This method results in better healing and fewer complications than traditional cataract surgery, which uses a scalpel.
The procedure is safe and effective, though it’s not without any risks.
What Is Laser Cataract Surgery?
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Steps in the procedure include:
Incision, cataract fragmentation, and capsulotomy are done with a laser gear.
Insertion of the new lens is done manually.
Laser cataract surgery is performed by anophthalmologist (eye surgeon).
These issues may be the result of a previous corneal orglaucoma surgery.
Potential Risks
There are some risks associated with any cataract surgery.
Adverse effects of surgery include bleeding, swelling, infection, or damage to the eye.
Vision can be permanently affected if these complications are not effectively and promptly treated.
Sometimes, a secondary cataract can develop several months after cataract surgery, potentially requiring treatment.
Some use the wordscloudy,foggy,blurry, orhazyto characterize their vision.
Removing a cataract and replacing it with an artificial lens can improve lost vision clarity.
Cataracts are diagnosedwith an eye examination.
The decision to have a laser cataract surgery instead of traditional cataract surgery is based on several factors.
You will have blood tests, including acomplete blood count (CBC)andblood chemistry tests.
You will also have a chest X-ray and anelectrocardiogram (EKG)as part of your pre-surgical testing.
Location
Your laser cataract surgery will be done in an operating room or a procedural suite.
You will go to your appointment from home and can go home on the same day as your surgery.
What to Wear
you’re able to wear anything comfortable to your surgery appointment.
Be sure to have your hair pinned away from your eyes.
Do not apply cream or makeup to the face the day of the procedure.
Be sure to listen to the surgery center’s instructions on eating and drinking prior to surgery.
Sometimes, you might need to adjust other medications that you take as well.
Bring someone along who can drive you home after your surgery.
What to Expect on the Day of Surgery
Cataract surgery itself takes about 20 minutes.
When you arrive at your appointment, you will register and sign a consent form.
You will have an IV line placed in your arm or hand or be given an oral medication.
Your ophthalmologist and your anesthesiologist might see you before your surgery.
You might fall asleep.
Your face will be covered with a surgical drape.
The area around your eye may be cleansed, and you may have antibiotic drops placed in your eye.
During the Surgery
You will have your laser cataract surgery with your eye open.
A small retractor will be placed around your eye to keep it that way during the procedure.
Your ophthalmologist will make a small incision in the periphery of your cornea with the laser.
Any IV anesthesia will be stopped and you will go to a recovery area.
After the Surgery
In recovery, you may receive pain medication as necessary.
Your nurses will double-check you are comfortable and can walk and eat without difficulty.
Prescription antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops are generally given after surgery to assist with healing.
You will have an appointment to see your healthcare provider within a week.
You will see your healthcare provider again a few months later.
You should be fully recovered after about three months.
Healing
you should probably protect your eyes for several weeks after surgery while healing takes place.
Don’t get water or chemicals (e.g., hairspray, house cleaners) in your eyes.
Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from sunlight and from bright indoor light.
You may see bright lights or halos around your field of vision as you are healing.
Your eyes may feel dry or gritty.
you could use artificial tears for comfort according to your healthcare provider’s instructions.
Coping With Recovery
As you are recovering, you may experience a gradual stabilization of your vision.
This happens as the lens capsule shrinks to hold the new lens in place.
Long-Term Care
You should expect to experience substantial improvement in your vision.
Typically, about six months after surgery, your vision should be stable.
You may still need to wear glasses even after your surgery.
But for most people, the calculated power of the new lens implant can decrease the need for glasses.
Sometimes astigmatism will arise, causing reduced vision after surgery.
You may need to wear glasses to correct this vision problem.
If that happens, you would have to discuss your treatment options with your healthcare provider.
A Word From Verywell
Laser cataract surgery is a method of cataract surgery.
It is considered as safe as traditional cataract surgery, and there may also be some clinical advantages.
But this approach isn’t for everyone, and your health insurance may not cover it.
You and your healthcare provider can discuss the best treatment approach in your situation.
American Academy of Opthalmology.Traditional cataract surgery vs. laser-assisted cataract surgery.
Dick HB, Conrad-Hengerer I, Schultz T.Intraindividual capsular bag shrinkage comparing standard and laser-assisted cataract surgery.J Refract Surg.
2014;30(4):228-233. doi:10.3928/1081597X-20140320-01
Harvard Health Publishing.Are you at risk for a secondary cataract?
