A Walkthrough of Laser Cataract Surgery

Cataracts are a condition that’s virtually guaranteed to affect all of us as we get older. It’s estimated that, by the age of 80, pretty much everyone will either have them or have had an operation to remove the diseased lenses. 

Once you understand that, it makes sense that cataract surgery is the most commonly carried out procedure in the world.

Of course, it’s still a worry if and when the time comes to go under the knife. Understanding what’s going to happen can go a long way to calming any anxiety you might have. The following walks you through exactly what will happen if you undergo the latest form of remedial work—laser cataract surgery.

Laser Surgery for Cataracts: a walkthrough

• Step 1: laser surgery cataracts walkthrough
• Step 2: laser surgery cataracts walkthrough
• Step 3” laser surgery cataracts walkthrough 

Step 1: laser surgery cataracts walkthrough

The first step of laser cataract surgery is the surgeon’s assessment. This is where you’ll undergo a dilated eye examination and various other tests. This allows your eye doctor to determine the ideal time for the procedure and to talk to you about the types of artificial lenses on offer.

These lenses are called “intraocular lenses” or IOLs. The main types include:

• Monofocal lenses: These provide the best vision at a single distance. If you choose to have them set for distance, which is the most common, then you’ll be prescribed glasses to wear for close-up tasks, such as reading.
• Multifocal lenses: This is a premium lens that, as the name suggests, will allow you to focus on different distances—bi-focal for near and far-vision or tri-focal for intermediate vision focus as well.
• Toric lenses: Another premium lens that has an additional element for astigmatism
• Accommodative lenses: This premium lens used the muscles of the eyes to allow for changes of focus at all distances
• Extended-depth-of-focus lenses: Knowns as EDOF, these use clever technology to stretch a single corrective zone to give focus at both intermediate and far distance

Step 2: laser surgery cataracts walkthrough

Once the examinations are complete and choice of lens is determined, the next step is the surgery itself. You’ll arrange a date and will present at the surgeon’s office. The procedure only takes around 20 minutes, meaning you’ll return home the same day. 

Your eye will be numbed, either with eye drops or a needle-based nerve block. An instrument is placed over the eye that maps the exact geometry of the internal structures. This data is used to make a computer program that guides the movement of the laser throughout the procedure. The eye cover will also hold your eye open, meaning you’ll be unable to blink.

The laser will make a tiny incision through the cornea and into the lens capsule. The same laser will then break down the diseased lens—a process known as phacoemulsification—and the fragments suctioned out. If you’re having astigmatism treated at the same time, then the laser will also reshape the cornea.

The new lens will be accurately placed once the old one has been removed. No stitches are required to seal the tiny hole.  

Step 3: laser surgery cataracts walkthrough 

Once the procedure is over, a special eye patch will be placed over the eye. After you’ve recovered, you’ll be able to return home. You won’t be able to drive and will have to wear sunglasses to protect the eye.

Laser Cataract Surgery Recovery 

• The recovery period

The recovery period

Recovery is generally very fast. Many people notice a great improvement over the next 48 hours. You’ll have to wear the eye patch while sleeping for a few days to prevent inadvertent rubbing. Your surgeon will advise on appropriate pain relief and any post-operative care. He or she will want to see you within a few days to check that the healing process is progressing. You’ll be encouraged to read, watch tv, and use the eye as normal almost immediately. However, you should refrain from any exertion or lifting for a few weeks.

Within 6 weeks you should have recovered completely. 

Worried About Cataracts? Get Dedicated Treatment at Modern Cataract Surgery at the WBEC 

Modern Cataract Surgery at the West Boca Eye Center is a world-leading facility offering the most advanced treatment for cataracts and other eye conditions. Led by global expert, Brent Bellotte MD., patients benefit from cutting-edge surgery and IOLs that often aren’t available elsewhere. 

Discover more about laser cataract surgery at (website link) and get in touch with our friendly team today to book your initial consultation.