Click on the links below to read some of the most frequently asked questions about:
Frequently Asked Questions About Cataracts
Is cataract surgery performed with a laser?
Most surgeons today use ultrasound vibrations to break apart the cataract and remove it. This process is called phacoemulsification.
Can I expect a rapid recovery?
Today's surgeries are performed with the smallest possible incision to speed the recovery of vision and reduce the restrictions on your activities after surgery.
What if my medical history or current medication prevents me from considering an injection of local anesthesia?
Today, anesthesia may also be administered topically. This means no injection is required, and the medication numbs the eye without entering the bloodstream.
How soon after surgery will I be able to see?
In some instances, you will be able to see immediately following surgery, although most people experience clearer vision the day following surgery.
If I wear corrective eyeglasses or contact lenses before cataract surgery, can I expect improved vision and restored sight?
Today's cataract surgery is safer, and the visual outcomes better, than ever before. This is due to developments such as smaller incisions, refractive surgery to correct vision at the same time of cataract removal and the precise matching of the IOL to the eye. Today's cataract surgery also offers multifunctional vision, allowing patients to enjoy a better quality of life with independence from glasses in most situations -- distance, near and everything in between.
What is the cost of cataract surgery?
Medicare benefits generally apply to cataract surgery for people 65 or older. Other insurance policies may provide coverage as well. To find out about your coverage, you should contact Medicare, your insurance company and/or your doctor.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the ReZoom™ Multifocal Lens Implant
Will I still need to wear glasses if my surgeon recommends a ReZoom™ Multifocal lens?
The results will vary depending upon your vision, lifestyle and the anatomy of your eyes. Most people find that they need glasses to read small type or drive at night. Most people, however, can go to the store or conduct many of their day's activities without depending on glasses. In the cases studied, 92% of those who received the technology in ReZoom™ Multifocal lenses "never" or only "occasionally" needed to wear glasses.1
How is the ReZoom™ Multifocal IOL different from traditional single-vision intraocular lenses?
The ReZoom™ IOL is a multifocal intraocular lens. Unlike traditional single-vision lens implants, the ReZoom™ Multifocal lens provides quality vision both at a distance and up close. Traditional single-vision lenses usually provide good vision only at a distance with limited ability to see objects that are near without glasses.
How does the ReZoom™ Multifocal lens replace the cataract?
The natural lens inside the eye is gently removed through a small micro-incision in the periphery of your eye's cornea. The cataract-impaired lens is then removed through this incision and the lens implant is inserted in its place to permanently replace it. The procedure usually takes about 15 to 45 minutes and vision is usually improved immediately.
How long after surgery until I see my best?
Like most procedures, this depends upon the overall health of your eye. For most people, vision is noticeably better immediately and continues to improve during the first few weeks after the procedure.
Does the ReZoom™ Multifocal lens require an adjustment period?
Yes. For most people there is a period of weeks when your brain is learning to "see" up close and at a distance with the new lens. This adjustment period is usually complete within 6 to 12 weeks. Also, like all multifocal lenses, some people report halos or glare around lights. Again, for most people this diminishes over time. For some, it becomes less troublesome but never completely goes away. Most people report that the ability to see near and far outweighs any visual side effects associated with the lens.
Are there any risks of having the ReZoom™ Multifocal lens procedure?
Yes. With any surgical procedure there are risks. The biggest risk with any cataract procedure is infection. Less than one percent of patients having a lens implant procedure ever get an infection and most are treated successfully with medications. Infections, however, can cause a severe or total loss of vision.
1.Package insert. ReZoom™ Acrylic Multifocal Posterior Chamber Intraocular Lens.
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Frequently Asked Questions About the Verisyse™ Phakic Lens Implant
Will I be able to see or feel the Verisyse™ Phakic IOL in my eye?
Once the Verisyse™ Phakic IOL is placed inside your eye, it is virtually undetectable; however, you and others may be able to see the lens in your eye if you look very closely. Because the Verisyse™ Phakic IOL is placed inside your eye, you will not be able to feel it.
Is Verisyse™ safe?
Yes. The Verisyse™ Phakic IOL is made from polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) -- an extremely well proven biocompatible material that has been widely used in and on eyes for over 50 years.
Can I see well near and at a distance with the Verisyse™ Phakic IOL?
Most people who have the Verisyse™ procedure see well near and at a distance because their natural lens is left in place. This lens (the crystalline lens) naturally adjusts to focus on near and distant objects. As you age, this natural lens function may diminish and you may need reading glasses to see objects that are near.
Can I go swimming with the Verisyse™ Phakic IOL in my eye?
You can swim and participate in virtually any other activity with the Verisyse™ Phakic IOL because unlike contact lenses, the Verisyse™ Phakic IOL is implanted in the eye, in front of the crystalline lens. Therefore, it is not affected by external elements such as water.
Is the Verisyse™ Phakic IOL affected by elements like rain or steam?
The Verisyse™ Phakic IOL is not affected by external elements like rain or steam because it is implanted behind the cornea of your eye.
How long does the Verisyse™ Phakic IOL last?
Clinical evaluations have proven that PMMA can remain in the eye for decades without changing its properties or losing stability; however, the procedure is completely reversible. If, in the future, your surgeon determines that there is a better procedure, the Verisyse™ Phakic IOL can be surgically removed at any time. Only your doctor can determine if this measure may be necessary.
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Frequently Asked Questions About Laser Procedures
Is laser eye surgery safe?
The FDA has determined that laser eye surgery (e.g., LASIK) is a safe and effective means of treating myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism, provided you are a good candidate. The success rate for LASIK averages above 95% for most experienced ophthalmologists.
How accurate is LASIK?
Based on clinical data from the FDA, LASIK is very accurate. Generally, success in refractive surgery means achieving uncorrected visual acuity of 20/40 or better. Your outcome will depend upon many factors. Ask your doctor if LASIK is right for you.
Does the procedure hurt?
Laser eye surgery is a virtually pain-free procedure because drops are used to numb the cornea and eye before the surgery begins. The amount of discomfort patients experience after the anesthetic wears off varies with each individual, but with LASIK surgery, most irritation usually disappears within a few hours; however, you may be sensitive to light for a few days.
Can I wear my contact lenses before the procedure?
Contact lenses directly affect the shape and hydration of your cornea. Therefore, it is necessary to remove contact lenses prior to both the initial eye exam and your surgery.
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