Three Signs You Could Benefit from Femtosecond Laser Cataract Surgery
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Both traditional and laser cataract surgeries are still used today, leading many patients to ask which type of cataract surgery is most appropriate for them. Because there are a variety of complexities that can be associated with cataracts and eye health overall, the first step in understanding which method of cataract treatment is right for you is to schedule a consultation and evaluation with a highly qualified ophthalmologist.
At Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley, our team of Los Angeles, CA ophthalmologists specialize in treating even the most complex eye conditions and cataract cases, offering traditional cataract surgery and cataract correction with the advanced VICTUS femtosecond laser system. Some indications for laser cataract surgery vs. traditional surgery include dense cataracts and poor endothelial cell quality, among others. Again, however, consulting with an experienced provider is one of the best ways to determine whether you're a candidate for femtosecond laser cataract surgery.
How is cataract surgery performed?
Each cataract surgery performed by our team is personalized based on a number of factors, including:
- The nature and severity of the patient's cataracts
- The shape of their eyes
- Any other ocular conditions they may have
In both types of cataract surgery — laser and traditional — the clouded lens of the eye is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clearer vision. Both techniques are minimally invasive and allow patients to go home the same day. The primary difference between laser vs. traditional cataract surgery is the use of laser energy to break up cataracts and reduce astigmatism. This approach first maps the eye for targeted precision prior to the cataract being disintegrated by the VICTUS femtosecond laser. After this, one of our eye surgeons will carefully place the IOL.
Who is a candidate for laser cataract surgery?
Because the recovery after laser cataract surgery and traditional surgery are similar, and because many patients qualify for both, people often wonder when femtosecond laser surgery is recommended and why. Again, cataract surgery is highly customized based on the patient's unique case, but these three signs may indicate that you could benefit from femtosecond laser cataract surgery:
1. Extremely dense cataracts
For patients with very dense cataracts, femtosecond laser cataract surgery can be advantageous, as it requires less phacoemulsification energy compared to traditional methods. This reduces the risk of complications associated with high ultrasound energy levels.
2. Fuchs' dystrophy
Patients with Fuchs' dystrophy, a condition characterized by poor corneal endothelial cells, may benefit from femtosecond laser cataract surgery due to its gentle approach. The laser reduces trauma to the corneal endothelium, preserving the remaining healthy cells.
3. Improved centering of premium lens implants
For patients receiving special premium lens implants, femtosecond laser cataract surgery can provide more accurate centering. The precision of the laser aids in better placement and alignment of these lenses, leading to improved visual outcomes.
If any of these three indications apply to you, or if you have additional questions about whether you may qualify for laser cataract surgery, don't hesitate to call our friendly team to learn more.
Restore clear vision and regain your independence with laser cataract surgery in Los Angeles, CA
Whether you have astigmatism along with your cataracts, have highly complex or dense cataracts, or have another condition that is suitable for treatment with laser cataract surgery, our team of ophthalmologists is here to help. To learn more about our comprehensive offerings for both traditional and laser cataract correction near Los Angeles, call Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley to schedule your cataract surgery consultation today.