Cataracts are one of the most widespread vision disorders, especially in elderly people. Cataract surgery is a common procedure, but if you or a family member is scheduled for it you may be wondering if there is a better way to do it. Cataract surgery has been very effective for many years now and the new technology has brought in laser surgery as a new age surgery. But is laser surgery the answer to cataracts? Here you will find information about what laser cataract surgery is, the advantages of the procedure and whether you are a candidate for it.
What is Laser Surgery for Cataracts?
Laser cataract surgery is a modern technique of carrying out several key steps of cataract surgery with the help of lasers. In the past, cataract surgery required making small cuts in the eye to break down the lens and then physically extract the cloudy material. In laser surgery, however, some of these steps are performed mechanically using the laser energy. The femtosecond laser is the main instrument used in this procedure as it is more accurate than the other methods.
Laser surgery is not a total substitute for cataract surgery; however, it can help with cutting the corneal flap, emulsifying the cataract, and even preconditioning the lens. The rationale is that utilization of a laser in the surgery could enhance the accuracy of the surgery, hence, the recovery time and vision results could be shorter.
The Benefits of Laser Cataract Surgery
Laser cataract surgery offers a number of significant advantages over traditional methods:
Precision and Accuracy
Another factor that makes laser surgery appealing is the fact that it is very precise. Laser technology enables precise cutting and better control over the incisions and tissue, and so, the risks of postoperative complications are minimized. The femtosecond laser can make very thin, precise cuts, which benefits the surgeon in completing the surgery.
Reduced Risk of Complications
Due to the enhanced accuracy, laser cataract surgery normally has fewer complications associated with it. The chance that the lens will be displaced is considerably lower, and the surgeon can control the process better. The incidence of complications after surgery, including infection or inflammation, may also be decreased.
Faster Recovery Time
Laser cataract surgery is known to have less recovery time than the normal cataract surgery that is done on patients. The laser is precise thus minimizing the trauma to the eye and enhancing the body’s ability to heal. A majority of patients can resume their usual activities within a few days, but it may take a few days more to get well.
Better Vision Outcomes
Laser surgery enables better vision results, especially when used in conjunction with modern intraocular lenses (IOLs). Because of the laser precision, surgeons are able to place the lens perfectly and this might enhance vision and ultimately do away with the need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery.
How Laser Cataract Surgery Works
Laser cataract surgery is basically the same as conventional cataract surgery but with the use of a laser. Here's an outline of how the procedure typically works:
Pre-Surgery Preparation
The first consultation with your eye surgeon is important in order to evaluate the condition of your eyes and decide whether you are a suitable candidate for laser cataract surgery. This involves determining the size and shape of your eye, and the type of cataract that you have. From these factors, your surgeon will be in a position to determine the right procedure to undertake during your surgery.
Laser-Assisted Incisions
When you are ready for the surgery, the femtosecond laser is used to make a number of carefully planned incisions to the cornea which is the clear outer surface of the eye. These cuts are required by the surgeon to reach the cataract and then to extract it.
Breaking Up the Cataract
The laser is then used to divide the cloudy lens, the cataract, into small parts in order to facilitate its removal. This step is very important in laser surgery because it may minimize the use of ultrasonic energy which is normally used in manual surgery. With the help of a laser, the cataract is broken into small pieces which can be managed easily.
Removing the Cataract and Inserting the IOL
After the formation of the cataract has been fragmented, the fragments are then swept away through vacuum. Subsequently, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted into the eye to replace the natural but opaque lens. The IOL acts as a lens to focus light on the part of the eye called the retina and thus clear vision is achieved.
Post-Surgery Monitoring
Your surgeon will also oversee your eye after the procedure in the event that there are some complications that will arise and they will advise you on how to handle your eyes during the recovery process.
Post-Surgery Care and Recovery
Recovery from laser cataract surgery is generally quick, but it’s important to follow your surgeon’s advice for the best results:
Resting Your Eyes
It is recommended that for the first couple of days after surgery you do not over exert your eyes. Some people may feel a little sore or even develop photophobia which is usually relieved in a short time.
Medication
Your doctor may prescribe eye drops to prevent infection or to reduce inflammation of the eye. The instructions must be followed and the drops should be used only in the way prescribed by the doctor.
Follow-Up Appointments
After the procedure, you may require several follow up visits to confirm that the eye is healing well. Your surgeon will assess the vision, inspect the eye, and ensure that there is no complication.
Avoiding Strenuous Activity
In the initial one to two weeks, it is advisable not to exert your body by lifting heavy objects, swimming or doing any work that will exert pressure on your eyes. You will be told that you should wear protective glasses at night so as not to injure yourself.
The vision of most patients is usually restored within a few days to a week after having the surgery done on them. Most people experience a steady improvement in vision, and many of them no longer require their glasses for most activities.
The laser cataract surgery is highly beneficial for many patients who seek safe, efficient and accurate treatment for cataracts. It has many advantages over conventional surgery: higher accuracy, less time for recovery, and better visual results. However, it is advisable to seek the services of an eye surgeon in order to find out whether laser cataract surgery is suitable for you.
At The Eye Foundation, we are proud to have the most recent cataract surgery that uses a laser in order to make the surgery shorter and with minimal effects on your vision. For cataract surgery, our team of ophthalmologists is always ready to assist you from the time you decide to undergo the surgery.
If you are having issues with your cataracts, Book Your Appointment with us today to get informed on the treatment we offer to help you regain your vision.
