LenSx Cataract Surgery

The Cataract Surgeons

laser cataract eye surgery

Traditional cataract surgery has helped millions of people improve their vision. However, this approach also relies on a surgeon’s experience, coordination, and use of a scalpel for the procedure to be successful. LenSx, a form of cataract surgery that uses an advanced laser to make the necessary incision, removes those potential barriers to success and provides a less risky and more precise option for patients with cataracts.

What is LenSx Laser Cataract Eye Surgery?

With traditional cataract surgery, the surgeon uses a sharp blade to create several small incisions in the front of your eye. Then a tool is inserted that emits ultrasound waves that break up the clouded lens to make it easier to remove. In some cases, the cataract can be removed whole. When this process is complete, the surgeon inserts an artificial lens.

While this process is overwhelmingly safe, it is not without risks. The tiny incisions into your eye are done manually, and the surgeon determines the cuts’ locations. Furthermore, extended use of the ultrasound device can also impact the eye.

LenSx surgery, however, uses an image-guided femtosecond laser instead of a blade. This laser shoots short pulses of light that negate the use of a blade. The bladeless system also uses real-time imaging of the eye to ensure a higher degree of precision to determine where the cuts should be made. This procedure also gives the surgeon the ability to insert the new lens with more efficiency and accuracy.

Due to the accuracy and less invasive nature, LenSx surgery typically requires only half the ultrasonic energy of traditional cataract energy. As the procedure is efficient, it typically takes no more than 10 minutes to complete. Complicated cases may take more time, sometimes up to 30 minutes.

There will be a short recovery period post-procedure afterward. Our patients return home, through the help of a friend or driver, within a few hours of the surgery.

The Benefits of LenSx Eye Surgery

When you undergo the LenSx procedure, you received a variety of benefits over the traditional surgery:

● Quicker procedure

● The more precise process for your specific eye needs

● Less invasive and lower complication risk

● No need for the manual of a blade

● The surgeon has increased control throughout the procedure

● More comfortable experience

● Shorter recovery period

Of course, the procedure’s overall benefit is improved eyesight that occurs almost immediately after the surgery has been completed. Progressive vision loss will immediately cease, and cataract issues are entirely resolved. You’ll no longer need glasses, content lenses, or other corrective eyewear.

The LensX laser also helps the surgeon manage a patient’s astigmatism. During traditional cataract surgery, this is not possible.

Issues are always possible. However, the LenSx system is designed to reduce as many complications as possible. Traditional cataract surgery is safe, yet the LenSx procedure is even safer with multiple safeguards taken to ensure your specific eye’s best outcome.

How to Prepare for LenSx Eye Surgery

Not everyone is a candidate for LenSx surgery. Those with complicated vision issues may not be eligible.

It should also be noted that LenSx is considered a premium procedure by most insurance carriers. This means you can expect to pay out-of-pocket expenses to have the surgery performed. However, your insurance may cover traditional cataract surgery. For a specific answer on your policy, it’s best to reach out to your insurance carrier.

Before your surgery date, you should arrange for post-procedure transportation from a friend, family member, or neighbor. While your vision will improve immediately, it’s essential to take precautions still to ensure you can arrive home safely to rest.

Otherwise, though, there is typically no need for involved preparations for LenSx surgery. Your surgeon, though, may provide you with specific instructions based on your unique circumstances. If you are given these instructions, it’s essential to follow them to ensure there are no complications during the recovery period.

What to Expect After LenSx Eye Surgery

You should expect your vision to be improved immediately post-procedure. Still, it’s best to take at least 24 hours to rest and recover. This means refraining from activities that may strain your eyes and avoiding touching your eyes. Typically, you’ll have a post-surgery checkup within a few days of your surgery.

It’s essential to allow your eyes to heal. While LenSx is noninvasive, your eyes have still undergone a significant event. You can expect to have some issues with coordination in the first few days after surgery, and you should stay away from environments that can lead to bacteria, dust, or other contaminants coming in contact with your eyes.

You will also receive eye drops to use while you recover. Make sure to follow all instructions from your surgeon, as they may have additional restrictions or advice for you to follow.

Shreveport Laser Cataract Surgery

If you’re dealing with eye-related issues, the Cataract Surgeons are here to help. Using state-of-the-art tools and equipment, we offer potential ways of improving your vision with little to no side effects through our modern procedures.

Make an appointment with us today to see how we can help. We’ve provided our services and treatments to patients who live in the Shreveport area and those visiting from across the nation.

LenSx® FAQ

How does the LenSx® laser work?

How does the LenSx® laser work?

LenSx® simplifies what was once the most difficult part of cataract eye surgery: making incisions in the eye. Instead of relying on a surgeon to identify where to cut and use a blade to do so, the LenSx® system provides real-time imaging to the surgeon, making it easier to find the best spots to make incisions. The surgeon then uses the LenSx® laser to make precise cuts where needed.

What is a femtosecond laser?

What is a femtosecond laser?

Femtosecond lasers were originally used to perform LASIK surgery. It can shoot pulses of light that last for incredibly small fractions of time, around one-millionth of a billionth of a second. This makes the femtosecond laser amazingly accurate, predictable, and safe.

Will insurance cover this procedure like most cataract surgeries?

Will insurance cover this procedure like most cataract surgeries?

Traditional cataract surgery is usually covered by public and private health insurers. If you’re not sure if your health insurance carrier covers cataract surgery, make sure to reach out to them and ask.

As LenSx® is a premium procedure, there’s typically an out-of-pocket fee you’ll need to pay. This fee can vary based on a variety of factors, and you should be provided with a specific price during your consultation.

What are the complications associated with the LenSx® laser??

What are the complications associated with the LenSx® laser?

As with any procedure, it’s possible for complications to arise during this procedure. However, the process and system are designed and calibrated to offer higher levels of safety than traditional surgery options.

What are the advantages of the LenSx® laser vs. traditional cataract surgery?

What are the advantages of the LenSx® laser vs. traditional cataract surgery?

There are three primary advantages of using LenSx®:

  • The laser is more precise than a blade.
  • It’s less invasive, so it minimizes risk.
  • It offers more control to the surgeon due to its real-time imagery.

What should a patient expect after surgery?

What should a patient expect after surgery?

You should expect improved vision almost immediately after surgery. This improved vision will free you from glasses, contact lenses, or other corrective eyewear.

Furthermore, because the procedure replaces the clouded lens with a new, artificial one, the problem of blurry vision caused by cataracts is completely resolved. Any progressive vision loss caused by cataracts will also cease immediately upon completion of the procedure.

It should be noted that there may be some redness on the eye for around a week afterward. This redness is common in many patients and should not cause any pain.

How long does the LenSx® laser procedure take?

How long does the LenSx® laser procedure take?

The length of the procedure will depend on the nature of the patient’s cataracts. Complex cases may take longer, but the entire procedure usually lasts no longer than 10 minutes.

Learn about LenSx – Laser Cataract Surgery treatment options available at WK Eye Institute. Shreveport’s leading LASIK and cataract surgery providers. Offering the latest in LASIK vision correction and cataract surgery technology, Willis-Knighton Eye Institute are the Shreveport’s leading eye care professionals. Call 318-413-6855