- Get rid of cloudly vision.
- Better nighttime vision improves driving and other activities.
- Improved independence for a better quality of life.
- Reduced risk of falls and accidents.
- Eliminate or greatly reduce your need for glasses and contacts because our wide selection of cataract Multi-focal Lenses (IOLs) correct both nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
- Precisely fine-tune your vision with Advanced Light Adjustable Lenses – Dr. Chus is one of only a handful of surgeons offering LAL in Minnesota.
- Get the best lens for your unique eyes and vision needs with one of the widest ranges of lens options in Minneapolis.
- Easy day surgery with no need to go to the hospital because our accredited ambulatory surgical center is next door to the clinic.
BASIC VS. MODERN CATARACT SURGERY
Board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Ralph Chu is proficient in both basic manual and modern laser cataract surgeries and can decide which treatment is most effective for patients by providing comprehensive exams and full analyses of their medical histories. The major difference between the two surgeries is that the basic surgery is done with handheld surgical tools, whereas the laser method is principally done via state-of-the-art laser technology.
HOW IS MODERN LASER CATARACT SURGERY PERFORMED?
About an hour before modern refractive cataract surgery, a member of our team will fully numb the patient’s eyes with specialized eye drops. Laser cataract surgery is very similar to manual cataract surgery, except we employ innovative femtosecond lasers. This remarkable technology graphs an extremely detailed map of the eye; therefore, the lasers can find the precise site of the cataract and soften it before breaking it up into several tiny pieces. At this point, these pieces are suctioned out of the eye, and a small incision is made to replace the preexisting lens with a multifocal intraocular lens (IOL).
Unlike many other cataract surgeries, refractive cataract surgery is unique in that it permanently enhances the shape of the cornea. This allows light to seamlessly bend and reach the retina in the correct manner. A properly shaped cornea can solve numerous ocular issues, such as astigmatism, nearsightedness, and farsightedness.
Due to its unique precision, modern laser cataract surgery technology offers exceptional results with a quicker healing process than basic manual surgery. Laser cataract surgery is a quick outpatient procedure lasting about 10-20 minutes. This makes it perfect for anyone hoping to correct their vision without prolonged pain or taking significant time off of work.
RECOVERY AFTER MODERN LASER CATARACT SURGERY
The recovery time for modern cataract surgery normally ranges from 4 – 8 weeks; however, it varies from patient to patient. During the recovery process, you’ll need to stick to strict aftercare directions to foster the best possible results. You will also be advised to use a few types of prescription eye drops throughout the healing period, and it is crucial not to press on or touch the eyes for any reason while they get better. We may also require some patients to wear an eye patch for a while.
We will have you come back for a few follow-up evaluations, so Dr. Chu can monitor your recovery and make sure your vision is improving on schedule. For the majority of our patients, vision is noticeably improved right after the procedure, but it stays cloudy for a few days until the post-surgery inflammation starts to decrease. Some patients report seeing halos or glares around lights, but this tends to decrease over time. In general, patients are able to enjoy significantly clearer vision with less dependence on eyeglasses.
HOW IS BASIC MANUAL CATARACT SURGERY PERFORMED?
Considered to be both incredibly safe and exceptionally dependable, basic cataract surgery, called phacoemulsification (fak-oh-i-muhl-suh-fi-kay-shuhn), is among the most routinely conducted procedures around the globe.
Dr. Chu performs basic cataract surgery as an outpatient treatment that generally lasts around ten minutes per eye. As in modern laser cataract surgery, the patient is under “conscious sedation” during treatment; however, the eyes are totally numbed prior to starting the surgery to offer complete comfort and most people do not remember the procedure taking place. Many patients are very surprised at how easy and painless the surgery is.
Once the patient is ready, Dr. Chu will secure a ring or suction device over each eye that hinders any movement during the surgery. Then, he will manually create a three-millimeter incision at the edge of the cornea. After this, he will utilize a separate device to reach the lens through the incision. This device breaks apart the clouded lens using ultrasonic waves so it can be easily removed and replaced with an IOL through the same incision. We can perform basic cataract surgery with a variety of IOLs, including the PanOptix multifocal lens or Light Adjustable Lens. The incision is so tiny that it doesn’t need stitches and will heal smoothly on its own.
RECOVERY AFTER BASIC MANUAL CATARACT SURGERY
After the procedure, our staff will provide thorough aftercare directions to ensure optimal recuperation. We will let you know when to use any necessary anti-inflammatory eye drops, whether an eye bandage will be needed, advice on sleeping without bumping or touching the eyes, and not doing certain strenuous tasks. It is typical for basic cataract surgery patients to deal with a degree of distorted vision for an hour or two after the procedure, but this is just an acclimation process as your eyes adjust to the implanted lens. It is also possible to develop red scleral tissue and some slight bruising that looks like a black eye for 5 – 7 days after the procedure. Dr. Chu will have you return to Chu Vision Institute the next day for your initial follow-up assessment. Additional visits may be needed, depending on the speed of your recovery.
SAY GOODBYE TO CATARACTS
At Chu Vision Institute, our approach to vision care and eye health is simple. We first take the time to understand life from your unique perspective. By utilizing top technologies and techniques to treat cataracts, we can provide you with improved eyesight. If you have cataracts or have experienced changes in your vision, contact our Twin Cities practice to arrange an evaluation with Dr. Chu and learn more about basic, modern, and lifestyle cataract surgery and other treatment options.