Here’s what I wish every patient knew
As a cataract surgeon, one of the most common things I hear from patients after surgery is, “I wish I had done this sooner.”
Most people know cataract surgery removes a cloudy lens and restores clearer vision.
What many don’t realize is that today’s cataract surgery can also be an opportunity to improve visual lifestyle.
You Have More Options Than You May Think
When patients come for cataract treatment, they often don’t realize that cataract surgery not only involves a lens implant, but they can also choose their type of implant.
The lens implanted during cataract surgery plays a major role in how they function visually for life.
A standard lens implant, covered by Medicare and most insurance plans, provides many perfect vision at a single distance without glasses. However, patients with astigmatism will still need glasses to see everything, including reading, computer work, or other daily activities.
This can be limiting, especially in this day and age when most personal technology falls into this range.
For the right candidate, premium lens technology reduces dependence on glasses, provides vision at multiple distances and corrects astigmatism. Not every patient is a candidate for every lens, which is why discussing your lifestyle and visual goals with your surgeon is so important.
Technology Matters
There are different technologies used to do the actual surgery. Traditional surgery is an excellent option, it is preformed by hand with micro instruments under a very powerful microscope.
One of the latest advancements is laser-assisted cataract surgery. A laser is used to preform the more technically challenging parts of the surgery. This delivers a higher level of precision and optimizes outcome accuracy. This is especially important for patients looking for glasses independence and those choosing premium lens implants. Today’s technology gives surgeons additional tools to customize treatment for each patient.
Think Beyond Removing the Cataract
One of the most important conversations I have with patients isn’t about the cataract itself.
It’s about how they want to see after surgery.
Do you want to read without glasses? Drive more comfortably at night? Enjoy hobbies with greater visual freedom?
These are questions worth discussing before surgery, because you are choosing how you will see in the future.
Ask Questions
Cataract surgery is often a once-in-a-lifetime procedure. My advice is simple: Think about how you want to function for the rest of your life.
Ask about your lens options. Ask about available technology. Ask what outcomes are realistic for your lifestyle and your eyes.. The goal is to help you achieve the best vision!.
Dr. Freidl is a board-certified, fellowship-trained ophthalmologist at Florida Eye Specialists, specializing in advanced cataract and glaucoma surgery.
For more information or to schedule a consultation please contact Florida Eye Specialists at (904) 872-6879 or visit us online at www.floridaeyespecialists.com
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