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Cataracts are an exceptionally common problem, especially as we age. Past age 60, many people find their vision becoming muted, distorted or blurred as cataracts form. Since our region is richly populated with folks who are living full and interesting lives into their 70s, 80s and 90s, there is a huge demand for cataract surgery here. Considering the options available, many wonder what makes laser-assisted cataract surgery different from traditional cataract surgery. Since it comes with a greater out-of-pocket expense, it’s natural to ask, is it worth it?
Laser vs. Traditional Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery involves removing the cataract-diseased lens and replacing it with a lens implant. In traditional cataract surgery, lens removal involves a manual incision with a scalpel, through which sound waves break apart the lens so it can be removed through gentle suction. In some cases, cataracts can stiffen the lens, making it more difficult to dissolve, increasing the chance of trauma to delicate endothelial cells of the cornea. A hardened lens may require a larger manual incision to remove. Surrounding the lens is a fragile membrane called the capsule. Damage to the surrounding capsule during traditional cataract surgery isn’t common, but when it occurs, it can lead to serious complications, including glaucoma.
With femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery, an advanced computerized mapping system creates clear calculations of the eye’s shape and surface, and provides direct guidance for optimal incision shape, placement and depth. Using this mapping technology, your surgeon makes a targeted, depth-controlled incision with a highly specialized laser, nearly eliminating the potential for damage to the capsule or corneal cells. The laser-assisted system incorporates ultrasound waves to soften the lens for smoother, easier removal, less chance of trauma and quicker visual recovery.
In addition, laser-assisted cataract surgery is able to provide correction of mild astigmatism and certain visual aberrations, and optimizes the benefits of lens implants designed to correct astigmatism. It creates an ideal environment to get the most out of today’s most advanced intraocular lens implants (IOLs), including those for near vision and extended range of vision. The laser’s accuracy enables more people to see clearly with no or minimal dependence on glasses than traditional cataract surgery. For state-of-the-art accuracy, safety, IOL optimization and astigmatism correction, there is simply no better choice than femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery.
Lake Eye’s Dr. Scott Wehrly was the first surgeon in Central Florida to perform laser-assisted cataract surgery. He has performed nearly 23,000 successful state-of-the-art cataract surgeries, and implanted thousands of Tecnis multifocal IOLs (including the Symfony® extended range of vision lens) and Toric® lenses to correct more serious astigmatism. Dr. Wehrly also performs combination cataract/glaucoma surgery. Dr. Wehrly joins Dr. Scot Holman and Dr. Vinay Gutti as local specialists in femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery, creating a highly experienced and dedicated team utilizing the most advanced technologies and procedures for unparalleled quality, safety and satisfaction.
If you’re considering cataract surgery, we invite you to contact us with your questions or to make an appointment for a consultation. With 40+ years of service to our community, Lake Eye is the area’s experienced and trusted partner for a lifetime of clear, healthy vision.
Lake Eye
352-775-1533 . LakeEye.com
