Cataract and RLE Surgery

CATARACTS

What is a cataract?

The term Cataract is used to describe a natural lens that has turned cloudy.  Cataracts are not a disease, but rather a condition affecting the eye.  As the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, it does not allow light to pass through it as well as it did when it was transparent.  Cataracts usually start as a slight cloudiness that progressively grows more opaque.  They are usually white, but may take on color such as yellow or brown.  As the cataract becomes more mature (increasingly opaque and dense), the retina receives less and less light.  The light that does reach the retina becomes increasingly blurred and distorted.  This causes gradual impairment of vision.  If left untreated, cataracts can cause blindness.  A cataract can only be removed by surgery.

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What are the symptoms of a cataract?

Clouded Cataract Image Clear Normal Vision Image
Clouded Cataract Vision          Normal, Clear Vision

Types of Cataracts

Cataract Surgery is one of the most common operations performed, usually with excellent results.  Generally, cataracts are removed on an out-patient basis.  Most patients could be up and about on the day of surgery, but we encourage our patients to rest their eyes as much as possible.

What causes Cataracts?

Cataracts develop for a number of reasons, but the most common cause is aging.  These Age-related cataracts develop as a result of natural changes within the lens.  In other cases, an injury or blow to the eye may cause a traumatic cataract. Some cataracts may also result from the use of certain drugs, exposure to harmful chemicals or excessive amounts of ultraviolet radiation, or some diseases.  Cataracts are typically slowly progressive but can be rapid in some cases.   In addition, some babies are born with congenital cataracts as a result of unusual prenatal factors.  Some cataracts are simply inherited.  Fortunately, Dr. Cavanaugh is able to remove almost all cataracts and restore vision through modern microsurgery.

How are Cataracts Treated?

Surgery is the only way to improve blurry vision and glare that is due to a cataract.  There are no medications, eye drops, exercises, or glasses that will cause cataracts to disappear or to prevent them from forming.  When cataracts interfere with your vision so that you are no longer able to see well enough to do the things you like to do, cataract surgery should be considered.   Cataract surgery is a pain-free experience thanks to advances in anesthesia.  Patients are numbed with eye drops, not needles, and are peacefully awake during the surgery. 

Advances in “No-Stitch” Cataract Surgery

The surgery is a modern, out-patient procedure.  The stay at an ambulatory surgical center is just a few hours and recovery time after surgery is dramatically reduced.  Many people enjoy improved vision with minimal dependence upon corrective eyewear as a result of modern cataract surgery.

RLE or Cataract surgery is a pain-free experience thanks to advances in anesthesia.  Patients are awake during the surgery and are able to resume most activities shortly afterwards.

Your lens will be removed with an advanced technique called phacoemulsification, or small-incision cataract surgery.  After applying a local anesthetic, a tiny incision of about 1/8” is made in the front part of the eye.  The natural lens is then broken into microscopic particles using ultrasound waves and gently suctioned from the eye.  Then, to compensate for the removal of the natural lens, an intra-ocular lens (IOL) is implanted into the eye.  This type of incision is self-healing, stronger and remains tightly sealed by the natural outward pressure within your eye.

Once removed, cataracts will not grow back.  However, some patients may experience clouding of a thin tissue called the capsule or “bag” that holds the intra-ocular lens (IOL).  If this occurs, a YAG laser is used to painlessly open the clouded capsule and restore clear vision.

“Intraocular Lenses” (IOLs)

Intraocular Lenses or IOLs, are small lenses made of a soft polymer (Silicone or Acrylic) and are implanted inside the eye in place of natural lens. Intended to replace the eye's natural lens following cataract removal, intraocular lens implants (IOLs) are becoming increasingly functional, and the technology involved in this amazing treatment is constantly evolving.   Premium Presbyopia Correcting IOLs offer patients the opportunity to restore their ability to focus at distance and up close without having to depend on reading glasses after cataract surgery. Cavanaugh Eye Center is proud to offer an impressive selection of lens replacement options, including revolutionary ReSTOR, ReZoom and Crystalens premium multifocal implants. If you are interested in learning more about refractive lens implants and how they can help to restore your visual acuity, please contact Cavanaugh Eye Center today.

