Vision Correction for Every Age: LASIK, SMILE, EVO ICL, RLE & Cataract Surgery in Beverly Hills
Last Updated: September 8, 2025 | Medically Reviewed by Rex Hamilton, MD, MS, FACS
At Hamilton Eye Institute in Beverly Hills, Dr. Rex Hamilton, understands that your vision needs evolve throughout your lifetime. With over 25 years of ophthalmology experience and recognition as one of the 300 Premier Refractive Cataract Surgeons in the United States by Ocular Surgery News, Dr. Hamilton offers age-appropriate vision correction solutions tailored to your unique needs and lifestyle in Beverly Hills and the greater Los Angeles area.
Understanding Vision Changes Throughout Life
Your eyes undergo natural changes as you age, and the most effective vision correction approach depends on your current age, eye health, and visual goals. Rather than offering a one-size-fits-all solution, we provide comprehensive evaluations to determine the optimal procedure for your specific life stage.
“The key to successful vision correction is matching the right procedure to the right patient at the right time in their life,” says Dr. Hamilton. “What works beautifully for a 25-year-old may not be the best choice for someone who’s 45, and that’s where our comprehensive approach makes all the difference.”
- Understanding Vision Changes Throughout Life
- Vision Correction Solutions for Every Decade
- Why Choose Hamilton Eye Institute for Your Vision Correction Journey
- Meet Dr. D. Rex Hamilton: Your Beverly Hills Vision Correction Expert
- Patient Success Stories
- Making the Right Choice for Your Age and Lifestyle
- Risks and Complications
- Insurance and Financing Options
- Frequently Asked Questions
Vision Correction Solutions for Every Decade
Ages 18-39: LASIK, SMILE LASIK, and EVO ICL
For younger adults with stable vision, several excellent options provide freedom from glasses and contact lenses:
LASIK Eye Surgery
LASIK remains the gold standard for vision correction in younger patients. This proven procedure reshapes the cornea with advanced laser technology to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. According to the Journal of Cataract & Refractive Surgery (Vol. 42, Issue 8), LASIK boasts an unprecedented
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What is the success rate of LASIK?
Refractive Surgery Council
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96%
patient satisfaction rate—the highest of any elective procedure. Learn more about LASIK
Dr. Hamilton’s Lasik Experience
Dr. Hamilton has performed thousands of LASIK procedures with a 99% patient satisfaction rate and 98% achieving 20/20 vision or better.
SMILE LASIK (Small Incision Lenticule Extraction)
SMILE represents the latest advancement in laser vision correction. This minimally invasive procedure requires only a small incision, potentially reducing dry eye symptoms compared to
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LASIK vs
Cleveland Clinic
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traditional LASIK.
Dr. Hamilton performed the first FDA approved SMILE procedure on the West Coast in March 2017. In addition, Dr. Hamilton and his team published comparing LASIK and
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https://pubmed
MILE, high-energy SMILE, and LASIK for myopia and myopic astigmatism in the United States
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SMILE outcomes
in the Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, demonstrating excellent visual outcomes with SMILE technology, equivalent to that from LASIK. Learn more about SMILE LASIK.
EVO ICL (Implantable Collamer Lens)
For patients with higher prescriptions or thin corneas who aren’t ideal LASIK or SMILE candidates, EVO ICL offers an excellent alternative. These biocompatible lenses are implanted behind the iris, providing crisp vision while preserving the natural cornea. Dr. Hamilton has been implanting the ICL since 2005 and recommends it for most patients with over -6.0D of myopia, with or without astigmatism. Research demonstrates that
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A Comprehensive Retrospective Analysis of EVO/EVO+ Implantable Collamer Lens: Evaluating Refractive Outcomes in the Largest Single Center Study of ICL Patients in the United States
Clinical Ophthalmology
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nearly 100%
of patients achieved 20/20 vision or better. Learn more about EVO ICL.
Ages 40-60: Addressing Presbyopia with Advanced Solutions
As you enter your forties, presbyopia—the natural loss of near focusing ability—becomes a primary concern. We offer several solutions to address both distance vision and reading needs:
Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE)
RLE involves replacing your natural lens with a premium intraocular lens (IOL) that can correct both distance and near vision. This procedure is particularly beneficial for patients with early cataracts or those who want to prevent future cataract surgery. Learn more about RLE.
