Refractive cataract surgery is an advanced procedure designed not only to treat cataracts but also to enhance vision. While traditional cataract surgery removes and replaces the clouded lens with a standard artificial lens, this type of cataract surgery takes this further. By using advanced technology and specialized lenses, the procedure aims to correct common vision problems. Understand some of the basics of this type of approach to cataract surgery:
Benefits of Refractive Cataract Surgery
One significant feature of this approach to cataract surgery is a femtosecond laser system. This technology allows surgeons to achieve higher precision during the procedure. The laser assists in making accurate incisions and breaking up the cataract. This leads to a smoother surgical process and may contribute to better outcomes. After removing the cataract, the surgeon replaces the eye’s natural lens with a premium intraocular lens (IOL) designed to meet the patient’s specific vision needs.
Ways Refractive Cataract Surgery Improves Vision
Refractive cataract surgery does more than restore vision clouded by a cataract. Patients can address a range of refractive errors by choosing customized intraocular lenses and improve overall visual function. Here are some conditions it can improve:
Correcting Nearsightedness
Nearsightedness, or myopia, occurs when the eye’s shape causes light to focus in front of the retina rather than directly on it. This results in difficulty seeing distant objects. With this type of surgery, a specialized lens is implanted to adjust the focal point. Patients who previously relied on glasses or contact lenses for distance vision may notice a significant improvement after surgery.
Correcting Farsightedness
Farsightedness, or hyperopia, is the opposite of myopia. It occurs when light enters the eye and focuses behind the retina, making nearby objects appear blurry. This type of surgery can correct this by replacing the natural lens with a lens that refocuses light directly onto the retina. After surgery, many patients report being able to see objects at close range more clearly without needing additional corrective lenses.
Improving Astigmatism
Astigmatism is another standard refractive error characterized by an irregularly shaped cornea or lens that leads to blurred or distorted vision at all distances. Toric intraocular lenses may address this issue during surgery. These lenses are designed to counteract the irregularities in the eye’s shape, allowing light to focus correctly for sharper and clearer vision.
Decreasing Presbyopia
Presbyopia is an age-related condition that makes it difficult for the eye to focus on close objects. It is a natural part of aging and often necessitates reading glasses or bifocals. With this type of cataract surgery, patients can opt for multifocal or accommodating intraocular lenses. These advanced lenses allow the eye to focus at multiple distances, reducing reliance on reading glasses and providing more freedom in daily activities.
Find an Eye Surgeon Near You
Refractive cataract surgery restores clarity after cataract removal and can improve how patients experience the world visually. Correcting refractive errors allows individuals to regain a more precise, versatile range of vision. If you’re exploring options to improve your vision and target other refractive issues, this approach may provide a comprehensive solution. Speak with an eye care specialist to learn how this procedure could meet your unique needs.