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RLE (Refractive Lens Exchange)

RLE and cataract surgery are essentially the same procedure. In both procedures, the natural crystalline lens of your eye is removed through a small incision made in your eye and replaced by a man-made Intraocular Lens implant or IOL. The only difference is that RLE is a totally elective procedure done to decrease the need for glasses, while also eliminating existing early cataracts.  Removing the cataract in cataract surgery is done for medical reasons such as blurred vision, glare, or seeing haloes. This procedure is advantageous to those over 45, that may have the early starts of cataracts, or are not ideal LASIK candidates.

How do I know if I am a candidate for RLE or cataract surgery?

You may be a candidate for Refractive Lens Exchange if you:

How is RLE or Cataract Surgery Done?

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IOL Calculation with the IOL MASTER

IOLs come in different sizes and configurations. In order to choose the best type of IOL, a measurement is a performed. The length of the eye is determined with an A-Scan, the same type of equipment used in fetal ultrasound-only on a much smaller scale. Cavanaugh Eye Center uses the most modern ultrasound device available, the IOL Master because minute differences in the measurement have a substantial impact on the IOL calculation.

Despite the wonderful advances with cataract surgery, it is also important to realize that the main goal of cataract surgery is to make you see better. Every effort will be made to reduce or eliminate your need for glasses; however, some patients will still need to use vision correction. It is important to realize that a 0.3 mm difference in A-scan measurement is equals to one diopter of glasses refraction. To put that measurement in context, 0.3-mm is less than the thickness of the letters on this page. Cavanaugh Eye Center uses IOL Master, the most precise and finest technology for A-scan measurement to provide you the best possible care.

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Premium IOL Implants

At Cavanaugh Eye Center, we are always excited to introduce new, breakthrough technologies to complement the extensive range of vision correction procedures.  As a leading corneal specialist, Dr. Timothy Cavanaugh is continually investigating the latest, most promising advances in vision restoration, integrating the most effective of these into his practice.

Cataract surgery has undergone tremendous technological advances since the days of your parents and grandparents.  The good news is that you've encountered cataracts at a time when intraocular lens technology has taken a giant leap forward.  No longer is the objective to simply restore your distance vision with a monofocal IOL.  Today, the goal is to enhance your vision, thus minimizing your dependence on glasses, including reading glasses or bifocals. 

For most cataract and RLE patients, life without reading glasses or bifocals is something they either experienced before presbyopia or they just dreamed about for most of their lives.  But today, premium IOLs such as ReStor, ReZoom™, and Crystalens are turning those dreams into reality with revolutionary lens technology, which is designed to allow patients to see clearly at all distances without bifocals or reading glasses.

What is Presbyopia?

Presbyopia is an inevitable age-related eye condition that makes it difficult to read or see objects up-close without the use of reading glasses. Presbyopia is the first sign of cataracts and is the most prevalent eye condition in America. It causes the crystalline lens to increasingly stiffen, lose flexibility and cloud, diminishing its focusing ability.

 

 

 

 

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Multifocal IOLs

ReSTOR® Aspheric

The AcrySof ReSTOR Aspheric IOL (intraocular lens) gives people the ability to see near, far or in between, often freeing people from the need for glasses. Cataracts aren't uncommon; they're a natural part of the aging process for many people. Previous IOLs used to replace cataracts were either limited to middle-vision or monovision, meaning a person could only see in the middle ranges or had to have one eye focused for near and the other for distance vision.

The ReSTOR lens is revolutionary because it is a permanent lens that provides for the full range of vision with little or no need for glasses or other corrective lenses. After anesthetic eye drops have been applied to the eye, the surgeon makes a small incision. An instrument is then used to dissolve the clouded lens and the ReSTOR lens is inserted. Because no stitches are used and the eye heals itself, the procedure is virtually pain free and recovery is fast.

This lens is revolutionary because it allows for all-distance vision. It is tapered from the center to the outside to allow a smooth transition of light, be it from near, far or in-between focal points. After surgery, four out of five patients reported never wearing glasses. And 94% were so satisfied that they'd do it all again. 

ReZoom™

The AMO ReZoom™ IOL (intra-ocular lens) is different from previous lenses for the treatment of cataracts. Rather than providing monovision (single-distance vision), the ReZoom™ lens gives people the ability to see near, far or in between, often freeing them from the need for glasses.