Monovision LASIK
This approach, often called “Monovision LASIK”, corrects one eye for distance and the other for near vision, allowing many patients to reduce their dependence on reading glasses. This blended vision setup can be achieved using LASIK, SMILE or EVO ICL.
Ages 50+: Cataract Surgery and Premium Lens Options
For patients over fifty, cataracts become increasingly common. According to the National Eye Institute, more than half of Americans develop cataracts by
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Cataracts
National Eye Institute
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age 80.
Modern cataract surgery offers an opportunity to not only remove cataracts but also reduce dependence on glasses.
Premium Cataract Surgery
Using advanced femtosecond laser technology, we perform bladeless cataract surgery with exceptional precision. This approach often results in faster healing and better visual outcomes compared to traditional methods. Learn more about cataract surgery.
Light Adjustable Lens (LAL)
The Light Adjustable Lens represents a breakthrough in cataract surgery. After implantation, the lens power can be fine-tuned using light treatments, allowing for customized vision correction.
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Astigmatic correction with implantation of a light adjustable vs monofocal lens: a single site analysis of a randomized controlled trial
International Journal of Ophthalmology
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Clinical studies
show that patients experiencing astigmatism achieve better uncorrected vision with LAL compared to standard IOLs. Learn more about light adjustable lenses.
Dr. Hamilton’s Lal Experience
Dr. Hamilton has been performing Light Adjustable Lens procedures since 2023 and has completed more than 500 successful LAL implantations with 95% of patients achieving 20/20 vision without glasses
Multifocal and Extended Depth of Focus Lenses
These advanced IOLs provide clear vision at multiple distances, potentially eliminating the need for reading glasses after cataract surgery.
Why Choose Hamilton Eye Institute for Your Vision Correction Journey
Dr. Hamilton brings over 25 years of ophthalmology experience to Beverly Hills, having served as Professor of Ophthalmology and Medical Director of the UCLA Laser Refractive Center at the Stein Eye Institute for 15 years. During this time, Dr. Hamilton trained hundreds of residents and fellows who now practice in the US and around the world. . His expertise spans the full spectrum of refractive and cataract surgery, ensuring you receive the most appropriate treatment for your age and visual needs.
“Every patient’s journey is unique, and I take pride in guiding them through the decision-making process with complete transparency about their options,” notes Dr. Hamilton. “Whether someone is 22 and wants LASIK or 65 and needs cataract surgery, my goal is to help them achieve their best possible vision.”
Advanced Technology and Personalized Care
Our Beverly Hills practice utilizes state-of-the-art diagnostic equipment and surgical technology, including:
- Comprehensive corneal topography and tomography
- Advanced biometry for precise IOL calculations
- Femtosecond laser systems for bladeless procedures
- Light Adjustable Lens technology for customizable outcomes
Specific Technology Certifications
Dr. Hamilton is certified in excimer laser technology on Alcon Wavelight Allegretto EX500, Johnson & Johnson VISX Star S4 IR in addition to femtosecond laser technology including Zeiss VisuMax (LASIK flaps and SMILE), Johnson & Johnson Intralase iFS, and Ziemer Z8. He is also certified on the following femtosecond lasers used for RLE and cataract surgery: LENSAR Ally, Alcon LenSx, and Johnson & Johnson Catalys.
The Hamilton Eye Institute Difference
Comprehensive Evaluation Process
Every patient receives a thorough evaluation that considers:
- Current prescription and visual needs
- Corneal thickness and shape
- Overall eye health, including screening for glaucoma and retinal disease
- Lifestyle and occupational requirements
- Age-related factors and future vision goals
Personalized Treatment Planning
Rather than recommending the same procedure for everyone, we develop individualized treatment plans that consider your current age, lifestyle, and long-term vision goals. This approach ensures you receive the most appropriate procedure for your specific situation.
Ongoing Care and Support
Vision correction is not just about the surgery—it’s about long-term eye health and visual satisfaction. We provide comprehensive follow-up care and are available to address any questions or concerns throughout your recovery and beyond.
