Difference Between Conventional and Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery

Cataracts are one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide. Consequently, millions of Americans undergo cataract surgery yearly. Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most common surgical procedures performed today. 

 

The methodology and technology applied during this procedure continue to improve with time. Are you planning to undergo cataract surgery? If you are, you need to understand that you have two options to choose from. These are:

 

• Conventional cataract surgery
   

• Laser-assisted cataract surgery

If you are planning to have this type of procedure, you need to learn more about both options. If you are having a difficult time making a choice, consult your eye doctor. He/she will recommend the best option for you. 

 

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s lens, which should be clear. They often develop slowly over time and cause various problems such as blurry vision. Fortunately, it is possible to surgically remove them through an outpatient procedure. Doing so should restore your vision.

 

To see clearly, your eyes must have light pass through a clear lens. However, your eye’s lens is behind the iris. The lens should focus on the light that passes through it for the eye and brain to process the information perceived in an image. 

Cataracts tend to cloud over the lens, preventing the eye from focusing the light properly. Consequently, vision problems develop. However, your eyesight will change depending on the size and location of the cataract. 

Causes

Your eye’s lens mostly consists of proteins and water. Over time, the proteins in the lens may break down and hang around in your eye, making your eyesight somewhat cloudy. Though unpleasant and annoying, this is often a typical part of aging. However, certain factors can speed up the development of cataracts. These include:

 

• Certain medications
   

• Steroids
   

• Diabetes
   

• UV light
   

• Radiation treatment
  
   

Treatment

If you are experiencing mild symptoms of cataracts, you might just require a new prescription for eyeglasses or contact lenses. But if your condition is severe, your eye doctor will recommend cataract-removal surgery.

 

Conventional Cataract Surgery

This type of surgical procedure involves making a tiny incision on the cornea’s side to remove the clouded lens. Your eye doctor will use a specialized laser to break up the cataract. Afterward, the doctor will insert an intraocular lens to replace your natural one. The incision made will heal without the need for sutures. 

 

The main difference between this type of procedure and the more modern laser-assisted cataract surgery is the technology used. Essentially, traditional/conventional cataract surgery involves the use of hand-held instruments such as forceps and blades to make an incision and remove the lens. 

 

Laser-assisted Cataract Surgery

Laser-assisted cataract surgery is a modern procedure. It combines laser technology and 3D imaging to allow for increased precision. First, your eye surgeon will use 3D imaging to make a customized surgical plan for your eye.

 

The procedure will involve using a femtosecond laser to open the front part of the lens. Your eye surgeon will then suction out your lens through tiny corneal incisions before replacing it with an intraocular lens. 

 

Bottom Line

Both procedures provide the same results. However, the main differences are the method and tools used. However, laser-assisted cataract surgery enhances the precision through the tools used to perform the procedure.

To learn more about types of cataract surgery and which may be right for you, contact Quality Eye Care at our offices in Jacksonville or Gainesville, Florida. You can call (904) 601-1300 today to schedule an appointment.