Cataracts are cloudy areas in the lens of the eye that can cause changes in vision. Symptoms of cataracts include cloudy or fuzzy vision as well as sensitivity to glare.
Our board certified cataract surgeons use the most advanced technology to restore vision for patients with cataracts.
The standard surgical treatment for cataracts is to remove the cloudy crystalline lens and replace it with an intraocular lens implant. This will restore vision. When used with a conventional lens (monofocal), many patients continue to use glasses in their day to day lives.
New advances are offered to patients who choose to have their cataract surgery done here at Microsurgical Eye Consultants. We offer the opportunity to our patients to choose an implanted lens option (often described as “accommodating IOL’s” or “Multi-focal IOL’s”) that can provide the vision to your day to day tasks with reduced need for glasses. Along with these lens options, our cataract surgeons use state of the art technology to perform the surgery. The latest technology uses a Femtosecond laser as well as other highly technical processes to customize the procedure for each individual patient for optimum results.
Our surgeons are dedicated to providing their patients a thorough explanation of their options for surgery, being mindful of each patient’s needs and desires, and giving them the most advanced opportunities for success.
Traditional vs. Laser Cataract Surgery
There is traditional cataract surgery and there is the new, bladeless laser cataract surgery available to remove a cataract. Dr. Orenberg and Dr. Rodman perform both procedures; depending on what you and your surgeon decide as the best option for you.
Traditional Cataract Surgery
In traditional cataract surgery, Dr. Orenberg and Dr. Rodman make tiny incisions in your eye with a surgical blade rather than using the laser. The procedure involves removing the natural lens in your eye, which the cataract has made cloudy. Your lens is then replaced by a new one, known as an intraocular lens (IOL). It is an outpatient procedure and the whole surgery lasts less than 30 minutes. This standard procedure is a covered benefit under most insurance carriers. You may have a deductible to meet, however the procedure is medically necessary.
Laser Cataract Surgery
Using the Femtosecond laser, Dr. Orenberg and Dr. Rodman are able to offer bladeless laser cataract surgery that allows for a more precise circular incision around the cataract, improving the accuracy of placing the Intraocular Lens implant. This leads to a greater likelihood of clearer vision. Astigmatism and Presbyopia correction can be done at the time of cataract surgery using this laser. Correcting this at the time of cataract surgery lessens the need for glasses or contact lenses. The presbyopia or astigmatism correcting IOLs along with use of the laser, are an out of pocket expense that is paid by the patient.
The medically necessary portion of removing the cataract will be covered in the same way a traditional cataract removal would be. Recent advances in Intraocular Lens options will be discussed with you if choosing Laser Cataract Surgery. This option for patients opens a whole new world for patients with cataracts.