Traditional Cataract Surgery
Traditional cataract surgery is a good technique. With traditional cataract surgery, our surgeons position a probe, using sound wave technology, within the eye to break up the cataract into micro-fragments. The debris is then suctioned out of the eye. Once removed an intraocular lens is then positioned in the eye. Traditional cataract surgery is still very effective but it is a more manual, hands on technique.
Laser Cataract Surgery
With laser surgery, we are using a form of energy that is extraordinarily precise. We can target treatment down to the millionth of a meter. During the procedure, using a sophisticated imaging system in real time, our surgeons measure the exact thickness of the cataract and its exact depth within the eye. Our surgeons then program the laser and deliver treatment to the eye, creating the openings and breaking up the cataract into micro-fragments. The patient is then taken to the operating room to remove the debris and then position the new intraocular lens.
The femtosecond LenSx laser reduces the energy, fluid and time used during cataract surgery and, with less manipulation of the eye, results in a gentler procedure. The laser creates perfectly centered and precisely shaped lens opening for accurate intraocular lens positioning, which allows the surgeon to correct a wide range of vision problems, including astigmatism.