Laser Cataract Surgery in Lake Worth, FL

At Palm Beach Eye Center, we offer the most comprehensive diagnostic techniques and treatment methods for cataracts, such as eye cataract treatment in Lake Worth, FL. Caused by aging and the eye's natural proteins clumping together, cataracts generally start to form after 40 years of age. Because cataracts cause cloudy vision, we need to remove the lens and replace it with an intraocular lens (IOL). These steps help eliminate uncomfortable cataract symptoms and improve your vision. During the procedure, laser cataract surgery uses advanced technology to digitally diagram the surface of the eye, which creates a more delicate, bladeless incision while significantly reducing the risk of infection. For cataract patients who also have refractive errors, such as myopia, hyperopia, and presbyopia, we can implant artificial lenses or IOLs to improve their visual acuity. These custom intraocular lenses not only free the patient from cataracts but also stop their dependency on traditional prescription eyeglasses or contact lenses.

Please schedule a consultation with one of our expert Lake Worth, FL, eye doctors to learn if you qualify for laser cataract surgery.

If you're still undecided on whether you should undergo laser cataract surgery, it is important to consider the benefits. One of the main benefits of the surgery is the recovery time. The laser system works quickly, making the recovery time somewhere around a week or two. It is also possible, in some instances, that you see an instant improvement in your vision. This is quicker than traditional methods to fix cataracts in Lake Worth, FL.

Additionally, with laser cataract surgery, the eye doctor is able to paint a precise picture of your eye (and the cataract that needs to be fixed). The exact nature provides an added level of accuracy — so no other part of the eye is affected. This also makes the surgery safer, in some cases, than the traditional methods. If you also have astigmatis,m it is likely you can have this problem corrected at the same time as your laser cataract surgery.

Any individual who has significant cataracts is a potential candidate as long as he or she is otherwise in general good physical health. However, while laser cataract surgery is remarkably effective, the procedure does have some restrictions. For example, candidates with some types of astigmatism sometimes aren't eligible, or they could need to undergo corneal surgery to address the astigmatism before or during both laser and traditional versions of cataract surgery. Another limitation is that people who have had LASIK previously aren’t generally candidates because the cataract laser technology can potentially affect the flap made during the LASIK surgery. As part of an assessment at Palm Beach Eye Center, your laser cataract surgeon in Delray Beach, FL can explain any probable issues and the effective treatment options.

Generally, anyone with advanced cataracts is a possible candidate, assuming they have good health. Although laser for cataract removal is extremely effective, the procedure does have some limitations. These limitations include patients with certain kinds of astigmatism or those who have undergone LASIK. Our team can provide details about candidacy during your consultation and create a treatment plan that addresses the issue.

Taking about half an hour to complete, you will receive drops that numb the eyes and ensure comfort. Next, an eye speculum is placed to hold the eyes open and keep them from moving. Laser cataract surgery with femtosecond laser follows the same steps as traditional cataract surgery, except it uses high-quality, 3D digital mapping of the eye and laser-assisted technology to determine the best incision site, create the incision, and disintegrate the cataract. Once removed and if needed, we place a premium IOL to address nearsightedness or farsightedness. Following your procedure, you will require about 4 – 8 weeks of recovery, but this will vary from patient to patient. We provide detailed aftercare instructions for proper healing, including attending all follow-up appointments, wearing an eye patch, using prescribed eye drops, and avoiding rubbing the eyes. You may have blurry vision for 5 – 7 days until the post-surgery swelling goes down.

Laser cataract surgery recovery will take approximately 4 – 8 weeks, but the exact length will vary from patient to patient. It is normal to experience blurry vision for 5 – 7 days after your procedure. Once the swelling subsides, your vision should return to normal. We recommend avoiding putting any pressure on your eyes or rubbing them. Your ophthalmologist will likely recommend eye drops to promote healing. Our team will provide you with detailed aftercare instructions for optimal healing, including attending all follow-up appointments and wearing an eye patch.

Does laser cataract surgery hurt?
Our medical professionals do everything possible to ensure that you feel no pain during your procedure. Numbing eye drops will be applied to the surface of your eye before your treatment so that you don't feel anything. Once the drops wear off, you may feel minor discomfort. Talk to our physicians if you have any questions about the process.

What is the recovery time for cataract laser surgery?
Although recovery time for cataract surgery will vary based on the patient, the typical recovery takes around 4 – 8 weeks. You may have to wear an eye patch, use eye drops, or both following your procedure. Talk to our team to learn more about your specific post-surgery instructions.

Are you awake during surgery?
Yes, you are usually awake during the surgery. If the idea of being awake during the treatment is concerning, talk to our team so that we can offer sedation medications to help you feel at ease and totally comfortable.

Can you watch TV or read following your procedure?
Eye strain is a huge possibility after your surgery, which can affect the healing process. Your eyes will be extremely sensitive, which is why we suggest refraining from watching TV or reading for at least 24 hours.

Does laser cataract surgery improve night vision?
Yes, laser cataract surgery often improves night vision by removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens. This allows more light to reach the retina, reducing glare and halos around lights, which are common issues with cataracts. Your ophthalmologist will discuss how the procedure can specifically enhance your vision in low-light conditions.

Can cataracts come back after surgery?
No, cataracts do not return after surgery because the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. However, some patients may develop a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO), which can cause vision to become cloudy again. PCO is treatable with a quick, painless laser procedure known as a YAG capsulotomy.

If ignored, cataracts can drastically impact your daily activities and eventually cause complete loss of vision. Thankfully, with the help of laser cataract surgery at Palm Beach Eye Center, you can become cataract-free and regain your eyesight. We urge those who have cataracts to visit our Lake Worth, FL practice soon for an appointment with one of our excellent South Florida eye doctors. We look forward to talking with you about all of your choices and putting your mind at ease about undergoing laser cataract surgery.