What is a Cataract?

Cataract surgery is performed when the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy and daily activities become difficult due to reduced vision. During cataract surgery, the surgeon removes the natural lens and replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The surgeons at Eye Associates Northwest utilize state of the art technology and microsurgical technique to provide safe, quality surgery that is tailored specifically to each patient.

The surgeons at Eye Associates Northwest are pleased to offer the following premium options for our patients:

Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery: Laser-assisted cataract surgery uses a femtosecond laser to make more precise corneal incisions. The outer lens capsule is opened by the laser, and the laser can be used to soften the cataract so that removal is much faster and uses less energy. The femtosecond laser may also make incisions in the peripheral cornea, which helps correct astigmatism (this is called a “LRI”). Overall, the Alcon LenSx laser-assisted procedure eliminates the manual incision steps and uses lasers assisted by computer equipment to perform automated, precise incisions and aid in cataract removal. 

Toric (Astigmatism Correcting) Lens Implant: Toric lenses correct for corneal astigmatism which occurs when the cornea is misshapen. Toric lenses correct vision at a single, fixed distance, but reduce dependency on glasses or contacts to correct for astigmatism. As an example, patients who choose Toric lenses with a set point in the distance will likely only need reading glasses for near / intermediate tasks.

Multifocal Lens Implant: Multifocal lenses correct an extended depth of focus. With this implant, patients can expect visual improvement at all distances: near, intermediate, and distance.

Toric Multifocal Lens Implant: Toric multifocal lens implants are an excellent choice for patients who want a continuous range of vision (near, intermediate, and distance) as well as correction for corneal astigmatism.

Monofocal Lens Implant: Monofocal lenses correct vision at a single, fixed distance and do not correct for astigmatism.

Your surgeon will discuss the best lens implant option with you at your preoperative appointment.