What Is Traditional Cataract Surgery?
Known to be both extremely safe and remarkably effective, traditional cataract surgery is among the most frequently performed treatments worldwide. Our board-certified ophthalmologists at Focal Point Vision in San Antonio, TX are all proficient in both traditional and laser cataract surgery and are able to determine which method is best for each individual patient, depending on their unique situation and any additional refractive errors they may have. The primary difference in the two methods is that traditional surgery is performed using handheld surgical tools while the laser version is principally performed with advanced laser technology.
What Are The Benefits of Traditional Cataract Surgery?
Traditional cataract surgery can help correct cloudy, worsening vision with a simple procedure. The benefits of the procedure performed by the board-certified ophthalmologists at Focal Point Vision in San Antonio, TX include:
- Improved vision
- Customized treatment plans with an optimized procedure for those who don’t qualify for laser cataract surgery
- Minimal downtime following the surgery
- The procedure doesn’t require stitches
- Very low risk of complications
- Minimal risk of infection
- The possibility of no longer needing glasses after the surgery
Traditional Cataract Surgery FAQ
How long does traditional cataract surgery take?
Traditional cataract surgery is very quick, often taking only 10 minutes or less for each eye. It’s performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you won’t require a hospital stay and can go home after your surgery is finished.
Is traditional cataract surgery safe?
Traditional cataract surgery is very safe and effective when performed by experienced doctors like the team at Focal Point Vision. Traditional cataract surgery is one of the most common cataract treatments, with an estimated 3.8 million surgeries performed worldwide every year.
Which is better, traditional cataract surgery or laser surgery?
When it comes to cataract surgery, there is no “best” surgery. During your consultation at Focal Point Vision, your doctor will assess your condition and then determine whether traditional cataract surgery or laser surgery is the best option to address your cataracts. Both methods can safely and effectively treat your cataracts to restore healthy vision.
Is Traditional Cataract Surgery Right For Me?
Most patients living with cataracts are suitable candidates for traditional cataract surgery as long as they are in good general health. Some kinds of astigmatism could lower the likelihood of the best outcomes, which might, in turn, affect an individual’s suitability for the procedure. Be that as it may, many kinds of astigmatism can possibly be corrected at the same time as cataract surgery. In addition, certain eye problems, like macular degeneration or other retinal diseases, might impact an individual’s suitability for cataract surgery. Sometimes, cataract surgery could be deemed an elective surgery based on the degree of vision obstruction and other circumstances. At Focal Point Vision, we do a complete evaluation of each patient’s ocular health and any previous health issues to establish whether traditional cataract surgery is the best treatment option.
How Is Traditional Cataract Surgery Done?
At our office, traditional cataract surgery is an outpatient treatment that usually takes under ten minutes for each eye. During laser cataract surgery, the patient is conscious; however, his or her eyes are fully numbed prior to the procedure to create total comfort. We will use a scalpel to create an extremely small incision at the outside boundary of the corneal tissue and utilize a separate instrument to access the lens via the incision. This instrument disintegrates the cataract lens using ultrasonic waves, and it is then suctioned out of the eye. The opening is so tiny that it doesn’t require a single stitch and will heal by itself.
Am I A Candidate For Traditional Cataract Surgery?
For the team at Focal Point Vision, our top priority is enhancing your vision and overall eye health. We’re ready to make sure you receive any eye care you may need. If you have been diagnosed with cataracts or believe you have the typical symptoms, call our San Antonio, TX location to arrange an exam with one of our board-certified ophthalmologists. Find out if traditional cataract surgery is the ideal approach to restore your eye health and clear sight.
