Even though cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful surgeries in medicine today, the addition of laser-assisted cataract surgery with computer-guided technology offers an even higher level of precision to cataract surgery.
The Eye Associates is pleased to offer Bladeless Laser Cataract Surgery with Alcon’s LenSx® laser. The LenSx laser brings a new level of pinpoint accuracy to cataract surgery. You can relax knowing that key steps of your cataract surgery are performed without blades and with unsurpassed precision!
| Traditional Surgery | Bladeless Laser Surgery |
|---|---|
| Surgeon manually makes the corneal incisions with a blade | The LenSx® laser makes the incisions |
| Surgeon manually makes an opening in the front of the lens’ capsule to gain access to the cataract | The LenSx® laser makes the opening |
| Surgeon divides the cataract manually with an ultrasonic probe | The LenSx® laser divides the cataract |
| Surgeon removes the cataract with an ultrasonic probe and suction with the Infiniti Vision System | Surgeon removes the cataract with an ultrasonic probe and suction with the Infiniti Vision System |
| Intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted by the surgeon | Intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted by the surgeon |
In this video, Dr. Cathleen McCabe explains the difference between traditional and bladeless laser cataract surgery.
The LenSx Laser’s advanced imaging system provides surgeons with a series of 3-dimensional, cross-sectional images of all of the parts of the eye related to cataract surgery. It has high-tech software that carefully maps and measures your eye. This is important because these high resolution images are then used to plan and perform the laser surgery to exacting specifications generally not attainable with traditional surgery.
The laser also breaks up the cataract, and creates a circular opening in the lens capsule, making the exact placement of the new intraocular lens incredibly precise. This is very important, particularly for Intraocular Lens Implants where maximizing your independence from glasses is the goal. And the LenSx Laser can even correct astigmatism.
If you think you might need cataract surgery, the first step is to have a comprehensive eye examination. Your doctor will be able to determine if a cataract is the cause of your decreased vision. If it is, and if it is inhibiting your quality of life and the activities that bring you joy, then our surgeons can help you determine which cataract surgery option is best for your eyes and lifestyle.
The laser provides a more precise circular incision in the capsule, thereby improving the accuracy of the placement of the intraocular lens implant. This can lead to a greater likelihood of clearer vision.
The laser pre-softens the cataract, allowing surgeons to minimize the use of ultrasound energy to remove the cataract lens. Decreased usage of ultrasound energy reduces the chances of thermal injury to tissues inside the eye which lessens recovery time.
Astigmatism correction can be done with the laser at the time of cataract surgery. Patients with astigmatism are usually required to wear glasses after cataract surgery, if it has not been corrected with the LenSx laser or if they do not get a toric lens implant.
The LenSx laser is the most technologically advanced option for Bladeless Laser cataract patients. It is no wonder that it is used worldwide for more cataract surgeries than any other femtosecond laser.
If reduced vision criteria is met and if your yearly deductible has been met, Medicare pays 80% of a traditional cataract surgery.
The LenSx® laser is a premium enhanced upgrade not covered by Medicare and other insurances, and will require an additional out-of-pocket fee from the patient. We always supply patients with specific information on the cost of their procedure before the surgery during the surgery counseling process.
The Eye Associates wants to provide the highest quality of care. We offer financing through CareCredit with approved credit. Learn more. (link to financing page)
NOTE: Individuals must check with their respective carriers for their specific eligibility and coverage benefits.
The first step to find out if you need cataract surgery is a comprehensive eye exam with one of our Board Certified Physicians at The Eye Associates.
The Eye Associates has always been a leading innovator in cataract surgery and we pride ourselves on having the most surgically advanced cataract surgery technology, like the LenSx Laser. And when you combine the LenSx with our seasoned surgical team, it translates to greater precision and outstanding outcomes for our patients.
