What is Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is a common procedure in which the clouded, cataract-filled lens is removed from the eye and replaced with a new, artificial lens, allowing patients to achieve clear vision once again. Early versions of cataracts surgery have been around since ancient times, but the first intraocular lens were placed in 1949. Since then, cataract surgery has taken off with modern procedures requiring far less down time and delivering superior results. These days, millions of patients around the world have undergone cataract surgery and can see clearly once more!
The Types of Cataract Surgery
While there are several approaches to cataract correction, including options such as refractive lens exchange and premium intraocular lens implants, the most fundamental choice patients face is between traditional and laser cataract surgery. Both methods effectively remove the clouded natural lens and replace it with a clear artificial lens, but they differ significantly in their techniques and precision.
Traditional cataract surgery relies on handheld surgical instruments and the surgeon’s skilled hands to create incisions and break up the cataract, while laser-assisted cataract surgery uses advanced femtosecond laser technology to perform several key steps of the procedure with computer-guided accuracy. For patients interested in cataract surgery, it’s important to understand the difference in method, benefits, and challenges between each approach. We want all of our patients to be able to make an informed decision about their care, choosing the option which aligns best with their goals and eye health.
Cataract Surgery vs Laser Eye Surgery
For years, patients have undergone traditional cataract surgery, performed by a qualified surgeon. The surgeon uses a small blade to make a precises incision in the cornea, giving them access to the lens of the eye. Next, the surgeon will make a circular opening in the lens capsule which holds the natural lens, and eventually, the artificial lens as well. To break up the cataract, which are protein deposits that have settled on the lens, the surgeon will use a special ultrasonic tool and then a suction to clear the lens of the cataract pieces. Once the lens capsule has been cleaned, the artificial lens in inserted and the surgery is complete. The incision in the cornea does not require stitches and should heal relatively quickly following surgery.
For laser cataract surgery, the process is slightly different, but always overseen by a qualified surgeon. To start, a detailed map of the eye is created, measuring lens position and corneal curvature to give the laser an guide to follow. The laser is used to create an incision in the cornea and the circular opening in the lens capsule. Instead of an ultrasonic device, the femtosecond laser is used to break up the cataract into softer, smaller pieces. Next, the surgeon will remove the cataract with a suction and carefully place the IOL to ensure proper positioning.
Laser or traditional surgery may be recommended by your surgeon depending on a few factors. If you have an astigmatism that you would like corrected during cataract surgery, your surgeon may recommend laser cataract surgery. Additionally, since premium IOLs require exact placement and centering, laser surgery may be recommended if you choose a premium IOL. Overall, the cataract surgery success rate for both surgeries is very high, with no significant difference reported for outcomes or fewer complications between the two. A more significant factor comes down to the skill of your surgeon.
Pros and Cons of Laser Cataract Surgery
Laser cataract surgery is a great choice for cataract surgery with many benefits including:
- Enhanced precision for the corneal incision and capsule opening
- Potential for less corneal swelling due to lower amount of energy needed to break up the cataract
- May make premium lens placement more accurate
- May deliver faster recovery time
What are the disadvantages of laser cataract surgery? Unfortunately, the con of laser cataract surgery is that it is more expensive than traditional cataract surgery, and may not deliver better outcomes comparative to cost.
Side effects from eye laser operation side effects are generally the same as those from regular cataract surgery and may include blurry vision, a gritty feeling in the eye, and sensitivity to light. More serious side effects include infections, retinal tears, and PCO which is often called a secondary cataract.
Schedule an Appointment Today for a Cataract Consultation
The only treatment available for cataracts is traditional or laser cataract surgery! However, the surgery is very common and very effective, with most patients reporting clear vision and few complications. Laser cataract surgery provides significant benefits, but it may not be cost effective for most patients, especially when compared to the benefits achieved with traditional cataract surgery. One of the most important decisions you will make is choosing the surgeon that will perform your surgery as they will have a direct impact on your outcomes.
If you are thinking about cataract surgery and want to know if laser cataract surgery would be right for you, contact the nearest OCLI Vision office today to schedule a consultation.
