Cataract Surgery
What Is a Cataract?
A cataract is an opacification of the lens, the natural lens of the eye that focuses light onto the retina. With age or due to certain diseases, this lens can become cloudy, thus affecting vision.
Cataracts can affect one or both eyes. The progression of this disease is often slow and easily treatable. Surgical treatment involves replacing the cloudy lens with an intraocular lens.
What Does the Surgery Involve?
Cataract surgery, performed under local anesthesia in a sterile environment, consists of two main steps:
- Removal of the cloudy lens: The surgeon makes a small incision in the cornea and uses ultrasound to emulsify and aspirate the lens.
- Implantation of an intraocular lens: In place of the natural lens, the surgeon inserts an artificial lens (IOL), chosen based on the patient’s visual needs.
The Traditional Method and the Femtosecond Laser Method
There are two main techniques for cataract surgery: classic phacoemulsification and femtosecond laser-assisted surgery. The choice of the most suitable technique depends on various factors, such as the patient’s eye condition, the surgical center’s equipment, and the surgeon’s expertise.
Femtosecond Laser-assisted Surgery
Description
Technique combining a laser for certain steps (incision, capsulorhexis) and phacoemulsification for aspiration.
Advantages
- Enhanced precision
- Decreased ultrasonic energy use
- Reduced reliance on manual dexterity
- Minimized induced astigmatism
Traditional Phacoemulsification
Description
Manual technique using ultrasound to fragment and aspirate the lens.
Advantages
- Well-established technique
- Time-tested procedure
- Lower cost
The CATALYS® Femtosecond Laser in Cataract Surgery: Unparalleled Precision
The femtosecond laser has revolutionized cataract surgery by offering increased precision and safety during the various stages of the procedure.
What Are the Advantages of Femtosecond Laser-assisted Cataract Surgery?
- Improved precision: The incisions and intraocular steps are performed with unparalleled precision compared to traditional techniques.
- Customization: The laser allows for a personalized procedure based on the characteristics of each individual eye.
- Increased post-operative comfort: Patients often report improved comfort after surgery.
- Reduced complications: The risk of complications, such as corneal edema or capsular tears, is decreased.
Thanks to the CATALYS® laser, we can offer our patients a more personalized and precise cataract surgery. This cutting-edge technology optimizes vision, reduces the risk of complications, and ensures better positioning of the intraocular lens. We offer this option to all eligible patients.
What Are my Options?
We offer our patients personalized care from the first signs of cataracts. Even before your initial appointment with the doctor, we offer individual information sessions to help you understand the different surgical options available. Our team of ophthalmologists specializing in cataract surgery practices in both our specialized medical centers (SMCs) and several public hospitals across the province.
Surgery with the implantation of a monofocal lens is fully covered by the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). For optimal visual correction, refractive lenses can be considered, with additional fees applicable depending on the location of the procedure and the choice of lens, whether implanted in an SMC or a hospital.
Why Should I Trust Bellevue Ophthalmology Clinic for my Cataract Surgery?
- A highly experienced medical team
- Minimum waiting time
- Guaranteed surgery date
- One-on-one consultation with a dedicated advisor
- Personalized, efficient, and safe post-operative care
- Wide selection of intraocular lenses
Intraocular Lenses
To help you make the best choice for your cataract surgery, we offer a personalized consultation with one of our intraocular lens consultants. Together, you will explore the different options available to you based on your lifestyle and visual needs. This meeting will allow you to better understand cataracts, available treatments, and select the intraocular lens best suited to your situation.
Important Instructions for Your Cataract Surgery
Ready for your cataract surgery? Here’s what you need to know to ensure a smooth procedure.