The ReZoom™ lens is revolutionary because it has five different zones, each of which is designed for different light conditions and focal distances. Cataracts are a natural part of the aging process for many people and the ReZoom™ lens can treat cataracts with or without presbyopia, or “over 40 vision.”

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Crystalens HD - the Accommodating or "Focusing" IOL

Crystalens HD IOL

Are you tired of wearing bifocals and reading glasses? Cavanaugh Eye Center has the solution for you!

Introducing Crystalens         

New surgical technology at Cavanaugh Eye Center, Crystalens can restore good vision to most people who wear bifocals and reading glasses. Today, you may be able to see near, far and everywhere in between — as well as you did in your 20s and 30s. Read the newspaper, work on your computer and look off in the distance — all without the need for glasses, bifocals or contact lenses.

Previous generations of intraocular lenses were not capable of responding to your eyes' muscles and could only provide you with a single-distance focus. Consequently, glasses or contact lenses were necessary for near or middle vision. Or during your Cataract surgery, your doctor had to focus one of your eyes for distance-vision and one for near-vision. Crystalens will give you a full range of vision by responding to your eyes' muscles and moving accordingly without glasses or contact lenses. Your eyes could focus at near, arm-length, or far distances.

The two-year FDA clinical study of Crystalens reported:

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Can you correct my Astigmatism?

AcrySof® Toric IOL for Astigmatism

Until recently, cataract sufferers with astigmatism had few options for restoring vision back to a level that eliminates glasses or contacts from everyday life. Now, there's an intraocular lens (IOL) that has been created specifically for individuals with astigmatism. This advanced technology is called the AcrySof Toric Lens, and it has the power to deliver excellent all-around vision, including distance.

 

 

Benefits

Effectiveness

In recent FDA trials, patients implanted bilaterally with Toric IOLs reported the following:

Limbal Relaxing Incisions (LRI)

If appropriate, Dr. Cavanaugh may perform limbal relaxing incisions (LRI) to treat low to moderate degrees of astigmatism in conjunction with cataract surgery. Dr. Cavanaugh makes small relaxing incisions at the very edge of the cornea (in the limbus), which restores the cornea to a more spherical shape when it heals reducing visual distortions associated with astigmatism and potentially improving the patient's uncorrected vision.  LRI is one of several procedures Dr. Cavanaugh can combine with laser vision correction procedures and cataract surgery as part of a comprehensive vision restoration plan.

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New Medicare Policy

Seniors Have Access to ReSTOR, ReZoom™, and Crystalens Premium Lens Technology at Cavanaugh Eye Center   

Seniors on Medicare now can choose the premium presbyopia-correcting  ReSTOR, ReZoom™, and Crystalens lenses, which treat two conditions: cataract removal with lens replacement (a procedure covered by Medicare) and presbyopia (a non-covered service). Patients who select premium multifocal IOLs will receive the standard Medicare reimbursement for cataract surgery, and can now pay privately for the presbyopic portion of their treatment.

“This Medicare policy change means that patients now have a choice in their vision correction that best suits their individual lifestyle. It also gives us the option of offering premium IOL technology for improving both vision and lives for our Medicare patients,” says Dr. Timothy B. Cavanaugh.

To find out if you're a candidate forReSTOR, ReZoom™, or Crystalens, call today at (913) 897-9200.

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Your RLE or Cataract Surgery Experience

1) Pre Operative Surgery Care

During your preoperative examination, Dr. Cavanaugh will help you decide which IOL implant type and power is right for you and your lifestyle.   There are two types of IOLs; each is designed for a specific type of function.  Monofocal lenses provide correction in one segment of your visual range, whereas Multifocal lenses such as the ReStor, ReZoom™, and Crystalens lenses are available to correct your distance and near vision. Intraocular lenses are made out of inert materials acrylic or silicone materials and should last indefinitely. They have been safely implanted for over five decades!  Dr. Cavanaugh and the staff will then discuss the risks, benefits, complications, and alternatives of surgery. They will answer all of your questions and do their best to alleviate all of your concerns.

