A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens and is a common eye condition among those aged 60 and up. The best treatment for cataract is cataract surgery— one of the most common surgeries performed today, with a success rate of at least 95%.
When a patient visits FW Specialty Surgicare in 2001 Cooper Street Fort Worth, Texas 76104 for cataract surgery, we typically discuss the various surgical options and whether or not to use a laser during the procedure.
Traditionally, cataract surgery has been performed with handheld instruments. These instruments make an incision in the eye, open the capsule that holds the cataract, remove the cataract and replace it with a clear artificial lens. With laser cataract surgery, a laser is used for many of these stages.
How Does Cataract Laser Surgery Work?
Before surgery, the medical staff will brief you on ways to prepare for the procedure and will administer a local anesthetic to ensure ultimate comfort during the surgery.
The eye surgeon will then map out the various parts of your eye with state-of-the-art laser technology for optimal precision.
The ophthalmologist will use a laser to create the opening in the capsule that holds the cataract and soften the dense cataract. The ophthalmologist will then insert a small probe with vacuum power to break up and remove the cataract, which is fragmented into manageable pieces for easy removal.
After placing the new artificial lens into your eye, the eye surgeon will cover your eye with a bandage and eye patch to allow it to heal. No sutures or stitches are required at any point.
Following the procedure, you'll be given a regimen of eye drops and will be asked to return to the eye doctor’s office for a follow-up visit the next day. You'll have a few more follow-up appointments with your eye doctor over the next weeks and months as well.
Is Cataract Laser Surgery Better Than Traditional Cataract Surgery?
This is best determined by your eye doctor, who will speak to you regarding the benefits of laser-assisted cataract surgery versus traditional surgery. In meantime, below are a few major advantages of having laser cataract surgery:
- The circular incision made in the capsule holding the lens can be more precise with a laser. It can potentially speed up surgery time and cause fewer complications. It may also reduce recovery time.
- Using a laser to break down the cataract before removal reduces the vacuum power needed to remove the cataract. It can also reduce the risk of corneal swelling post-surgery.
- The ultra-precise laser incisions may facilitate the insertion of multifocal or toric lenses, and can more accurately position the artificial lens.
- Cataract laser surgery is able to treat or correct astigmatism, something that standard cataract surgery doesn't offer.
Speak with your 2001 Cooper Street Fort Worth, Texas 76104 ophthalmologist, who will gladly discuss the benefits of cataract laser surgery that apply to your individual condition.
Is Cataract Laser Surgery Worth the Cost?
Because we use state-of-the-art technology, the cost of our laser-assisted cataract surgery is usually higher than the cost of traditional surgery. The medical staff at FW Specialty Surgicare will take the time to ensure that you feel comfortable and fully informed, whatever treatment you choose.
Cataract Laser Surgery in 2001 Cooper Street Fort Worth, Texas 76104
Whether you need cataract surgery, refractive surgery or eye disease treatment, FW Specialty Surgicare is here for you.
To schedule your consultation, call FW Specialty Surgicare in 2001 Cooper Street Fort Worth, Texas 76104 today.