Laser Cataract Surgery
Advanced, bladeless cataract surgery for unparalleled precision and customized results.
The LenSx® Laser from Alcon is the first femtosecond laser to receive FDA approval for use in cataract surgery.
The LenSx Laser offers three-dimensional, high resolution images that map the unique eyes of each patient. These images, combined with the computer-captured measurements and information about the eyes, allow the surgeon to achieve greater accuracy, precision and customization than ever before.
The LenSx Laser is optimized with true image guidance, helping the surgeon determine the best location and dimensions for incisions. The bladeless femtosecond laser pulses to create incisions in the lens capsule, crystalline lens and cornea with a high level of accuracy. The LenSx Laser is an effective technological advancement that ensures the highest level of precision throughout every step of the cataract surgical procedure.
The Laser Cataract Surgery Procedure
What can you expect during your femto-laser cataract procedure? First, you will have a preoperative examination where your eyes will be measured so that your doctor can select the proper artificial lens for you by measuring the length of the eye from front to back. This procedure is absolutely painless, doesn’t touch your eye and will ensure that you get the perfect lens. Next, the information gathered will be programed into the femtosecond laser device device so that the surgery is customized to your exact eye anatomy. Before your surgery, you will be led to a comfortable surgical bed where you will lie down. Your surgical team will disinfect and dress the area around your eye in a sterile fashion. Drops will be put in the eye so that you will not feel any pain during the procedure. Once your eye is anaesthetized, a liquidfilled ring which centers the laser beam path is placed on your eye with a light vacuum so that the laser will be in the perfect position during surgery.
Once the laser has been programmed and started, it’s job will be complete in less than one minute. During your treatment, the surgeon will be by your side and supervise every step of the operation. The integrated OCT system enables the surgeon a clear visualization of the eye’s surfaces – before, during and after the procedure. The laser will divide your clouded lens into fragments, like that of a pie, which will then be removed from the eye through a tiny tube that is only a few millimeters wide. A perfectly circular opening is then made in the lens capsule in order to insert the new artificial lens. The laser performs this step with ultimate precision which is important as the final outcome of the surgery depends upon the precise placement of the artificial lens. Next, the laser creates tiny tubes from the outside of the eye to the lens capsule. The femtosecond laser creates tunnels so small and precise that they do not need sutures and will close on their own, thus preventing infection. Lastly, the fragmented cloudy lens is aspirated via the tunnel and an artificial lens is inserted in its place.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is cataract surgery better with laser?
Laser cataract surgery, like the LenSx® procedure at Cali Eye, allows for a higher level of precision and customization than traditional cataract surgery. The bladeless femtosecond laser creates highly accurate incisions and fragments the lens with extreme precision, which can improve outcomes and the positioning of your artificial lens.
What is laser cataract surgery?
Laser cataract surgery uses the LenSx® femtosecond laser to perform key steps of the procedure, including creating incisions, fragmenting the clouded lens, and opening the lens capsule. This technology is guided by 3D imaging, ensuring a tailored, precise, and efficient surgery.
How is laser cataract surgery performed at Cali Eye?
During the procedure, your eyes are first measured to select the best artificial lens. A liquid-filled ring centers the laser beam, and the femtosecond laser completes most steps in less than a minute. The surgeon supervises every step while the clouded lens is fragmented and removed, and the new lens is inserted through tiny self-sealing incisions.
How painful is laser cataract surgery?
Laser cataract surgery is virtually painless. Numbing eye drops are applied before the procedure, and the laser does not physically touch the eye. Patients generally report a comfortable experience throughout the surgery.
What is the success rate of laser cataract surgery?
Laser cataract surgery has a high success rate, comparable to or exceeding traditional cataract surgery, especially in terms of precision and accurate lens placement, which can improve visual outcomes.
Who is not suitable for laser cataract surgery?
Not every patient is a candidate. Those with certain eye conditions, such as extreme corneal irregularities, severe cataracts, or other ocular diseases, may not be suitable. Your surgeon at Cali Eye will evaluate your eyes during a preoperative examination to determine the best approach.
What is the best age for laser eye surgery?
Laser cataract surgery is typically performed when cataracts affect vision and quality of life, often in patients over 60. The procedure is safe for adults of varying ages, depending on their eye health and needs.
What is the recovery time after laser cataract surgery?
Most patients notice improved vision within a few days, though complete healing may take a few weeks. Your doctor will provide post-operative care instructions to ensure optimal recovery and prevent complications.
Are the incisions from laser cataract surgery different from traditional surgery?
Yes. The femtosecond laser creates tiny, precise incisions that usually do not require sutures. These self-sealing incisions reduce the risk of infection and promote faster healing.
How is the artificial lens positioned during laser cataract surgery?
The laser creates a perfectly circular opening in the lens capsule, allowing precise placement of the artificial intraocular lens. Accurate lens positioning is critical for optimal vision outcomes, and the LenSx® Laser ensures this with advanced imaging and guidance.
What Our Patients Are Saying:
We Are Members of:
