Cataract Surgery vs. Laser Treatment: pros and cons

Cataract surgery is performed in two different ways—traditional cataract surgery and laser cataract surgery. Both are highly effective and have a virtually 100% success rate, 

The following looks at the differences between the two and discusses the pros and cons of each.

Cataract Surgery vs. Laser Treatment: all your questions answere

• The major difference between traditional cataract surgery and laser treatment
• Traditional surgery pros and cons
• Laser cataract surgery pros and cons

The major difference between traditional cataract surgery and laser treatment

During traditional cataract surgery, the surgeon uses intricate tools to make a tiny incision in the side of the cornea. This is done manually, using a scalpel and forceps. A laser is used to break down the diseased lens—a process known as phacoemulsification—and the pieces are suctioned out. The surgeon then secures the new intraocular lens (IOL) in place and the eye is sealed without using stitches.

During laser surgery, the anatomy of the eye is first mapped using a computer. The whole procedure is then carried out from this 3D plan, with a laser being used to make the incision and carry out the operation. There are no hand-held tools involved—the process is automated and computer-controlled. In addition, laser treatment for astigmatism can be carried out at the same time.

Traditional surgery pros and cons

The pros of traditional cataract surgery are:

• The process has been carried out for decades and is proven and safe
• It’s less expensive than laser cataract surgery
• Medicare and insurance policies usually cover the majority of treatment
• All cataract surgery clinics and hospitals can perform the procedure

The cons:

• Only a monofocal lens can be fitted (giving you good focus for either far or near vision). This means you’ll need corrective eyeglasses for either close-up or distant sight.
• As with all manual procedures, the outcome is dependent on the skill of the surgeon performing the operation

Laser cataract surgery pros and cons

Laser-assisted cataract surgery offers the following benefits:

• There’s less trauma to the surrounding tissues. This is because a laser is used to make the incision
• Less trauma can lead to a faster recovery period
• Highly accurate, thanks to the 3D eye anatomy mapping. 
• Removing the manual processes and handheld tools negates many of the challenging steps of the cataract procedure
• Premium lenses can be fitted
• Astigmatism can be treated at the same time

The cons:

• Laser cataract surgery is considerably more expensive than traditional
• Medicare doesn’t cover the cost of this cutting-edge treatment or the cost of premium lenses. However, you can choose to pay the difference between the two. Other insurance policies may cover this procedure, depending on the terms and conditions.
• Not every location offers laser cataract treatment

The type of surgery that’s right for you will be dependent on several factors. Millions of both kinds of cataract operations are carried out each year. Complications are rare and, for most people, the procedure is smooth with complete recovery within 8 weeks.

The benefits of premium lenses are something that many people lean towards. The incredible accuracy offered by laser cataract surgery means that new types of advanced IOLs are continually being developed. As these can only be fitted during a laser cataract procedure, the percentage of people undergoing this, as opposed to a traditional operation, is gradually increasing.

Get Expert Advice About Cataract Surgery vs. Laser Treatment at the Modern Cataract Surgery Clinic

The choice of cataract surgery should always be made in conjunction with your cataract surgeon. Whether you yearn for a life without prescription lenses, want astigmatism treated, or you have complex medical and/or visual needs, there’s no better place in the US for cataract treatment than the Modern Cataract Surgery Clinic.

Discover more at https://www.moderncataractsurgery.com and call our friendly team today to book an appointment.