Laser Cataract Treatment in Rhode Island

As we get older, the natural aging process can begin to break down the proteins that make up the lens of the eye. As the proteins degrade (usually after the age of 40), they cause cloudy or blurry spots in vision called cataracts. At Koch Eye Associates, we are proud to offer comprehensive diagnoses and treatments for cataracts, including laser cataract surgery. This surgery utilizes state-of-the-art laser technology to map the surface of your eye to ensure the most precise, efficient incisions. There is no need for a scalpel, and the risk of complications is greatly reduced. To learn more about laser cataract surgery or find out if you are a candidate, schedule a consultation today. We provide comprehensive cataracts evaluations at our locations in Wakefield, Woonsocket, North Kingstown, and Warwick, RI.

In general, anyone in good overall health with cataracts that are no longer manageable with prescription lenses is a potential candidate. However, there are some pre-existing conditions that could limit your eligibility. These include irregular astigmatism and having had previous LASIK surgery. The laser used in cataract surgery could potentially damage the flap created during your LASIK procedure. Patients with regular astigmatism are still potential candidates and can achieve remarkable results. When you come in for your evaluation at Koch Eye Associates, one of our experienced experts will be able to talk to you about any potential issues and explain your best options.

Laser and Traditional cataract surgery is performed at the St. James Surgery Center in Warwick, RI. Before cataract surgery, we make our patients as comfortable as possible by administering three different types of anesthetic eye drops. Laser cataract surgery is very similar to traditional cataract surgery, except state-of-the-art laser technology is used to place and make the incisions with much more precision than handheld implements. The advanced technology can create an extremely detailed map of your eye, which means the lasers can identify the exact location of the cataract.

All of our surgeons use the phacoemulsification technique, which means that the cataract is removed through an incision that is only 1/8 inch in size. Once the incision is made, the cataract lens is broken up with a LenSx® laser, which creates easily dissected segments that can be removed more efficiently. It is then replaced with a new artificial lens. The significant increase in precision allowed by the laser technology means a dramatic reduction in both potential surgical error and recovery time compared with traditional surgery. The surgeons at Koch Eye Associates are all highly trained in creating self-sealing incisions so you will not need to have any sutures.

When the surgeon has completed your procedure, a member of our team will give you detailed aftercare instructions. We do not routinely use an eye patch after surgery so you can begin using your new vision right away. It will be cloudy at first, but as the hours and days pass, you will notice your vision getting better and stronger. 

Our patients are typically given prescription eye drops to use throughout the recovery period. It is extremely important that you do not press on, scratch, rub, or touch your eye at all while it heals. We will also schedule several follow-up appointments to monitor your healing process. These appointments are very important so be sure to attend each one or reschedule as soon as possible if it is necessary to miss one.

Untreated cataracts can significantly affect your vision, as well as your day-to-day life. The specialists at Koch Eye Associates are highly trained in laser cataract surgery, which can greatly improve or restore your vision. If you are interested in laser cataract surgery, we encourage you to contact one of our Rhode Island facilities to schedule a consultation. Our goal is to always improve our patients’ quality of life through dependable, clear vision.