Refractive lens exchange is an elective surgery where the natural lens of your eye is removed and replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL). This artificial lens functions like the natural lens, however it can correct any refractive errors typically corrected by glasses or contact lenses.
Artificial lenses are measured and ordered based on the individual’s vision prescription, needs and expectations. The procedure is meant to improve vision amongst people who may have nearsightedness, farsightedness, age-related visual changes, and/or astigmatism.
All prospective patients must obtain a referral from their optometrist prior to booking with Dr. Belliveau.

What to Expect During Surgical Consultation
All new patients at the clinic are dilated to allow for a full physical exam of the eye(s) to be conducted. Please ensure that the patient has a reliable driver for after their appointment. Patients should expect to be in the clinic for 1.5-2 hours during any initial and follow-up appointments.
All prospective surgical patients undergo various pre-tests with an ophthalmic technician prior to seeing Dr. Belliveau. These tests include biometry, topography, retinal photography and optical coherence tomography as well as visual acuity and pressure testing. In doing so, Dr. Belliveau can get a better overall view of the eye(s) and rule-out/treat any pathology prior to surgery.
After pre-testing, we allow time for the eye(s) to fully dilate. Once in an exam room, Dr. Belliveau will conduct a physical exam of the eye(s) to assess the eye’s natural lens, any signs of dry eye syndrome, and overall eye health. In consideration of pre-testing, the physical exam, and patient input, Dr. Belliveau will make a surgical recommendation for the patient including intraocular lens (IOL) choice(s) and any relevant prescriptions needed.
Finally, patients finish their visit with a surgical advisor to go over surgical booking, visual expectations, pricing, and paperwork.
What to Expect on the Day of Surgery
On the day of surgery, all patients will check in at suite 356A (Dr. Belliveau). Please ensure that the patient has the following:
- Their provincial health card (ex. MSI)
- A reliable driver post-operatively
- A payment method for associated and previously discussed costs. Please note that we do not accept AMEX or personal cheques
- An updated list of medications
- A signed copy of their consent form (provided in pre-surgical paperwork)
- Once checked-in, the patient is brought back to the pre-operative area to receive numerous dilating drops from one of our highly-trained ophthalmic technicians. These drops ensure that the pupil is large enough for the surgeon to safely perform surgery with a wide view of the natural lens
In the pre-operative area, the ophthalmic technician reviews the patient’s health history, address any patient concerns, provide post-operative education, and answer any patient/family questions. The same technician will contact the patient’s driver post-operatively.
Please note that general anesthesia is not available at Halifax Vision Surgical Centre. An oral sedative called Ativan (lorazepam) is offered to patients.
Post-operative follow-ups are typically booked the on the same day of surgery or the following day. Patients can expect to visit Dr. Belliveau or their local optometrist for a 1-month follow-up post-operatively.