While there is no prevention for cataracts, our ophthalmologists can typically help you have clearer vision with a brief outpatient procedure. If you have blurred or clouded vision and lens clouding, schedule an appointment with our ophthalmologists to discuss intraocular (IOL) and laser treatment options for cataracts.

There are two methods of cataract surgery available at Shreveport Eye Clinic: phacoemulsification and laser-assisted phacoemulsification. Your eye specialist will discuss these options and help you determine which is right for you.

This modern version of traditional cataract surgery uses smaller incisions, and it has fewer risks and complications than previous methods. Phacoemulsification utilizes an ultrasound device to gently crumble the cloudy lens inside your eye. Those pieces are suctioned out of the capsular bag, and then replaced with a clear intraocular lens to replace the cloudy one. This procedure concludes with the surgeon closing the eye incision, which most often doesn’t require a suture. They’ll cover your eye to keep it protected during the healing process. Recovery can take anywhere from two weeks to one month.

The newest way to remove cataracts involves lasers very similar to those used in corrective LASIK procedures. Although the procedure is very much like phaco surgery, laser-assisted surgeries reduce the need for hand-held tools like surgical blades. The lasers create corneal incisions to the lens, and less energy is required to break up the lens and remove it. This technique can also create peripheral incisions in the cornea to help reduce an astigmatism when necessary.