Frequently Asked Questions About Bladeless Cataract Surgery

Patients can receive effective results from traditional cataract surgery, but bladeless cataract surgery produces successful results with greater predictability. This procedure offers advanced efficiency with increased safety. Below are some of the frequently asked questions about bladeless cataract surgery.

What Is a Cataract?

A cataract is the clouding that develops on the clear lens of your eye. Eyes without a cataract give a clear view as it allows light to pass through the eye lens and focus at a point. Cataracts blur your vision as they distort light.

Cataracts develop when protein builds up in the clear lens of your eye, making it foggy and cloudy. You will not notice its development until it inhibits your ability to do your daily activities. Some people develop cataracts after they turn 50. You may notice:

• Contact lenses’ or eyeglasses’ inability to work as they should.
• Cloudy or blurry vision.
• Changes in color perception.
• Nearsightedness in older individuals.
• Difficulty driving at night.
• Sensitivity to glare.
• Double vision in the eye with a cataract.

What Is Bladeless Cataract Surgery?

Bladeless cataract surgery uses LenSx® Laser to make computer-controlled incisions on your corneal. It gently breaks up the cataract using a real-time three-dimensional image of your eye. Your doctor will place a new intraocular lens (IOL) in the same way as traditional cataract surgery.

Is Bladeless Cataract Surgery Safe?

Bladeless cataract surgery is safe. It does not require your eye doctor handling blades to work on your cornea. The laser used allows your ophthalmologist to be more precise during the procedure. Doing so protects you from the risk of injury.

The procedure guides the surgeon with an image-guided control. It enables your doctor to plan and customize your surgery according to the unique characteristics of your eye.

Bladeless cataract surgery suits most people. But it is not ideal for those suffering from cornea disease or glaucoma. It also does not work for individuals who cannot tolerate the suction your doctor uses to stabilize your eye or those with poorly dilated pupils.

Why Use Bladeless Cataract Surgery?

There are many reasons why surgeons prefer using bladeless cataract surgery:

• Bladeless cataract surgery allows surgeons to be more precise, giving you better results.
• The results are more predictable.
• The recovery time is more effective.
• Increased safety.

What Is the Recovery Time for Bladeless Cataract Surgery?

Most patients see vision improvements after the procedure. But it is normal to have blurry vision for one or two days, as your eyes will remain dilated. You may manage to drive within the first week after surgery, but it is essential to wait for your doctor to allow you to get behind the wheel.
 

You will have to go for follow-up appointments weeks after your surgery. Ensure you follow your doctor’s recommendations and make a point not to miss your appointments. Protect your eyes against water and chemicals weeks after your surgery. Also, wear your sunglasses to protect your eyes from sunlight or bright light. Your eyes may feel dry and gritty during the recovery time. But healing and recovery usually take a few weeks. 

For more on bladeless cataract surgery, visit Raleigh Eye Center at our offices in Raleigh, Durham, Reidsville, North Carolina, or South Hill, Virginia. You can also call (919) 876-2427 to book an appointment today.