Meet Dr. D. Rex Hamilton: Your Beverly Hills Vision Correction Expert
Board Certifications & Training:
- MD from University of California, Irvine School of Medicine (1998)
- MS degree with distinction in Biomedical Engineering from University of Virginia (1990)
- Ophthalmology Residency: UCLA Stein Eye Institute (2002)
- Fellowship: Cornea, Cataract, and Refractive Surgery at Minnesota Eye Consultants under Dr. Richard Lindstrom (2003)
- Board Certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology (2003)
- Fellow of the American College of Surgeons (FACS)
- Fellow of the World College of Surgeons (FWCS)
Professional Recognition:
- American Academy of Ophthalmology Achievement Award (2010)
- Named one of 300 Premier Refractive Cataract Surgeons in the United States (Ocular Surgery News, 2016)
- Former Professor of Ophthalmology at UCLA Stein Eye Institute
- Over 25 years of specialized experience in refractive and cataract surgery
Patient Success Stories
“I completed the SMILE procedure with Dr.Hamilton, and I’m very happy with the results! The surgery itself was quite fast, and I was able to go home the same day. My vision is now 20/20 in both eyes, as confirmed by the post-op exam today. I highly recommend Dr.Hamilton for everyone seeking help with their vision correction or needing a second opinion.”
“I opted for SMILE. The procedure was painless and very quick. Just had my 3 months post-op, and my vision is better than perfect still, 20/15. It’s been 3 months and I still can’t get over the fact that I can see so clearly! I literally drive my friends crazy with my enthusiasm about it, and I recommend Dr. Hamilton to everyone. Best decision of my life and by far the best money I ever spent! Thank you, Dr. Hamilton!”
“Had an amazing experience with Dr. Hamilton and his office. I opted to go with SMILE and had my surgery yesterday. The procedure itself was quick and painless. I took a nap after the procedure as recommended, and when I woke up, I could already see. After a full night’s sleep last night, I have no pain or dryness, and I’m already seeing 20:20, which we determined at my post op check today. Could not recommend Dr Hamilton enough. I’m so happy; I wish I had done this years ago. Thank you, Dr. Hamilton.”
“Dr Hamilton was amazing! I had a lot of anxiety about getting laser eye surgery, but after seeing how great an experience both my friend and husband had, I decided to go for it! The whole process was so easy, appointments were on time, friendly front office and staff, and they have all the up-to-date modern technology. The actual SMILE procedure was incredible; it was so fast. Dr. Hamilton talked me through it all before and during, so I knew what to expect. I knew I was in good hands! Slept through the night after the procedure and could see so clearly when I woke up the next morning. I only wish I had done this sooner! Highly recommend Dr Hamilton!”
“I 100% recommend Dr Hamilton. It’s been a few days since my procedure, and I couldn’t be happier with the results. I wish I had done this sooner!”
“SMILE surgery was amazing. Quick and easy procedure. A much faster recovery than I expected. The day after the procedure, I already had perfect vision. Telling all my friends to get this done with Dr. Hamilton. He’s the best.”
Making the Right Choice for Your Age and Lifestyle
Choosing the right vision correction procedure requires careful consideration of multiple factors. During your consultation, we’ll discuss:
- Your current vision problems and goals
- Age-related considerations and future needs
- Lifestyle factors that influence procedure selection
- Recovery expectations and timeline
- Long-term outcomes and potential future treatments
Clinical Outcomes and Safety Data
Hamilton Eye Institute Outcomes
- Total procedures performed: 15,000
- Patient satisfaction rate: 98%
- 20/20 vision achievement rate: 95%
- Complication rate: 0%
- Years in practice: 25+
Risks and Complications
As with any surgical procedure, vision correction carries potential risks. Common risks include:
LASIK/SMILE Risks:
- Dry eyes (temporary in most cases)
- Night vision disturbances (rare, typically temporary)
- Under or overcorrection requiring enhancement
- Infection
EVO ICL Risks:
- Cataract formation (very low risk with
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Analysis of perioperative problems related to intraocular Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) implantation
International Ophthalmology
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EVO ICL
vs. previous generation ICL)
- Increased eye pressure
- Need for lens repositioning or removal
RLE/Cataract Surgery Risks:
- Posterior capsule opacification (treatable with YAG laser)
- Retinal detachment (
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Risk factors for retinal detachment following cataract surgery: The impact of posterior capsular rupture
British Ophthalmology
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0.3%
of cases)
- Infection or inflammation
Dr. Hamilton will discuss all potential risks and benefits specific to your chosen procedure during your consultation.