2) On the Day of Your Surgery

You need to arrive at the outpatient Deer Creek Surgical Suite no later than 45 minutes prior to the procedure. This affords the staff sufficient time to get you prepared for the procedure. You are given drops to dilate the eye and medications for relaxation. Cataract surgery usually takes about 10-15 minutes, but patients should expect to be at the facility for about one or two hours.

An anesthesiologist will be present during cataract surgery to administer intravenous medication through an arm vein to help you be comfortable. In addition, anesthetic drops are placed in the eye to eliminate pain or discomfort. This is called “topical anesthesia.”  In some instances, a local injection, or (Peri-Bulbar Block) is given that numb the area of the eye and prevent movement during surgery.

3) The Procedure

Cataract surgery is one of the safest, most effective types of surgery.  It is also one of the most successful.   Cataract surgery is safe and effective and is performed in our Deer Creek Surgical Center outpatient location. During cataract surgery, the cloudy natural crystalline lens is removed and replaced with an implant or intraocular lens or (IOL). 

Instrument removing lens materialCataract surgery is performed with an operating microscope that magnifies the image of the eye, giving Dr. Cavanaugh the ability to remove the cataract with precision.  After adequate anesthesia is administered to calm and relax the patient, a small 2-3mm incision is made in the cornea.  This incision is so small that it seals without sutures in 99% of cases.   A round opening, a capsulorhexis, is made in the outer coating of the lens (the lens capsule). He will then use the newest Alcon Ozil phacoemulsification technology which is an ultrasound vacuum to remove the clouded cataract in a precisely controlled manner from its outer shell called the capsule.  After all of the inner lens components are removed, there is an empty capsular bag.

The intraocular lens implant (IOL) is then inserted into the capsular bag providing a clear focusing pathway for light and is intended to stay in the eye forever.. This implant is carefully calculated by Dr. Cavanaugh using the IOL Master and tailored to each patient's needs, nearsightedness and farsightedness can be corrected at the same time as the cataract is removed thereby significantly reducing or eliminating the need for glasses.  Since the incision remains small, there is no need for stitches or a patch at the conclusion of the surgery. 

Since Dr. Cavanaugh is also a LASIK refractive surgeon, he strives to obtain the best possible vision for his patients without glasses in every case. 

4) Lens Replacement

Clear IOL is injected into eyeTraditionally, lenses used in cataract surgery have been monofocal, allowing the user to see well at a single distance. Patients with monofocal lenses generally choose to have their natural lenses replaced with lenses that allow them to see well at distance and wear reading glasses for up close or intermediate work. Recent advancements in lens implant technology, however, have resulted in the development of multifocal implants or accommodating lenses.  These exciting new style lenses allow the patient to focus at different distances, giving good distance vision, plus improvement in intermediate or near vision. RLE can minimize your dependence on reading glasses or bifocals, but even with the newer multi-focal or accommodating lenses, glasses may be needed in certain situations.

5) After Cataract Surgery

After the procedure, you'll be given a short time to rest.  Then, the same day, you can go home.  Within the next 24 hours, your doctor will probably want to see you for a post operative examination.  Drops will be prescribed against infection, inflammation and pain to help your eyes heal.  For a couple of days, you may need to wear a clear protective shield at night to protect you from rubbing or bumping your eye.   You will be given specific post operative cataract surgery medication schedule to use over the next month.

As one of the nation's most respected and accomplished corneal specialists, Dr. Timothy Cavanaugh modern microsurgical techniques provide for a true modern day miracle, that restores sight to most cataract patients. It is no longer necessary to give up activities such as reading and driving due to cataracts.  Over the past twenty years, Dr. Cavanaugh has performed over 20,000 Laser refractive, and cataract procedures. Through ongoing training in the latest techniques and a commitment to using only the most current technologies, Dr. Cavanaugh is able to perform cataract surgery that is entirely focused on the comfort and ultimate satisfaction of his patients.

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YAG Laser Posterior Capsulotomy

Some patients will develop clouding of the capsular bag in which the lens was inserted. This is called posterior capsular opacification which occurs in about 30% percent of patients usually months to years after the original cataract surgery. The usual symptoms are diminished visual acuity or glare.

