Cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures in the country, and 10 million cataract surgeries are performed every year around the world. With new advances in technology, cataract surgery today is safer and provides better outcomes than ever. Depending on the options you choose, you can even test drive your vision and make changes after surgery, and say goodbye to glasses for good!
From laser cataract surgery to light-adjustable lenses, there truly are endless options to personalize your treatment. Learn more about the latest advances here, or ask your eye surgeon for help making the best choices for you.
What Is Cataract Surgery?
Cataracts are a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. They are a normal part of aging and the most common form of reversible blindness in the United States. It’s estimated that around 60% of people over age 60 have at least one cataract.
During cataract surgery, an eye surgeon takes the cloudy lens of the eye and replaces it with a clear lens so the patient can see normally again. The process takes only about 15 to 20 minutes per eye, and most patients don’t experience any pain after surgery.
Advances in Laser Cataract Surgery
One of the ways cataract surgery has improved is through a technique called laser cataract surgery. Laser cataract surgery uses laser technology to assist with some of the crucial and delicate components of the procedure and is computer guided. It results in a safer, gentler procedure and maximizes the potential for better visual outcomes. That allows eye surgeons to correct a wide range of vision problems, including astigmatism, far- and near-sightedness at the time of cataract surgery. This gives patients the option to correct two eye conditions with one procedure and reduces the need for glasses.
New Light-Adjustable Lens
Recently, our surgeons at Florida Eye Specialists were the first in the region to offer the groundbreaking Light Adjustable Lens technology. It’s a special type of cataract lens implant that can be customized after cataract surgery using ultraviolet light treatments. It puts the power in the patient’s hands to test their vision and make adjustments, just like we would with glasses or contacts.
After cataract surgery with the Light Adjustable Lens, patients meet with their eye doctor to preview and compare prescription changes to choose the option that looks best to them. Our experienced ophthalmologists use a series of up to three light treatments to customize the photosensitive material of the lens. Each treatment is painless and takes one to three minutes to complete.
Other Lenses to Match Your Lifestyle
The Light Adjustable Lens is the newest of many intraocular lenses you can choose from when customizing your cataract surgery. That’s why it’s essential to meet with a cataract specialist before making any decisions. Your doctor will recommend options based on any astigmatism, prior refractive surgery, night-driving needs, and hobbies like golf or reading. We customize the lens to the patient’s lifestyle, as it’s not a one-size-fits-all.
If cataracts are impacting your daily life, you don’t need to live with impaired vision or wait for surgery. Make an appointment with a cataract consultant today.
Kenzo J. Koike, M.D., is a board-certified ophthalmologist at Florida Eye Specialists. For more information on Dr. Koike and his specialties treating cataracts and glaucoma, go to FloridaEyeSpecialists.com or call 904-564-2020.
