Cataract Surgery in Florida

If you’re looking into getting cataract surgery in Florida (or anywhere else, for that matter) there are a few key elements to include in your search for the ideal surgeon. You might, quite naturally, assume that all cataract operations are the same. However, while this might have been true a decade or so ago, today’s scientific and technological advances mean that there are now multiple options to choose from.

The following looks at what these are and why you should take your time to find the best cataract surgeon for your needs.

The Ultimate Guide to Cataract Surgery in Florida and Across the USA

• The different types of cataract surgery
• The different types of intraocular lenses
• FAQs

The different types of cataract surgery

Cataract surgery removes the diseased lens from the eye and replaces it with an artificial one. There are two options to do this—traditional cataract surgery and laser cataract surgery.

As the name suggests, the former is the method that’s been used for many years. The surgeon manually makes an incision in the eye and into the lens capsule. A laser is then inserted to break down the natural lens. The pieces of this are suctioned out and the new lens is secured in place. No stitches are required to close the holes, as these are so small.

Laser cataract surgery utilizes a software program that makes a precise map of the anatomy of the eye. A single laser is then used to both make the hole in the eye and access the lens. The lens can then be broken down and removed and the new one fitted. In addition to this procedure, astigmatism can also be done concurrently, using the same laser. Again, no stitches are required post-procedure.

The different types of intraocular lenses

There are two main categories of intraocular lenses (IOLs)—monofocal and premium.

Monofocal lenses will provide you with clear vision at a single distance (either near or far). With these, corrective eyeglasses will be needed to give you good vision at the other distance.

Premium lenses can provide great vision at different distances. There are many kinds, with more being designed as technology continues to advance at a rapid rate. Some of today’s cutting-edge options include:

• Multifocal IOLs: These provide focused vision at both near and far distances. Some can also give you good intermediate vision.
• Toric IOLs: These correct astigmatism. However, they only work at a single distance, so you’ll also need corrective eyeglasses for good all-round vision.
• Accommodating IOLs: These use the latest tech to, quite literally, mimic the attributes of a natural lens. They shift and change shape along with your eye muscle movements, providing focused vision at all distances.

FAQs

• Which type of cataract surgery is best for me? Traditional surgery is still extremely common. Your cataract surgeon will discuss both options with you before you commit to one or other of the procedures.
• Can I get cataract surgery through Medicare? Medicare usually covers the cost of a traditional procedure and a single new pair of corrective eyeglasses. However, most allow you to pay the difference if you’d prefer to go down the laser surgery route.
• Can I have a premium lens with a traditional procedure? No, only a monofocal lens can be fitted during a traditional cataract operation. You’ll need to upgrade to laser cataract surgery if you want a premium IOL. 

Find the right surgeon for you: search our directory and read real patient reviews before you book.