Laser Cataract Surgery

The only effective treatment for cataracts is the surgical removal of the cloudy lens so it can be replaced with a new Intraocular Lens (IOL). Cataract surgery is one of the most effective and safest operations performed today. There were over one million cataract surgeries performed in America last year.

At South Texas Eye Consultants, our doctors use the laser cataract surgery method using the revolutionary LenSx femtosecond laser in Corpus Christi, TX. The LenSx system uses a computer-controlled laser to make corneal incisions and soften the cloudy cataract so it can be removed. The process is based on a 3-D image of the eye to provide the most customized and precise removal possible.

Benefits of Laser Cataract Surgery

• Completely customized treatment provides improved vision results
• Our doctors can gather detailed eye measurements prior to surgery to identify the unique characteristics of your eye and increase the effectiveness of the procedure
• Surgery time is quicker, but also more precise and controlled
• Patients remain comfortable during the quick process
• During surgery our doctors take advantage of real-time video imaging and 3-D visualization
• Computers and laser precision reduce the chance for “human” error
• If the patient has mild to moderate Astigmatism, the LenSx laser can precisely correct it with Laser Arcuate Incisions

Determining the Right Time for Cataract Surgery

If the cataract is small, surgery may be postponed for a while by changing your glasses prescription. You can postpone surgery until the cataract interferes with your vision and your daily activities. Since everyone’s visual needs differ, this point will differ from one person to another. It is not necessary to wait until the cataract is “ripe” (totally opaque) before having it removed.

During a Cataract Consultation you will be advised if you are a candidate for the surgery and how much improvement in vision you can expect from a cataract removal that is free of complications. You will then have to decide if the cataract is causing you enough trouble to warrant surgery.

There are certain rare circumstances that require cataract removal regardless of vision:

• The lens begins to break down (become “overripe”)
• The lens releases chemicals (break-down products) that might damage the eye and contribute to a type of glaucoma
• The cataract is so dense that it prevents observation or treatment of some other eye problem or disease

One Eye at a Time

If you have cataracts in both eyes, surgery is never done at the same time. You must wait for the first eye to heal before it is safe to proceed with the second eye surgery (typically at least 4 to 6 weeks).  

To learn more about laser cataract surgery in Corpus Christi, TX, contact us today to schedule a Cataract Consultation.