What is the best treatment for cataracts?

Cataracts are treated surgically. There are 2 types of cataract surgery: traditional surgery and laser cataract surgery. In both surgeries the natural lens is replaced with an artificial implant.

 

Traditional cataract surgery

In traditional cataract surgery, Dr. Hennen uses ultrasound to break the cataract into small pieces, and vacuum to remove those pieces from the eyeball. 

 

Laser cataract surgery

In laser cataract surgery, Dr. Hennen pre-treats the cataract with laser before breaking it with ultrasound and using vacuum to remove it.

 

What kind of implants are used for cataract surgery?

Dr. Hennen uses two types of intraocular lenses: standard and premium. Regardless of the implant you choose, your vision will improve following cataract surgery.

 

Standard intraocular lens:

You can get a standard IOL that corrects vision at one distance: either driving or reading. Majority of patients prefer to have clear vision for driving and use reading glasses following cataract surgery. This implant is covered by insurance.

 

Premium intraocular lens:

A premium IOL corrects near, intermediate, and distance vision.

It is important to remember that the premium IOL decreases (but does not eliminate) the need for glasses. It is regarded a luxury item and not covered by your insurance.

 

What are the complications of cataract surgery?

Complications may include:

• Rupture of the posterior capsule that holds the cataract inside the eye. The cataract may fall inside the eyeball, necessitating a second procedure to remove it all together

• Infection

• Bleeding

• Retinal detachment

• Increased eye pressure

• Cystoid macular edema or CME. In this case the central part of the retina (a film that lines the back of the eye) can become swollen and cause blurry vision. It resolves with steroid and anti-inflammatory eye drops. Sometime these medications are injected around or inside the eye to allow for faster resolution.