Advanced Laser Cataract Surgery with Astigmatism Correction

Bernard Meyers is almost blind in his right eye, making it critical to for him to have a fully functioning left eye. When his eyesight deteriorated to the point when he could no longer read the newspaper due to a cataract, he consulted Stephen B. Lichtenstein, M.D., a nationally recognized board certified ophthalmologist at Ophthalmic Partners of Pennsylvania.

“Immediately after my advanced laser cataract surgery I noticed a tremendous improvement in my vision,” shared Mr. Meyers. “It was like night and day. I am very happy with the results.”

Cataracts are inevitable. As part of the aging process, a progressive cloudiness covers the lens in the eye, causing blurred vision, poor night vision, halo or bursts around lights, and frequent prescription changes for glasses or contact lenses. This process typically begins after age 40, and visual disturbances commonly become apparent after age 60.

The only treatment is surgery to replace the affected lens. Many people wait until a cataract seriously impacts their daily lives, such as when they can no longer drive or read, as in the case of Mr. Meyers. This may not occur until age 80. Postponing surgery may not the best idea, since one of the most common reasons for falls is poor vision. A fall in the elderly could cause a broken hip, which increases the risk of death. Fortunately, the trend appears to be that more people are having cataract surgery and at younger ages.

Ten thousand baby boomers celebrate their 65^th birthday every day. By 2019, the number of Americans over age 65 is expected to double. As a group, baby boomers are characterized as educated, technically savvy, and health conscious. They are also more likely to take action at the first sign of visual changes. Cataract surgeons are anticipating the increasing number of cataract surgeries that will be required.

With the advent of health care reform, increasing scrutiny is being placed on outcomes and safety. This state-of-the-art laser system was developed specifically for cataract surgery, enabling surgeons to perform the procedure with significantly more precision and control and to correct astigmatism while they’re at it.

Dr. Lichtenstein performs an average of 50 cataract procedures per month using the laser, “The laser eliminates variability, so I get exactly what I plan. The results seen in my patients are better outcomes, fewer complications, and greater patient satisfaction.”

Mr. Meyers was certainly satisfied, “I didn’t expect the procedure to be as easy as it was. It was completely painless. I would have it done again with no hesitation. It changed my world.”

Ophthalmic Partners of Pennsylvania was one of the first in the country to acquire the state-of-the-art “femtosecond” laser in 2011 and the first in the tri-state region. It is the region’s largest multi-specialty ophthalmology practice, providing advanced eye care in the areas of cataract and refractive surgery, cornea and external disease, anterior segment, glaucoma and related disorders, and pediatric ophthalmology. Please call 800-818-8054 or visit http://www.oppdoctors.com/ for more information.