparable to cataract surgery except that the natural lens is clear instead of clouded, as it is when a patient has cataracts.
Will I need distance glasses after CLR?
The custom IOL chosen can affect your visual outcome. The vast majority of our CLR patients choose an Advanced Multifocal IOL. These lenses enable you to focus clearly at a variety of distances. In many cases, using a high-quality multifocal IOL will cause you to rely on glasses less following surgery, if not at all. Using premium multifocal IOLs has additional advantages, such as:
Enhanced field of view
Improved eyesight in a variety of lighting situations
Improved capability for reading and other close-up tasks
Patients who choose a basic monofocal IOL will not be able to focus at varying distances. This means they will still need glasses for close-up work even if they can see well at a distance. At Chu Vision, we perform both monofocal and multifocal IOL CLR procedures. Dr. Chu will discuss your options with you.
Is CLR good for high myopia?
The treatment of very high levels of myopia (nearsightedness) involves the new method known as custom lens replacement (CLR), sometimes also called refractive lens exchange (RLE). Patients with high myopia who are presbyopic or on the verge of presbyopia are some of the best candidates for CLR.
Can I get a Custom Lens Replacement after LASIK laser eye surgery?
If you’ve undergone laser eye surgery in the past, you may have lens replacement surgery. The natural lens within the eye is replaced during lens replacement surgery as opposed to laser eye surgery, which addresses the cornea. You can find out whether you are a good candidate for CLR by scheduling a consultation with our experienced team at Chu Vision Institute.
What is the difference between LASIK and Custom Lens Replacement (RLE)?
Both LASIK and CLR are very successful, safe treatments that provide positive outcomes. However, you could benefit more from one procedure than the other, depending on your circumstances. Taking into account your general health, your visual requirements, and other aspects, the Chu Vision Institute eye doctors will give recommendations as to which procedure is best for you. If your eyes are healthy and can endure corneal reshaping, LASIK surgery can be preferable. The majority of CLR procedures are carried out on people who were not LASIK candidates. LASIK involves reshaping the cornea to improve vision and does not enter the inside of the eye. CLR, on the other hand, replaces the natural lens of the eye with an artificial intraocular lens to provide patients with clear vision and better visual acuity.
Does Custom Lens Replacement correct astigmatism?
Numerous refractive errors, including astigmatism, presbyopia, nearsightedness, and farsightedness, may be treated by Custom Lens Replacement surgery. Premium IOLs can be used to treat astigmatism, and multifocal IOLs to enhance vision at all distances—near, intermediate, and far. Multifocal IOLs have received FDA clearance, and there are IOL choices available that can concurrently treat presbyopia and astigmatism. Your eligibility for different IOL alternatives will be determined by a thorough, dilated exam with an ophthalmologist.
Is Custom Lens Replacement permanent?
The changes are permanent after the intraocular lenses have been implanted and the CLR procedure is complete. These lenses can neither grow nor alter like the normal lens of the eye since they are made of specialized medical-grade acrylic. The lens is meant to be a permanent solution for the eyesight issues that were there previously. The patient’s eyesight can become better, sharper, and more focused after the lens implantation.
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