Glasses and contact lenses are common ways for people with vision problems to see more clearly. However, more serious issues may require eye surgery, such as cataracts.
Cataracts are a medical condition caused by the clouding of the ocular lens, which is normally clear. Like looking through a frosted window, the obstructed visual acuity interferes with routine activities like reading, driving, or identifying faces.
Cataract surgery, which removes the cloudy cataract to help you see well again, is the only option to regain clear sight once cataracts develop. Read more to learn about the innovative procedure and if it's right for you.
What is Laser Cataract Surgery?
Laser cataract surgery, as performed at Southwest Florida Eye Care, is an advanced procedure designed to help people suffering from clouded vision due to cataracts regain clarity in their sight. Utilizing state-of-the-art laser technology allows for more precise incisions, ensuring improved accuracy and consistency.
As part of the procedure, your natural lens, clouded by the cataract, is carefully removed and replaced with an artificial one called an intraocular lens (IOL) implant.
Read the blog Preparing for Laser Cataract Surgery: What to Expect for more information on the laser cataract surgical process.
Benefits of Laser Cataract Surgery
- 3D Eye Mapping: The procedure provides a detailed view of your eye, enabling the surgeon to perform the procedure with exceptional precision.
- High Precision and Consistency: The VICTUS Femtosecond Laser Platform allows for more precise incisions, reducing the risk of complications such as infection, inflammation, bleeding, and astigmatism.
- Accuracy in Difficult Cases: The high-tech laser can handle complicated or advanced cataracts that interfere with treating other eye problems, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration. The laser fragments and softens the cataract to break it into small pieces, making it easier to remove with less energy and time.
- Correction of Astigmatism: Some laser cataract surgeries can also correct astigmatism, improving overall vision clarity by creating specific incisions or patterns on the cornea.
- Potential to Avoid Glasses: In many cases, patients may not need to wear glasses post-surgery by selecting premium IOLs that can correct for more than just distance vision.
What Are My Options?
Depending on your vision goals and preferences, you may have different options for laser cataract surgery. Below are some common options offered by Southwest Florida Eye Care.
Advanced Vision
Advanced Vision is ideal for those seeking complete freedom from glasses, offering clear vision for all distances, from close-up tasks to far-off sights. The operation involves several steps:
- Cataract laser surgery
- Advanced IOL implant
- Astigmatism treatment
- Corneal topography
- LASIK enhancement (when necessary)
Custom Vision
Custom Vision is a great choice for those who don't mind wearing glasses for close-up tasks but desire improved distance vision. The process involves:
- Cataract laser surgery
- Astigmatism treatment
- Shape-matched implant
- Corneal topography
- LASIK enhancement (if necessary)
Basic+ Vision
For those primarily focused on a cataract removal procedure to improve overall clarity, Basic+ Vision may be the best fit. Patients choosing this option will still require eyeglasses after surgery. The procedure entails:
- Manual cataract surgery
- Corneal topography
- Shape-matched implants
Who is Eligible For Laser Cataract Surgery?
A comprehensive eye examination is performed to determine eligibility for laser cataract surgery. However, generally, the following criteria are considered:
- Age Above 40: Cataracts primarily begin to develop after age 40.
- Diagnosed with Cataracts: Official diagnosis of cataracts by an ophthalmologist.
- Impaired Vision: A significant impairment in vision that affects daily activities.
- General Health: Good overall health with no major health conditions that may complicate surgery.
- Assessment of Eye Health: The eye must be healthy apart from the diagnosed cataract.
- Understanding of Procedure: An understanding of the benefits, risks, alternatives, and follow-up care associated with laser cataract surgery.
Book Your Eye Exam with Southwest Florida Eye Care
Laser cataract surgery is not a one-size-fits-all solution. It's important to consult with your eye care specialist to discuss your situation and make an informed decision. They can thoroughly examine and provide personalized advice based on your eye health and lifestyle needs. If you're looking for "cataract eye surgery near me," book an appointment with one of our Southwest Florida Eye Care locations in Cape Coral, Naples, or Fort Myers today.
**The advice in this blog is for general informational purposes only and may not be suited for your exact insurance plan and optical needs. It is important to consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized advice and treatment on cornea care in Southwest Florida.**