Refractive lens exchange is a procedure where your surgeon removes the lens within your eye and replaces it with a man-made lens in order to minimize your prescription. This surgery is very similar to a cataract surgery with the difference being that you do not have a significant cataract prior to the surgery. It is typically used in individuals who have high levels of near-sightedness, far-sightedness, and/or astigmatism who may not be good candidates for LASIK or PRK and those who may not qualify for an ICL (Implantable Contact Lens).
RLE is often combined with an Advanced IOL to allow some capability in providing a range of vision from distance to near. Ask your doctor whether RLE is right for you.