Posterior capsular opacification is easily remedied with a brief, painless laser treatment. The laser treatment is called a YAG capsulotomy. This procedure is performed in the office and takes about five minutes. Patients can return to full vocational and recreational activities immediately.  The procedure is actually among the safest and most consistently effective in all of ophthalmology, with complications occurring in less than 0.5% of patients.

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Cataract / RLE Surgery FAQs

When does the vision become normal?

After the surgery, you will notice an immediately improvement, but your vision may be blurry. The healing eye needs time to adjust so that it can focus properly with the other eye, especially if the other eye has a cataract. This healing period may take several weeks. How long it will be before you can see normally depends on the vision in your other eye, the lens you choose, your refractive target, and your vision before surgery. With an IOL, for example, you may notice that colors have a blue tinge, and that after you've been in bright sunlight, everything is reddish for a few hours. It doesn't take long to adjust to these changes.

Is cataract surgery done with a laser?

Contrary to popular belief, today's state-of-the-art cataract surgery is not done with a laser. The surgery is typically accomplished by a process called phacoemulsification that employs advanced ultrasound technology.

However, lasers are used to “clean” the IOL if it becomes necessary. The lens capsule (the part of the eye that holds the IOL in place) sometimes becomes cloudy several months or years after the original cataract operation. If this cloudy capsule begins to cause blurry vision, your doctor can perform a procedure, called a posterior capsulotomy in our office. During this procedure, a YAG laser is used to make an opening in the cloudy lens capsule, restoring normal vision.

No sedation is required for a posterior capsulotomy. The procedure literally takes a few minutes and requires no stitches or restrictions afterwards. Most patients recover their normal vision within hours of this procedure.

Is cataract surgery successful?

The success rate of cataract surgery is excellent. Improved vision is achieved in the vast majority of patients if other vision-limiting problems are not present.

There are, however, cases in which even successful cataract surgery does not improve vision as much as we would like. This is usually due to other eye problems such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy. Even with these problems, cataract surgery may still be worthwhile.

Your doctor will counsel you on your chances of improving vision with cataract surgery and what, if any vision limiting factors might be present on your exam.

How are cataracts treated?

The only way to treat cataracts is to remove the eye's natural lens. In the past, cataract surgery meant that patients had to resolve themselves to a lifelong reliance on thick, high-prescription lenses in order to see even reasonably well. At Cavanaugh Eye Center however, cataract surgery is simply the first step toward visual independence. In fact, many patients who come to our practice for cataract surgery end up with better, clearer vision than they had ever thought possible with comfortable and quick healing time.

How is RLE different than cataract surgery?

RLE and cataract surgery are essentially the same procedure. In both procedures, the natural crystalline lens of your eye is removed through a small incision made in your eye and replaced by a man-made lens implant. The only difference is that RLE is a totally elective procedure done to decrease the need for glasses, while also eliminating existing early cataracts.  Removing the cataract in cataract surgery is done for medical reasons such as blurred vision, glare, or seeing haloes.

How do I know if I am a candidate for RLE or cataract surgery?

You may be a candidate for Refractive Lens Exchange if you:

  • Over the age of 45 and having difficulty focusing on objects up close.
  • Do not qualify as a candidate for laser vision correction, (i.e. LASIK), because you are either too farsighted or too nearsighted, have thin corneas or severe dry eye
  • Tired of wearing bifocals or progressives to correct your reading and distance vision
  • If you already have cataracts starting to form, RLE may make a lot of sense. If you are already presbyopic, RLE may be a better alternative. There is little need to have surgery affecting the cornea if within a short period of time you will be having cataract surgery anyway or you already cannot change focus from distance to near.

You may be a candidate for cataract surgery if you:

  • Experiencing decreased or blurred vision, glare and halos, impaired depth perception, and increased color distortion
  • Are having blurred vision even with your new glasses
What are the symptoms of a cataract?

Because cataracts form in different ways, the symptoms of cataracts are variable. Most people notice that their vision gradually deteriorates -- objects may begin to look yellow, hazy, blurred or distorted. Many people also find that they need more light to see clearly, or that they experience glare or haloes from lights at night. Other common problems include increasing nearsightedness, double vision out of one eye, or the appearance of dark spots or shadows in the vision.  In advanced cases, the cataract may be visible as a white or yellow-looking pupil.

When should I have cataract surgery?