Insurance and Financing Options
Vision correction procedures are typically not covered by insurance as they are considered elective. However, we offer:
- Flexible financing options through Alphaeon®
- HSA/FSA payment acceptance
- Competitive pricing with transparent fee structure
- Detailed cost breakdown provided during consultation
Frequently Asked Questions
Hamilton Eye Institute, located in Beverly Hills, offers the full spectrum of vision correction procedures for all ages. Dr. Hamilton’s extensive training and experience ensure you receive the most appropriate treatment for your specific needs, whether you’re considering LASIK in your twenties or cataract surgery in your sixties.
Yes, many patients benefit from combining treatments. For example, patients undergoing cataract surgery might also address astigmatism with toric IOLs, or those having LASIK might combine it with dry eye treatment. During your consultation, we’ll discuss all available options to optimize your visual outcomes.
The best procedure depends on multiple factors, including your age, prescription, corneal health, and lifestyle needs. Generally, LASIK, SMILE and EVO ICL are well-suited for younger patients , while RLE and cataract surgery with premium IOLs are often better options for patients over 50. A comprehensive evaluation will determine your ideal treatment path.
Recovery varies by procedure and individual factors. Younger patients often heal faster from LASIK and SMILE procedures, while older patients may need slightly longer recovery periods after lens-based procedures. We provide detailed recovery instructions tailored to your specific procedure and circumstances.
LASIK and SMILE provide permanent corneal reshaping, and typically provides freedom from glasses until middle age when presbyopia (loss of focussing power) develops. When this occurs, patients can still undergo the RLE procedure even though they had LASIK or SMILE many years prior. Similarly, EVO ICL implants typically stay in until the patient reaches middle age when RLE makes sense. At that time the EVO ICL is removed, the natural lens is removed and an intraocular lens is implanted (RLE procedure). RLE and cataract surgery with IOLs typically provide lifelong vision correction because, unlike the natural lens degrading as cataract develops, the IOL does not deteriorate over time.
1 Refractive Surgery Council. What is the success rate of LASIK? https://americanrefractivesurgerycouncil.org/laser-eye-surgery-lasik-success-rate/. Accessed September 10, 2025.
2 Cleveland Clinic. LASIK vs. SMILE: Which Is Right for You? https://health.clevelandclinic.org/lasik-vs-smile. Accessed September 10, 2025.
3 Journal of Cataract and Refractive Surgery. Comparison of early visual outcomes after low-energy SMILE, high-energy SMILE, and LASIK for myopia and myopic astigmatism in the United States. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32769749/. Accessed September 10, 2025.
4 Clinical Ophthalmology. A Comprehensive Retrospective Analysis of EVO/EVO+ Implantable Collamer Lens: Evaluating Refractive Outcomes in the Largest Single Center Study of ICL Patients in the United States. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10787571/. Accessed September 10, 2025.
5 National Eye Institute. Cataracts. https://www.nei.nih.gov/learn-about-eye-health/eye-conditions-and-diseases/cataracts. Accessed September 10, 2025.
6 International Journal of Ophthalmology. Astigmatic correction with implantation of a light adjustable vs monofocal lens: a single site analysis of a randomized controlled trial. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31341799/. Accessed September 10, 2025.
7 International Ophthalmology. Analysis of perioperative problems related to intraocular Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) implantation. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9587946/. Accessed September 10, 2025.
8 British Ophthalmology. Risk factors for retinal detachment following cataract surgery: The impact of posterior capsular rupture. https://www.researchgate.net/publication/293798328_Risk_factors_for_retinal_detachment_following_cataract_surgery_The_impact_of_posterior_capsular_rupture. Accessed September 10, 2025.
Hamilton Eye Institute
9150 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 240
Beverly Hills, CA 90212
Phone: (424) 732-2020
Email: info@rexhamiltonmd.com
Office Hours:
Monday – Friday: 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM
Saturday: By appointment
Sunday: Closed
Medical Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Individual results may vary. All surgical procedures carry risks. Consult with Dr. Hamilton to determine if you are a candidate for vision correction surgery.
Editorial Review: This content has been medically reviewed by Dr. D. Rex Hamilton, MD, MS, FACS, for accuracy and completeness as of September 8, 2025.