Do you have cataracts and need cataract surgery to remove them? The natural lens of the eye has to be replaced with an artificial lens to remove a cataract.
The only way to accomplish this is by having cataract surgery. Almost all cataract surgeries are successful. The reason for this? State-of-the-art advances in technology. Keep reading to learn about the differences between traditional methods of cataract surgery and laser cataract surgery!
Traditional Cataract Surgery is Not Outdated
Although what’s new and modern seems like the best choice, undergoing a traditional form of cataract surgery isn’t a bad thing. Traditional cataract surgery still incorporates technology that continues to be innovative and effective, like an incredibly sharp and precise blade to make incisions and a sound-emitting probe to break apart the lens where the cataract is located gently.
Traditional cataract surgery is still used in many parts of the world and is very effective.
Laser Cataract Surgery is Precise and Accurate
If you choose to undergo laser cataract surgery, the process is quite similar to traditional cataract surgery. Both surgeries are designed to safely remove the natural lens and replace it with an artificial one.
The only difference is the tools used to create the incision. Laser-assisted cataract surgery utilizes a femtosecond laser that is guided by 3D-mapping software. Before creating any incisions, a camera or ultrasound device captures the shape and topography of your cornea and tells the laser exactly where to make the opening.
After making the opening, a sound-emitting probe emulsifies the lens inside the eye. The probe is the same kind that’s used during traditional cataract surgery.
However, your cataract surgeon may choose to use a laser to soften the lens before continuing with the probe. In either case, suction is used to remove the pieces carefully.
Both laser cataract surgery and traditional methods also involve replacing the removed lens with an IOL, short for intraocular lens. This lens is selected before the procedure begins.
Patients can choose from many different kinds of IOLs. If you don’t mind wearing glasses after cataract surgery, you may choose a monofocal IOL, which only corrects vision at one distance.
If you’re looking for more freedom from glasses, a premium IOL can reduce your dependence on visual aids after cataract surgery. There are no stitches involved with both iterations of the cataract removal procedure. Instead, the incision will reattach on its own.
How the Results from Laser Cataract Surgery and Traditional Cataract Surgery Compare
The results from traditional and laser cataract surgery are similar. Both produce similar recovery times, and vision typically becomes clearer within a few weeks. There is no indication that one type of surgery produces more complications than the other.
However, there are substantial advantages over traditional cataract surgery. The most significant advantage is that laser cataract surgery is significantly faster than traditional methods of cataract surgery.
Your surgeon can create more precise incisions far more consistently. This simplifies cataract removal and makes the overall experience gentler, promoting peace of mind.
Are you wondering if laser cataract surgery may be right for you? Schedule a cataract consultation at Stahl Eyecare Experts in Garden City, NY, now!
