The most recent figures show that around 411,000 Australians have cataracts[mfn]Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. 2021. Eye health, How common is visual impairment? – Australian Institute of Health and Welfare. [online] Available at: <https://www.aihw.gov.au/reports/eye-health/eye-health/contents/how-common-is-visual-impairment> [/mfn]. Unfortunately, this is a common disease the world over that can’t be prevented. Thankfully there are three successful forms of cataract surgery available to Australians. The latest is laser cataract surgery.
Why should you consider laser cataract surgery? What makes someone a good candidate for it?
Let’s take a closer look at cataract surgery and how you can choose the best treatment.
Treatments for cataracts
A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye. Cataract surgery works by removing the clouded lens and fitting a new, artificial lens.
What is standard cataract surgery?
This traditional form of cataract surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures performed worldwide each day. It involves removing the damaged lens and replacing it with a single focus lens. We perform this procedure while you are under local anaesthetic and sedation. We make a tiny incision by hand to remove the old cataract and replace it with the new monofocal lens. This lens is fixed for one distance which means you will still require glasses for most tasks.
What is lifestyle cataract surgery?
Lifestyle cataract surgery is very similar to traditional cataract surgery. The difference is the lens. The surgeon will fit a multifocal lens, meaning you can do more activities than before without the need for glasses.
What is laser cataract surgery?
The most advanced form of cataract surgery is laser cataract surgery.
There are many benefits of laser cataract surgery. Firstly, many aspects of the procedure traditionally performed by the surgeon by hand, we carry out with an ultra-precise laser. This allows for extremely precise fitting of extended depth of focus (EDOF) lens implants. These lenses can often eliminate your need for glasses for all tasks, including reading, intermediate and distance vision.
Is everyone suitable for laser cataract surgery?
Suppose you’ve been diagnosed with cataracts but generally have good eye health. In that case, you’re likely a suitable candidate for laser cataract surgery.
You must also have…
- had stable vision for the last year
- had a stable eyeglass/contact lens prescription for at least two years
- no current eye disease, such as dry eye, glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy or macular degeneration
- no previous eye disease, including corneal ulcers
Rest assured, the majority of people with cataracts can benefit from this treatment.
Your surgeon will talk through your medical history and rule out any possible concerns. A thorough examination in the clinic will confirm whether you can go ahead and schedule the procedure.
Can you afford laser cataract surgery?
The out-of-pocket expense for laser cataract surgery is $1,200 to $1,700. This includes all fees. Your health insurance may impose other charges.
Are you interested in laser cataract surgery?
Has this article piqued your interest in laser cataract surgery? As we’ve seen, there are many reasons to choose laser cataract surgery over traditional options. That said, the only way to know for sure if you’re a good candidate is to come into the clinic for a consultation.
At OKKO Eye Specialist Centre, we’re dedicated to giving you the best possible treatment for your individual condition.
Book a consultation with us today and learn more about the options open to you.
