Femto laser cataract surgery is a procedure that uses advanced technology to remove cataracts softly and accurately. Special lasers make precise incisions in the cornea and lens to break up the cataract. This technique aims to reduce astigmatism of the eye and optimize the clarity of your vision during cataract surgery.
Symptoms of cataracts
More than 20.5 million Americans over 40 years old deal with cataracts. If you are experiencing any of the following symptoms your doctor may recommend Femto Laser Cataract Surgery:
- Having cloudy or blurry vision
- Having a difficult time seeing at night
- Seeing double
- You have to change the prescription for your glasses or contact lenses frequently
- Colors appearing faded or distant
- Using a brighter light to read, see the tv or laptop
- Experiencing sensitivity to light
- Seeing halos around lights
Advantages of Femto Laser Cataract Surgery
While this procedure may be daunting it actually is a safe alternative to the traditional blade used in removing cataracts.
There are a few advantages which include:
Safer Capsulotomy
Capsulotomy refers to the thin and dainty membrane that captures the eyes clouded lenses. To have a good chance of spectacle-free vision it must be performed accurately. Before laser procedures were introduced a surgeon had to manually remove the capsule. This led to a higher risk of complications. Once computer-guided lasers were available surgeons were able to cut perfectly circular openings reducing the risk of breakage.
Softer breakdown of the clouded lens
Cataracts refer to clouding of the natural lens. Sound waves are used to break our lens into smaller pieces. If a cataract is quite dense than more ultrasound energy is required. This can cause damage to the endothelial cells. With femtolaser cataract surgery the laser pre-softens the lens meaning less ultrasound is necessary. This results in less damage, a smoother procedure and a faster recovery period.
Accurate Incisions
Typically a blade is used to make incisions which leads more room for error. With a femtolaser the exact area, width and dimensions are mapped out improving your vision.
Astigmatism adjustments
Astigmatism refers to the cornea developing the shape of a football rather than being round. Throughout the procedure a laser is used in the peripheral cornea to fix the shape.
What to Expect Before, During & After Femto Laser Cataract Surgery
Before
Your doctor will perform an ultrasound test measuring the size and shape of your eye. This will decide the IOL, type of lens implant, suited for your eye during your procedure.
During
If you have cataracts surgery, you will be awake through the whole procedure. Sedation or local anesthesia may be offered to provide comfort. While the procedure is only a few minutes the whole process (before, and during) spans around an hour. If you are experiencing cataracts in both eyes your surgeon will most likely perform separate surgeries.
After
Most patients recover from cataract surgery with little to no complications. You will wear an eye shield for a few hours after surgery and when you sleep for a few days. It will take some time for your vision to properly adjust so do not be concerned if you are not seeing perfectly acute immediately after the procedure.
If you think Femto Laser Cataract Surgery may be right for you, contact our office or call 516-785-3900 (Wantagh office) or 516-541-4141 (Massapequa office) to schedule an appointment.