Most people have plenty of time to decide about cataract surgery. Your doctor cannot make the decision for you, but talking with your doctor can help you decide.   Most people elect for cataract surgery when they experience visual limitations for their lifestyle.

Tell your doctor how your cataract affects your vision and your life. Read the statements below, see which ones apply to you, and tell your doctor if:

  • I have trouble driving at night due to glare from headlights.
  • I have difficulty functioning at work and home because of my blurry vision. .
  • I do not see well enough to do things I like to do (i.e. Driving and seeing road signs, reading, watching TV, sewing, going for walks, playing cards, and going out with friends).
  • I am afraid I will fall or bump into things.
  • I am not as independent as I would like to be.
  • My glasses aren't providing good enough vision.

You may also have other specific problems you want to discuss with your eye doctor.

This is an example of modern acrylic foldable IOL.
The actual lens is about one-third the size of a dime.

Will I ever get another cataract again?

A cataract cannot ever return because the original lens has been removed. However, approximately 40% of all people who have cataract surgery or phacoemulsification develop a lens capsule opacity (the thin tissue bag that holds the replacement lens becomes cloudy).  This cloudiness can develop months or years after surgery. It can cause the same vision problems as the original cataract.

What is a YAG Capsulotomy?

The treatment for this condition is a procedure called a YAG Laser Capsulotomy.  The doctor uses a YAG laser (light) beam to make a small opening in the capsule through which light can pass unimpeded. The quick 5 minute surgery is a painless outpatient procedure. Most people see well after a YAG Laser Capsulotomy.

What are the benefits of cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery restores quality vision for millions of patients each year. Good vision is vital to an enjoyable lifestyle. Numerous research studies show that cataract surgery restores quality-of-life functions including reading, working, moving around, hobbies, safety, self-confidence, independence, daytime and nighttime driving, community and social activities, mental health, and overall life satisfaction.

Will it treat my Astigmatism?

There are actually brand new intraocular Toric lens implants which correct astigmatism.  Depending on which lens implant you and your surgeon choose, Dr. Cavanaugh can also do a minor procedure called an LRI or (limbal relaxing incision), during the time of your cataract surgery to improve and eliminate your astigmatism to assure the best possible vision potential if you choose the Toric astigmatism correcting lens implant.  Since it is an elective procedure, medical insurance does not cover the astigmatism corrective procedure.  Insurance DOES cover the cataract removal portion but NOT the astigmatism correction portion.  The alternative to astigmatism correction with an incision is correction with glasses or contact lenses.

Also, the FDA has approved use of the first only single piece acrylic Acrysof Toric lens implant which provides precise astigmatic correction that reduces or eliminates astigmatism and delivers distance-vision spectacle freedom for cataract or RLE patients with pre-existing astigmatism.  This new lens also has UV and blue light proprietary filters to better shield your eyes from harmful rays of UV radiation.

How long does the surgery take?

RLE and cataract surgery takes about 10-15 minutes. You'll need to plan to be at the surgery center for approximately 2 hours, however, to accommodate the pre-op preparation and post-op recovery period. Our new Deer Creek Surgical Center has closer-to-door drive up service you can comfortably have someone drive you home after the procedure.

Is the procedure painful?

Patients experience virtually no discomfort during RLE or cataract surgery.  In most cases your surgery can be done with topical anesthetic using a numbing gel.  For certain patients and for more difficult cases, a local block can be done that provides a deeper level of anesthesia.  Both are safe and eliminate the risk associated with general anesthesia.  If you have a block, a patch will be required for 3-4 hours.  With the topical technique, no patch is required.  Mild discomfort for the first 24 hours is typical.

Will both eyes be treated at the same time?

No, only one eye will be treated at a time. The second eye can be treated approximately 1-2 weeks after the first eye has healed and stabilized.

Will I still have to wear glasses?

Whether you will need to wear glasses or contacts after your procedure depends on which type of lens you choose to implant. Patients who choose to implant monofocal lenses will have to wear glasses for either distance or up close work, since monofocal lenses are designed to focus only at one distance. Patients who choose to implant multifocal lenses will have a broader range of vision.

Does insurance pay for Cataract or RLE surgery?

