Refractive Lens Exchange: A Game-Changer for Elite Fashion Designer Norisol Ferrari

Who is a good candidate for refractive lens exchange surgery? 

Initially, Norisol visited Dr. Assil to explore LASIK eye surgery, a laser vision correction procedure, in the hope that it could help address her vision challenges. LASIK reshapes the cornea and is designed to correct nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness, and astigmatism, and often eliminates the need for glasses or contact lenses altogether.

However, after a brief evaluation, Dr. Assil, one of the country’s leading LASIK surgeons, recommended refractive lens exchange (RLE), also known as lens extraction, as the more suitable option for Norisol’s needs. This lens implant procedure uses an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to correct refractive errors such as presbyopia (the age-related hardening of the eye’s natural lens that affects the ability to focus), farsightedness, and nearsightedness.

Though some patients experience side effects after IOL implantation, such as halos or glare around lights, especially when driving at night, those side effects are typically only temporary.

“With LASIK, you can correct one eye for near vision and the other for distance, but you can’t achieve both with each eye,” her eye surgeon explained. “With the RLE procedure, the eye’s natural lens is replaced with an artificial IOL.

“The new state-of-the-art Johnson and Johnson Odyssey lens is an excellent option for an artificial IOL, as each eye can see clearly at all distances—from near to far,” Dr Assil continued. “But despite its incredible capabilities, the Odyssey lens isn’t the right lens for everyone.”

Norisol’s journey to vision clarity 

Norisol agreed with Dr. Assil’s recommendation and opted for an RLE procedure (also known as a clear lens exchange) without hesitation. This involves replacing the patient’s lens with an IOL, so the next decision was to determine which type of IOL would best suit her specific vision needs. 

Dr. Assil outlined the various options:

A monofocal IOL 

This lens corrects vision at a single fixed distance. 

A multifocal IOL

This offers multiple zones for near, intermediate, and distance vision. 

An accommodative IOL lens

This type of lens adapts to provide a broader range of vision than monofocal lenses.

A toric IOL lens

This lens corrects astigmatism, much like a toric contact lens.

Extended depth of focus IOL

Extended depth of focus IOLs (or EDFs) cover intermediate and distance vision.

After a thorough examination, Dr. Assil assured Norisol that the new Odyssey multifocal lens, which simultaneously provides clear vision at multiple focal points, like a trifocal lens, was right for her.

“With the Odyssey lens, both eyes can achieve seamless focus at different distances—just like the natural lenses of someone with perfect vision. To top it off, it would also eliminate her need for reading glasses,” Dr. Assil shared.

Norisol said, “I was thrilled at the prospect of exceptional eyesight after a lifetime of blurred vision. I could not wait!”

A smooth and simple surgery 

Despite her initial nerves on the day of surgery, Norisol found the outpatient procedure surprisingly easy. “I was terrified, but Dr. Assil and his entire team made me feel at ease,” she said. Once she had been administered with a mild sedative, she remained relaxed throughout the process. Less than 30 minutes later, she emerged from surgery with new and improved vision.

“I was scared of the surgical procedure for no reason at all,” Norisol admitted. “My recovery time was so short, and I felt better almost immediately. I had to use eye drops for a few days to prevent infection before my follow-up appointment, and that was it. I was told that during RLE surgery recovery, patients occasionally report blurred or double vision for a few days, but I had clear vision immediately after my lens replacement surgery. Any fears I had were completely unfounded.”

A visionary life without glasses 

Today, Norisol continues to thrive, and her designs frequently attract national headlines. One example is a knee-length black coat recently worn by First Lady Melania Trump. Her contributions extend beyond fashion into entertainment, with work on projects like “David & Fatima,” “Viva Hollywood!,” and Double Dutchess: Seeing Double,” to name just a few.

So, what does Norisol tell her friends and collaborators about the experience? “If you can undergo refractive lens extraction with Dr. Assil, don’t wait,” she urges. “My quality of life has improved so much. My only regret is that I’d wish I’d done it a lot sooner.”

Why choose Assil Gaur Eye Institute for vision correction in Los Angeles?

The Assil Gaur Eye Institute (AGEI) is renowned for its expertise in refractive lens exchange procedures, intraocular lens implantation, laser vision correction and enhancement, premium cataract surgery, and many more eye care conditions and procedures. 

Their team of experienced ophthalmologists and optometrists ranks among the most skilled in the United States. They specialize in LASIK, PRK, cataract surgery, and refractive lens exchange.

With state-of-the-art ophthalmology technology and a commitment to patient care, AGEI offers advanced treatment for various ocular conditions, including hyperopia, glaucoma, macular degeneration, retinal issues (including retinal detachment), corneal conditions, and more.

Take the first step toward crystal-clear vision—call (866) 945-2745 to schedule your free LASIK consultation or request an appointment online.