Advanced cataract surgery in Laguna Hills with laser assisted technology

Blurred vision and dulled colors take some of the enjoyment out of life’s simple pleasures. Cataracts can also interfere with independent living. Today it is easier than ever to have the problem corrected. At the Orange County Eye Institute in Laguna Hills, Dr. George Salib performs cataract surgery utilizing the advanced laser technique.

Understanding cataracts

A cataract is a common cause of vision impairment in individuals over the age of 40, and without treatment, it can result in blindness. The condition is characterized by clouding of the eye’s natural lens. Cortical cataracts begin to develop at the cortex of the lens and spread toward the center in a spoke or wedge pattern. Subcapsular cataracts are at the back of the lens. If you have diabetes or have taken high-dose steroidal medication, you might be prone to this type. Nuclear cataracts form in the center or nucleus of the lens. This type is associated with aging.

Do you need cataract surgery?

In many cases, cataracts develop slowly. While you may be able to tolerate the inconvenience for a while, it gradually becomes a functional and quality of life issue. Dr. Salib urges annual comprehensive eye examinations for the professional assessment of cataracts, and to monitor how quickly the condition is progressing.

You are probably ready to consider surgery if you answer “yes” to any of these questions:

Does blurred vision cause difficulty do your job correctly and efficiently?
Are you having problems seeing good enough to drive?
Do oncoming headlights glare?
Are you frustrated trying to read or watch television?
Are daily tasks (shopping, cooking, taking medications, etc.) more challenging because of your vision?
Do lights seem too bright or make it more difficult to see?
Do colors appear less bright than they used to?
Are you concerned about cataract impacting your level of independence?

Femto laser surgery could be an excellent solution.

Precision at the speed of light

A femtosecond is one quadrillionth of a second. That is the duration of light pulses emitted by the laser Dr. Salib uses for cataract surgery.

Traditional cataract surgery involves the removal of the clouded lens and replacement with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Laser cataract surgery accomplishes the same thing. However, the femtosecond laser’s ultrashort bursts of intense energy bring an incredibly high degree of precision to certain steps in the procedure that are traditionally performed manually, with hand-held tools.

For example:

Creating the incision in the cornea that allows the doctor to access the lens of the eye. Dr. Salib uses optical coherence tomography (OCT) during laser-assisted cataract procedures. With this 3D imaging, he meticulously plans the laser incision so that it will self-seal, without need for sutures. This technique removes variables of the surgeon’s instruments, steadiness, and experience, and reduces the risk of infection.
Capsulotomy – opening the capsule that encases the crystalline lens. In the past, the capsule was generally removed. With this laser technique, the capsule remains intact and undamaged, to contain the IOL and keep it properly positioned. The accuracy of capsulotomy and centering of the IOL is a significant factor in resulting visual acuity. With conventional cataract surgery, capsulotomy is performed by opening the capsule with a needle, then using it to tear a circular opening.
Fragmentation of the lens and cataract. The femtosecond laser shatters these structures so they may be gently suctioned out of the capsule in preparation for placing the IOL. With traditional phacoemulsification, heat can build up in the incision, potentially contributing to astigmatism. Laser energy softens the cataract, so fragments can be more easily removed without incision burn.

How patients in Laguna Hills benefit from laser-assisted cataract surgery

With Femto laser surgery, cataract procedures are accurate and the technique reduces the risk of damaging the capsule, and is safer for the inner eye, lessening the chance of complications such as the detached retina. Astigmatism can be corrected at the time of surgery. The skill and experience of the surgeon is paramount to a successful outcome. Dr. Salib is a cornea expert.

The Orange County Eye Institute is equipped with the latest equipment for preoperative testing. In addition, Dr. Salib finds that the advantages of Femto laser cataract surgery are most evident with the use of a premium quality IOL. He uses the best multifocal and accommodating lenses available.

Is laser assisted cataract surgery the right choice to help you see more clearly and live with less dependence on eyeglasses or contact lenses? Call (949) 441-5444 to schedule a consultation with Dr. Salib at The Orange County Eye Institute in Laguna Hills to find out.