Making the Decision to Have Cataract Surgery
- Posted on: Jan 9 2021
Although cataract removal is the most common surgical procedure in the world, it is still a big decision for many individuals. Fortunately, making the decision is easier than ever — and patients have more time to make it. Here, experienced New York City ophthalmologist Dr. Gregory Pamel reviews some of the factors to consider when making this liberating choice.
Perfect Timing
Not long ago, patients were commonly advised to wait until a cataract was said to be “ripe” — mature enough to be easily removed from the surface of the eye. Now cataracts can be removed at any stage of development.
In general, a conservative approach is prudent. If a patient has normal vision, and doesn’t experience some of the activity-limiting symptoms such as cloudy vision, trouble reading or glare during nighttime driving, there is no need to remove the cataract quickly.
It is also true that patients should not ignore cataracts. As a cataract develops beyond the “ripe” stage, it becomes harder, making it more difficult to remove in a surgical procedure. Left untreated long enough, cataracts can inflame the eye or cause elevated eye pressure. High intraocular pressure often leads to glaucoma, the serious condition that damages the optic nerve and may result in total loss of vision.
Record of Success
Although important to your quality of life, the timing of cataract surgery is not a life-or-death decision. Removal of cataracts and replacement with an intraocular lens implant (IOL) is a routine procedure with an astronomically high success rate. There are no real negatives to replacing your clouded cataract with an IOL. The implant is designed to become a permanent part of your eye. It will not be rejected by your body or wear out. And because it is made of a special material, it will remain clear for life.
Originally performed with the use of a miniature blade, cataract removal can now be done using a femtosecond laser to make incisions. Dr. Pamel uses the the Optimedica Catalys Precision Laser Platform femtosecond cataract system, an ultra-precise instrument that makes possible greater precision for the surgeon and faster recovery for the patient. In fact, he was among the first laser cataract eye surgeons in New York City to master this advanced technology, and make it available to patients.
Lens Choices
Once you’ve made the decision to schedule your cataract surgery, the choices have just begun. Gone are the days when surgeons implanted the same type of lens for every patient. New varieties not only replace clouded cataracts, but also feature the ability to focus the field of vision from near to far.
These advanced lenses may reduce or eliminate a patient’s need for glasses or contacts after cataract surgery. For example, the ReSTOR and Tecnis Multifocal lenses provide a full range of vision, using a special surface design that brings close and distant objects into focus without eye muscle assistance. The Crystalens performs this same function by using your eye’s natural muscle.
To learn more about cataract surgery, schedule an appointment with Dr. Pamel at his Manhattan or Astoria office by contacting Pamel Vision & Laser Group today.
Posted in: Cataract Surgery
