When considering any type surgery, it’s smart to weigh the possible complications against the potential benefits. Thankfully, cataract surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures in the world, and is recognized as being safe and effective. And laser-assisted cataract surgery offers more precision and less eye trauma, resulting in faster recovery and fewer complications. 

Procedure

Laser-assisted cataract surgery begins by using micro-imaging cameras to map the eye’s surface. The surgeon uses the resulting image to identify the best location for the necessary incision in the cornea, and directs the laser to make a tiny, precise cut at that point. A small probe inserted through the incision applies ultrasonic energy to break up the cataract-damaged lens and extracts the pieces. A second probe delivers and positions the artificial lens. Once that probe is removed, the incision self-seals. No stitches required.

Recovery

Following surgery, patients spend a short time in the recovery room while their eyes quickly adjust to the new lens. Many laser-assisted cataract surgery patients report improved vision before even leaving the recovery room. Typically after just 30-60 minutes, a patient is released to go home. Cataract surgeons generally recommend patients wear an eye shield off-and-on for up to a few days, and patients are often prescribed eye drops and a protective shield to help with any short-term blurriness or redness. Most surgeons ask patients to come into the office for a follow-up visit the day after surgery. The doctor then performs an examination to ensure everything is healing normally.

Outcomes

The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) reports an overall success rate of 98% or higher for the more than three million cataract surgeries performed in the U.S. each year. By replacing the damaged natural lens with an artificial lens, surgery provides a permanent fix for cataracts. 

Possible Complications

There may be some temporary blurring, cloudiness or redness immediately following cataract surgery, but those usually clear up within a few days. Some patients may also experience short-term grittiness, redness or irritation, halos, faint floaters and/or discharge. The risk of more serious side effects is less than 0.5%, making cataract surgery one of the safest procedures in the country.

If you or someone you love is considering cataract surgery, schedule an appointment with North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care. We offer state-of-the-art laser-assisted cataract surgery using the LenSx system. Our own Dr. Gregory Snodgrass has performed more than 20,000 cataract surgeries and was the area’s first surgeon to use the revolutionary LenSx system. 

Contact North Florida Cataract Specialists and Vision Care today at 352-373-4300.