If you are considering cataract surgery, be sure to do your research so you know what to expect. Following are five questions to ask your healthcare provider before he or she performs your cataract surgery.
Fast forward to 2011 when the FDA approved “laser cataract surgery” or more precisely, “femtosecond laser cataract surgery.” In laser-assisted cataract surgery, a surgeon can view a magnified, high-resolution image given to him or her by a built-in OCT device. A peripheral incision, a capsulorrhexis, and fragmentation of the lens can be done with the assistance of a laser. This type of surgery is also a variation of phacoemulsification and will still used ultrasound power in many cases.
There is no question that in the hands of a highly trained cataract surgeon, laser cataract surgery is an excellent and advanced option. However due to variations in anatomy, some people cannot have laser cataract surgery, in which case phacoemulsification is still an option.
Part of your decision will be based on cost, as Medicare and commercial insurance companies do not cover laser-assited cataract surgery.
