Understanding the Difference Between Traditional and Laser Cataract Surgery

Understanding the Difference Between Traditional and Laser Cataract Surgery

One of the most recent advancements in cataract surgery has been the introduction of the refractive cataract laser. The laser-assisted cataract surgery uses femtosecond laser technology to bring more accuracy and precision to certain steps in cataract surgery that were traditionally performed manually with surgical tools. While there are numerous advantages of laser surgery over the traditional procedure, shorter recovery being one of them. Continuing on the subject, in this blog post, we highlight the key differences between traditional cataract surgery and the refractive laser treatment. Read on.

The aim of Texas Eye Consultant during cataract surgery is to remove the clouded lens of the eye and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens or IOL. In the traditional procedure, cataract surgery specialists use a vibrating needle and a small blade to break the cataract, make an incision in the cornea, and replace the lens. The laser procedure replaces the use of surgical instrumentations with ultrasound and laser. The apparatus used in this procedure is an advanced augmented reality imaging system that provides the doctor with a detailed 3D view of the eye.

Cataract surgery involves correctly sizing and fitting the replacement lens by making a circular incision in the cornea. In laser surgeries, the laser creates a precise opening in the cornea, which is approximately ten times more accurate than the one made manually by doctors. Besides, laser surgery is helpful in treating astigmatism or an irregular-shaped cornea and improving the vision of the patients over the traditional method.

Both laser and traditional cataract surgeries involve almost the same recovery time. The patient’s vision will be sensitive for the first day which is why they should avoid driving in poor visibility, using their eyes in low-light conditions, and focusing on precise tasks like reading small print. Generally, both surgeries are completed within 20 minutes and recovery takes around 3 days to set the eyes free of cataracts and blurriness.

Although laser treatment allows a cataract specialist to make infinitesimally more precise incisions in the cornea, the final outcome of both the surgeries is almost similar. In June 2017, the Ophthalmology and Therapy journal noted that both methods of cataract treatments are extremely successful and safe and the ultimate outcome greatly depends on the fineness and experience of the cataract specialist performing the operation.

When deciding whether to treat a cataract through a laser or traditional surgery, the determination ultimately comes down to what patients want from their surgery. Some individuals simply want to replace a cataract with a clear implant and are satisfied to wear glasses, while others are willing to pay extra to get the best possible vision they can get without having to wear corrective glasses. As they weigh their options regarding getting a traditional or a laser eye surgery for cataracts, it is important to contact eye specialists about vision needs, resources, and expectations for life after cataract surgery. To choose the right cataract treatments in Texas, look no further than Texas Eye and Cataract. To schedule a no-obligation consultation, simply call +1 469-505-2020.