Is laser cataract surgery better than traditional cataract surgery?
Approximately 330,000 cataract surgeries take place each year – and that’s in England alone. Perhaps you’re among the hundreds of thousands of Brits who need the procedure this year.
If so, by now, you’re probably aware that different types of cataract surgery exist and have started weighing up your options.
Figuring out which procedure is right for you can be overwhelming. Should you stick with the traditional method? Or is laser cataract surgery better?
There’s no one answer – everyone’s needs are different. Read on to learn more about each treatment to see which would suit you best.
Traditional cataract surgery
In traditional cataract surgery, your surgeon will make a small incision on the cornea. They then insert a probe into the eye, which breaks up the cloudy cataract that obstructs your vision. After that, the surgeon inserts another device to remove the pieces of the cataract.
Your surgeon will complete the procedure by placing a lens through the incision and sealing it closed.
This surgery requires a skilled and trustworthy surgeon since they’re working on such a small, delicate area.
Laser cataract surgery
Laser cataract surgery relies on technology to make tiny incisions in your eye. The device maps the cataract before going in to remove it so that the incision is very precise.
The laser makes a small enough incision that you won’t need stitches afterwards. Other than this, the procedure is the same as traditional cataract surgery.
For some patients, it’s better to have laser cataract surgery than the traditional procedure. For instance, it’s an excellent option for those with astigmatism because the laser can create specific incisions in the cornea to reshape it. This corrects your astigmatism.
Your doctor will determine if the laser option would suit you better than traditional surgery at your initial consultation.
Which type of cataract surgery is better?
Studies show that both surgeries are equally accurate and effective and provide the same results.
You might want to know what to expect from cataract surgery recovery. Interestingly enough, most patients have the same amount of downtime.
Some patients see clearly right away, while others need about two to three weeks to experience clear vision. Full healing usually takes about three months.
Lots of patients do have to consider price, though, and there is a noteworthy difference between the options. The laser cataract surgery cost tends to be higher than the traditional procedure. Again, though, it’s best to consult with your doctor to decide which option suits you best, financially and health-wise.
Restore your vision with cataract surgery
Both types of cataract surgery are simple and effective. It’s up to you and the surgeon to answer the question, is laser cataract surgery better than traditional in your unique situation?
If you still need help deciding, we’re here. Schedule a consultation with Eye Clinic London and, together, we’ll discover the best treatment plan for you.