RLE is an elective procedure not covered by most insurance companies. It is more expensive than laser vision correction because it must be performed in an ambulatory surgical center. Since cataract surgery is a medical procedure, insurance companies and Medicare will pay for the surgery and the implantation of a monofocal lens. If you choose a multifocal or accommodating lens like the ReStor, ReZoom™ lens, or Crystalens, however, you will have to pay for the additional cost of the lens upgrade.

Your employer's flexible spending or cafeteria plan may offer tax advantages for RLE or cataract surgery upgrades. We can help you understand your options and what questions to ask your benefits administrator. In addition, Cavanaugh Eye Center offers several different payment options to help make RLE and lens upgrade fit your budget.

What are the Risks and Complications of the surgery?

The cataract surgery is a 10 to 15 minute outpatient procedure done under local anesthetic.  The success rates are 98 to 99%.  No surgery, however, is fool proof, and there are always risks associated with surgery.  The risks with cataract surgery that can lead to permanent loss of vision are rare and typically less than a 1% chance.  These include:

  • Retinal detachment.
  • Bleeding or hemorrhage during surgery.
  • Intraocular infection (endophthalmitis) after surgery.
  • Corneal swelling.
  • Macular or retinal swelling (cystoid macular edema)

The surgery is performed out our outpatient Deer Creek Ambulatory Surgery Center that is dedicated to ophthalmic surgery only with state of the art equipment and well-trained nurses. 

What if I am taking FLOMAX or prostate medications?

If you are taking Flomax for prostate conditions, you must let your surgeon know so that they may take precautions due to a condition known as (Floppy Iris Syndrome).  Men taking Flomax for prostate conditions develop a loose floppy iris tissue which can cause complications during cataract surgery.  These problems can be avoided with precautions if we have prior knowledge of your use of Flomax or other prostate medications.

May I be co-managed with my optometrist?

You may have been referred by your Primary Eye Care Provider for surgical care at our practice.  Dr. Cavanaugh will perform the surgery but if you would prefer, your local eye doctor can assume the postoperative care at the 1-day, 1-week or 1-month juncture.  This will allow you to have your postoperative care closer to home and your local doctor will communicate your postoperative results to Dr. Cavanaugh.  If there are any concerns, Dr. Cavanaugh may ask to see you personally. 

If you elect to see Dr. Cavanaugh for your postoperative visits, then after surgical healing, you will be returned to your regular eye doctor and any eyeglasses or contact lenses will be prescribed by him or her. 

Where is the surgery done?

Most of our Cataract and RLE surgeries will be done at the brand new Medicare approved Deer Creek Ambulatory Surgical Center. 

What is the cost?

You'll also need to think about cost. Cataract surgery is covered by Medicaid, Medicare, and virtually all health insurance plans. The traditional IOL implants are fully covered as well, since insurers view these lens replacements as medically necessary. But the newer implants – such as ReStor, ReZoom™andCrystalens – are not currently covered (even if the procedure is), because they cost more and because their special features tend to be viewed by insurers as "very nice to have" but not absolutely necessary. Medicare will reimburse the surgical facility for the cost of a traditional IOL, and the patient will be responsible for the difference.

When figuring cost, also take into account the reading glasses or contact lenses if you opt for single-vision IOLs or if for some reason your multifocal IOLs don't satisfy your need for crisp vision at all distances.

What research is being done?

The National Eye Institute is conducting and supporting a number of studies focusing on factors associated with the development of age-related cataract. These studies include:

  • The effect of sunlight exposure, which may be associated with an increased risk of cataract.
  • Vitamin supplements, which have shown varying results in delaying the progression of cataract.
  • Genetic studies, which show promise for better understanding cataract development.

Cataract Post-Op Instructions

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Medications

For the first week:

After the one week visit:

Week 2 – three times a day
Week 3 – two times a day
Week 4 – once a day
Week 5 – stop

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What to Expect in the first month

Restrictions:

YAG Capsulotomy Medication Schedule

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Medications

For the first week:

What to Expect in the first month

Restrictions

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For more information on cataract surgery, contact our Overland Park practice, convenient to Kansas City and the surrounding region.






Cavanaugh Eye Center

6200 W. 135th St., Suite 300
Overland Park, KS 66223

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P / 913-897-9200
P / 866-997-9200 Toll Free
F / 913-897-9233