Cataract surgery is among the most common procedures performed in the United States, because all people who live to be old enough will develop cataracts. Cataracts form as we age, when proteins in the eye begin to clump together and form opaque clusters. Over time, these proteins begin to cloud vision and obstruct the passage of light into the eye, causing increasing vision loss.
Over time, this vision loss can begin to inhibit daily life, making it difficult to drive, enjoy hobbies like crafting or reading, work, and perform everyday tasks. While cataracts can be manageable (and sometimes not noticable) in the short term, it is important to discuss options with a qualified eye doctor when they begin to impact daily activities.
Refractive Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is the only way to permanently remove cataracts and restore vision. The procedure involves the removal of the clouded lens, which is then replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens or IOL.
Dr. Ravi Shah is an experienced cataract surgeon at the Lehigh Valley Eye Center and an expert in refractive cataract surgery. With extensive experience in small incision cataract surgery and astigmatism correction, Dr. Shah is a reputable surgeon with proven track record of excellent patient outcomes.
Utilizing the Alcon LenSx laser, Dr. Shah is able to perform a highly customized cataract procedure that enhances visual outcomes and helps patients to see their best.
While many of the steps in traditional cataract surgery are performed using hand-held instruments, refractive or laser cataract surgery is done exclusively using laser technology, eliminating the use of a blade. This allows for exceptional accuracy, highly customizable outcomes, and an overall more gentle procedure.
Benefits of Refractive Cataract Surgery
Benefits of laser cataract surgery, as compared to traditional cataract surgery, include:
- Customizable treatment options
- Advanced 3D imaging of the eye
- More precise and predictable visual outcomes
- Gentler cataract removal
- Options for astigmatism correction during the cataract procedure
Lens Implant Options
During your cataract consultation, your Dr. Shah will work with you to explore what IOL options may best fit your lifestyle. IOLs come in different shapes and sizes, each designed for different visual outcomes. Monofocal implants typically correct vision at one distance, near or far, while multifocal implants provide vision correction at multiple distances, increasing range of vision. Certain implants are also able to correct astigmatism.
If you are suffering from vision loss caused by cataracts, it’s time to explore your options. Request an appointment with Ravi Shah, M.D. to begin on the path to regaining your vision.
