Traditional Cataract Surgery in Los Angeles, CA

Viewed as both incredibly safe and exceedingly reliable, traditional cataract surgery, referred to as phacoemulsification, is among the most commonly performed surgeries worldwide. Our skilled staff of ophthalmologists at Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley are accomplished in both traditional and laser cataract surgery. We can help you determine which treatment is best for you by providing comprehensive exams. The only major difference between traditional and laser cataract surgery is that the traditional surgery is performed using handheld surgical devices, whereas the laser method is principally performed utilizing state-of-the-art laser technology. Set up an exam with one of our expert ophthalmologists at our office in San Fernando Valley of Los Angeles, CA to learn more about traditional cataract surgery. For your convenience, we have two locations within Los Angeles, our Encino and West Hills offices. We would love to talk with you about your possibilities for treatment.

Typically, most individuals with cataracts are great candidates for traditional cataract surgery, provided they have good, overall physical health. Some types of astigmatism could reduce the chances of the best results, which might impact the quality of vision after cataract surgery if not corrected by a special toric lens implant. However, depending on your astigmatism, we recommend toric lens implants so you could receive traditional cataract surgery and have your astigmatism reduced at the same time. Also, some preexisting eye disorders, like a detached retina or macular degeneration, could impact an individual's candidacy for cataract surgery. Occasionally, cataract surgery is deemed an elective surgery or not a medically necessary procedure, based on the severity of vision impairment, lack of impact on daily activities and other factors. At Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley, we perform a detailed assessment of each patient’s cataracts and discuss previous health concerns to determine if traditional cataract surgery is the best treatment option.

Cataract Surgery can help a number of our Los Angeles, CA patients who are interested in:

• Improved ease of everyday tasks thanks to restored vision
• A quick, simple procedure that is largely safe and effective
• Protection of your eye health for preventing future eye problems
• Potential to reduce the number of eye-assisting devices you need

Our group performs traditional cataract surgery as an outpatient treatment that typically lasts about 15 minutes per eye. Just like in laser cataract surgery, you are conscious but fully numbed before the surgery to ensure total comfort. Most patients are genuinely surprised at how brief and comfortable the surgery is.

Once the patient is ready, we use an instrument to stabilize the eye. Then, we manually create a 2.4 mm incision at the rim of the cornea. After we have made the incision, we utilize a specialized device tool to access the lens. This device breaks apart the clouded lens with ultrasonic waves, and we can gently remove and replace the old lens with a new artificial one. The opening is extremely small so it doesn't require sutures.

Once the surgery is complete, every patient is given thorough post-surgery instructions to follow, which assist with optimal healing and results. These instructions may include information about timing and dosage for any prescription eye drops, wearing eye covers if needed, sleeping without putting pressure on the eyes, and taking a break from strenuous activities. Following your procedure and after thorough monitoring, we always speak with you or your family before sending you home to recuperate. Typically, you may experience blurry vision for an hour or so after the procedure. However, this should subside once the eyes and brain get used to the new lens. It is also common for the occasional patient to have red or bloodshot eyes for about a week, and some patients may rarely develop some bruising that looks like a black eye.

All of our cataract surgery patients are required to return to Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley the day after their surgery for their first follow-up appointment, as well as for additional visits that are scheduled according to each patient’s healing progress.

Is traditional cataract surgery safe?

Yes. Traditional cataract surgery is considered to be incredibly safe and effective. Our staff at Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley have countless years of experience performing this procedure in order to successfully treat our patients.

What is the difference between traditional cataract surgery and laser cataract surgery?

While both methods of cataract surgery are very effective, their difference lies in the technology used in order to perform the procedure. Though traditional cataract surgery utilizes a vibrating needle and a small blade to break the cataract, laser cataract surgery uses advanced laser instruments. During your consultation, our staff will recommend which method they believe to be best based on your situation.

How long does it take to recover from traditional cataract surgery?

In general, most patients are able to return to their normal daily schedule within about 1 – 3 days. After this time, there will likely still be some light aftercare to keep in mind, but you can go about your day as usual for the most part.

If you suffer from cataracts, you now have a range of innovative technology, incision techniques, and research that can help you manage the condition and restore your vision. Traditional cataract surgery is an excellent solution that can create optimal results for many patients. We will help you determine if traditional cataract surgery or laser-assisted surgery is best for you. Please call Ophthalmology Associates of the Valley at our offices in Encino and West Hills, to receive additional information and schedule a consultation.