What is premium cataract surgery?
Many people have cataract surgery without knowing they have different treatment options. Unfortunately, most people only find this out after having cataract surgery. In this post, we give insight into what premium cataract surgery is, and why so many people are now opting for this over standard cataract surgery.
Why do people get cataracts?
Developing a cataract is a normal change within the eye that usually occurs as you age. The only way to treat cataracts is with surgery; however, in England and Wales, there is a rise in unoperated vision-impairing cataracts among those 65 and older. Unfortunately, left untreated, cataracts can cause health problems and significantly reduce your quality of life.
Standard cataract surgery vs. premium cataract surgery
During standard cataract surgery, the surgeon removes the cloudy lens using a scalpel and replaces it with a synthetic monofocal lens which has a fixed focus for one distance. After surgery, you must obtain a new glasses prescription to get the best vision possible.
In contrast, premium cataract surgery involves the use of highly precise lasers to make incisions in the cornea. This enables the surgeon to access the cataract, soften it and break it into tiny pieces which they can easily remove. The surgeon then inserts an advanced premium lens which can correct your prescription for a range of distances depending on your needs and lifestyle…
Benefits of premium cataract surgery
Premium cataract surgeries tend to be safer and gentler. You will benefit by receiving better results than you would after standard eye surgery. Because the incision is smaller, healing is also quicker.
Once the cataract is softened by the laser, it becomes easier to remove. This means there is less risk of damaging the tissues surrounding the cataract. The surgeon can then insert your chosen lens, which, in some cases, may eliminate the need for glasses for many daily activities.
Recovery time
Premium cataract surgeries have a similar recovery time to general cataract surgery. They are both similar in that you should wear a protective eye shield after the surgery for hours or days at a time. This will keep you from getting anything in the eye or accidentally rubbing it.
Your surgeon can prescribe medication, like an anti-inflammatory or antibiotic to help with the healing process. You must attend a follow-up appointment with the surgeon within the next day of the surgery.
An uncomfortable feeling is normal but should only last a few days. Many people experience an improvement in their vision straight after the surgery. Still, it is also normal to have blurred vision initially.
Depending on the severity of your cataract, your eye may take weeks to a month to heal. After healing, your surgeon or optometrist will examine your eyes to ensure that they achieved your desired vision and whether or not you require a glasses prescription.
Getting premium cataract surgery
If you are thinking about getting premium cataract surgery, you should consider that, in general, premium cataract surgery is safer and more effective than standard cataract surgery. Understanding the difference between the two is the first step to making a decision that is right for you.
Book a free appointment today, and we’ll show you how you can restore clear vision AND free yourself from the hassle of reading glasses so you can focus on what matters most.
Share This Story, Choose Your Platform!
About the expert
Mr Samer Hamada | Consultant Ophthalmologist and Corneal Surgeon
MD, MSc, DO (hons), FRCSEd, FRCOphth I am Samer Hamada, founder and consultant ophthalmic surgeon with over 20 years’ experience in ophthalmology. I am a world-renowned specialist in cornea, cataract and refractive surgery. I’m not only a leading surgeon but also the only dual fellowship trained in corneal diseases in children from reputable institutions in the UK. At Eye Clinic London I work closely with other consultant ophthalmologists, optometrists and orthoptists to achieve the best outcomes for our patients. Our main aim is to make sure our patients get the safest and best treatments available to them. We put your safety before anything else so you can rest assured that if you choose us you will be in the best and safest hands.
