Traditional vs. Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), cataracts affect more than 24.4 million Americans age 40 and older. In fact, approximately half of all Americans will develop cataracts by age 75. Fortunately, the way cataracts are treated has gradually evolved and improved over time, particularly with the advent of femtosecond laser systems and advanced technology lenses. An optometrist in Land O’Lakes at Florida Eye Center, for example, utilizes LenSx® and LENSAR®, two femtosecond laser systems approved for corneal incisions, capsulotomies, and lens fragmentation, as well as specially-designed lenses, such as the AcrySof® ReSTOR® and AcrySof® Toric Intraocular Lens (IOL).

In this brief article, we’ll be exploring the differences between traditional and laser-assisted cataract surgery. It’s important for cataract patients and their loved ones to educate themselves on both options in order to make the best choice for their eyes. For any further questions or information regarding laser eye surgery in Land O’Lakes, please get in touch with a member of our team here at Florida Eye Center.

How Is Traditional Cataract Surgery Performed?

Traditional cataract surgery, also known as phacoemulsification, involves the surgeon creating a microscopic incision in your cornea with a surgical steel or diamond blade. He or she then inserts a small instrument through this opening that goes behind your pupil and creates a round opening in the capsule for a pen-shaped probe to enter. Once the probe has been inserted, it applies sound waves (ultrasound) in order to break up the cloudy lens into small pieces. After that, the surgeon suctions out the broken-up pieces, replaces your lens with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL), and closes your incision. The small incision typically seals itself naturally without the need for stitches and allows for comfortable and rapid healing.

How Is Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery Performed?

In laser-assisted cataract surgery, a camera/ultrasound device is placed over the eye to map out its surface and gather information about the lens. This information is then sent to the laser, which determines the exact location, size, and depth of the incisions. Once the surgeon has used the laser to make the incision and an opening in the capsule, an ultrasound probe breaks the lens into pieces and the surgeon suctions them out, just as they would do in traditional cataract surgery. Then, the intraocular lens is inserted, and the incision closes on its own.

Why Should I Choose Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery Over Traditional Cataract Surgery?

Compared to traditional cataract surgery, laser-assisted cataract surgery is much more accurate and may be able to reduce patient dependence on corrective lenses. Our team at Florida Eye Center specializes in this type of minimally invasive surgery, which can be performed in approximately 15 minutes in an outpatient setting. Apart from the procedure’s speed and accuracy, laser cataract surgery also allows for gentler, easier cataract removal with less inflammation, less discomfort, and improved recovery time.

If advanced cataracts are interfering with your everyday activities, such as reading or driving, laser eye surgery in Land O’Lakes can be a great option to remarkably improve your eyesight and overall quality of life. We have performed thousands of procedures with care and attention to detail every step of the way and are prepared to provide you with any information you may need regarding your options for cataract surgery. Just give us a call at (813) 972-4444 or send us an email at info@flaeyecenter.com.

To schedule a consultation with an ophthalmologist in Land O’Lakes, please request an appointment today.

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