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A cataract is caused by the clouding of the lens in the eye. As the cataracts progress, eyeglasses prescriptions change frequently and, daily visual function becomes impaired. Cataract surgery involves the removal of the cloudy lens and the implantation of an artificial lens. The current technique for cataract surgery is called phacoemulsification (ultrasound) through a small incision. Since a self-sealing small incision is used, it does not require suture closure, thus the term "no stitch cataract surgery." The entire process is completed in less than ½ hour and is performed under local anesthesia. Our doctor is board-certified and fellowship-trained and is specifically skilled in removing cataracts, and is also experienced in the recognition and treatment of complications of cataract surgery. After surgery with traditional monofocal lenses, most patients experience very good distance vision. However, most people receiving these standard lenses still require reading glasses or bifocals to have a full range of vision.
Refractive cataract surgery is an innovative procedure that combines the removal of cataracts with vision correction. Unlike traditional cataract surgery, which focuses solely on removing the clouded lens, refractive cataract surgery uses advanced technology and specially designed intraocular lenses (IOLs) to correct pre-existing vision problems such as myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism during the same procedure.
This dual approach offers patients the potential to reduce or even eliminate their dependence on glasses or contact lenses after surgery, providing improved visual outcomes and a quicker return to daily activities.
Traditional cataract surgery aims to remove the clouded lens and restore clear vision by implanting a monofocal IOL, which provides good distance vision but often requires glasses for near and intermediate tasks. On the other hand, refractive cataract surgery goes a step further by using premium IOLs designed to correct pre-existing refractive errors.
These premium IOLs can be multifocal or toric in design, allowing them to provide clear vision at multiple distances (multifocal) or correct astigmatism (toric). Additionally, refractive cataract surgery may involve the use of advanced technology such as laser-assisted surgery for increased precision and customized treatment.
Ideal candidates for refractive cataract surgery are individuals who have been diagnosed with cataracts and are also nearsighted, farsighted, or have astigmatism. Good health, both generally and specifically regarding the eyes, is crucial. Patients should be free from eye diseases like glaucoma, diabetic retinopathy, or retinal detachment.
During your consultation at Wyckoff Ophthalmology, Dr. Melanie Sinatra will perform a comprehensive eye exam to assess your eligibility for the procedure. She will consider factors such as the type and severity of your cataracts, the health of your eyes, and your visual goals before making a recommendation.
As with any surgical procedure, there are some potential risks and complications associated with refractive cataract surgery. While rare, these may include:
Our experienced team at Wyckoff Ophthalmology takes every precaution to minimize these risks, and we will discuss them in detail with you during your consultation.
Before Surgery: You'll undergo a comprehensive eye exam, and our team will take measurements to determine the best IOL for your visual needs. We'll also provide you with pre-operative instructions and answer any questions or concerns.
During Surgery: The procedure typically takes about 15-30 minutes per eye. You'll be given local anesthesia, and Dr. Sinatra will make a small incision to remove the clouded lens using ultrasound energy (phacoemulsification) or laser technology. She will then implant the new IOL and close the incision.
After Surgery: After a brief recovery period at our office, you'll be able to go home with someone else driving you. We'll provide you with detailed aftercare instructions, including using eye drops, wearing an eye shield while sleeping, and attending follow-up appointments. Most patients experience rapid visual improvement within the first few days to weeks after surgery.
Refractive cataract surgery has a very high success rate, with over 95% of patients achieving improved vision and satisfaction. Clinical studies have shown that more than 80% of patients who undergo this procedure achieve uncorrected vision equal to or better than 20/40 without glasses.
At Wyckoff Ophthalmology, we strive for the best possible outcomes using state-of-the-art technology and our team's extensive experience. We'll work closely with you to ensure that your visual goals are met and that you're completely satisfied with your results.
While refractive cataract surgery is designed to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses, you may still require them for certain tasks or in specific situations. Factors such as your visual demands, the type of IOL used, and any remaining refractive error can influence your dependency on glasses after surgery.
In some cases, patients may still need glasses for reading (presbyopia) if they choose a monofocal IOL optimized for distance vision or if their eyes have not fully stabilized following surgery. Our team at Wyckoff Ophthalmology will discuss these possibilities with you during your consultation and help manage your expectations based on your individual needs.
Astigmatism is a common vision condition that occurs when the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye) or lens has an irregular shape. This asymmetry causes light to bend unequally as it enters the eye, resulting in blurred or distorted vision at all distances.
Refractive cataract surgery can correct astigmatism using toric IOLs specifically designed to address this condition. Toric IOLs have different powers in different meridians of the lens, allowing them to compensate for the asymmetry caused by astigmatism. During your consultation at Wyckoff Ophthalmology, Dr. Sinatra will assess your eligibility for a toric IOL and discuss your treatment options.
Yes, it's possible to treat both eyes during the same refractive cataract surgery session. Many patients choose to have their second eye treated on the same day as the first, allowing them to enjoy the benefits of improved vision in both eyes more quickly.
However, our team at Wyckoff Ophthalmology may recommend staging your surgery if you have certain medical conditions or unique visual needs. We'll discuss this with you during your consultation and determine the best course of treatment tailored to your situation.
