Laser Cataract Surgery near Chicago, IL

At Kirk Eye Center, we are pleased to perform the most specialized diagnosis techniques and treatment options for cataracts, such as laser cataract surgery. Classified as a clouding of the natural lens of the eye, cataracts typically begin to form around and past age 40. Since cataracts are clouded areas within the actual lens, the lens needs to be extracted and substituted with an IOL (intraocular lens) to eliminate the symptoms of the disease. Laser cataract surgery utilizes cutting-edge technology that can chart out the eye's surface to generate a more exact laser incision, significantly minimizing the chances for complications. For cataract surgery patients who also have refractive errors, such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and presbyopia, personalized IOLs are an option that is able to work just like corrective lenses. Schedule a visit with our board-certified team in River Forest or Gurnee, IL to learn more.

Impaired and device-assisted vision has many limitations that can be frustrating to our River Forest, IL patients. Laser cataract surgery at Kirk Eye Center has a number of benefits, including:

• Addresses a number of functional issues, including cataracts and astigmatism
• Frees up your vision from being device-dependent
• Quick, simple procedure done in our office
• Improved overall vision and quality of life

Yes, it can. One of the great benefits of laser cataract surgery is that it can simultaneously correct astigmatism as it treats cataracts. There are generally two ways to correct astigmatism, or an irregular elongated shape to the eye, during laser cataract surgery:

• Limbal relaxing incisions (LRI) – a series of small incisions around the outer edges of the cornea that create a more natural, rounded shape to the eye that corrects astigmatism.
• Toric IOLs (intraocular lenses) – durable synthetic lenses that are permanently implanted into the eyes to replace the natural clouded lens can also correct astigmatism.

If further vision correction is needed after your laser cataract surgery, we may recommend LASIK or PRK surgery.

For the most part, anyone with mid- to late-stage cataracts could be a candidate, assuming they are in generally good physical health. Nevertheless, while laser cataract surgery is definitely effective, the procedure does have some limitations. One is that patients with some types of astigmatism may not be eligible.

Prior to laser cataract surgery, we will thoroughly anesthetize the patient’s eyes with eye drops. Laser cataract surgery is much like traditional cataract surgery except we implement cutting-edge laser technology to decide on the most advantageous incision site, create the incision, and break up the cataract. As soon as the cataract is disintegrated and taken out, the eye surgeon can insert the selected intraocular lens. Due to its exceptional efficiency, laser cataract surgery technology yields excellent results with a shorter recovery downtime than traditional surgery. Both types of cataract surgery are usually short, outpatient treatments, taking 10 – 20 minutes.

The healing period for laser cataract surgery normally ranges from 1 – 2 months, and it is important to follow post-surgery directions during this time. People who undergo laser cataract surgery need to use specific kinds of prescription eye drops for a few weeks of the recovery process, and it is extremely important that they don't rub or scratch the eyes while they recover. We may have patients use an eye patch to prevent this. Typically, vision is greatly improved directly after the procedure, but it still appears blurry for about a week until the inflammation starts to go down.

To even further enhance the results of laser cataract surgery, many patients choose to have premium lenses implanted rather than standard IOLs. This is due to the fact that while traditional IOLs can only provide clear sight at a set distance, premium lenses allow patients to see clearly at short, intermediate, and long distances without the need for contacts or glasses. In many cases, these premium lenses can even correct for astigmatism. To learn more, ask your provider about the benefits of premium lenses before your procedure.

How do I prepare for laser cataract surgery?

Patients should undergo an eye exam to determine if they are a candidate for laser cataract surgery. During a preoperative exam, the specialists at Kirk Eye Center will review your medical history and take some tests to ensure that you are healthy enough for a laser procedure. Our team will then develop a customized treatment plan that fits your needs and goals.

What should I avoid after laser cataract surgery?

After laser cataract surgery, patients should avoid strenuous activities for at least a few days. Patients are also advised to protect their eyes from sunlight and harsh UV rays. Wash your hands frequently and try not to touch or rub your eyes to avoid potential complications like infection. Our goal is to help you have a safe and successful recovery.

Why choose us for laser cataract surgery?

Our River Forest, IL clinic has helped countless people improve their vision without compromising safety or comfort. Our state-of-the-art technology allows us to provide cataract patients with exceptional outcomes in a timely manner. If you're nervous about your upcoming laser surgery, know that we'll be here every step of the way.

What increases my risk for cataracts?

Age is the number one cause of cataracts. As people age, there's a greater chance that their eyes will develop cloudy vision. Cataracts are most common after 40 years old but can also occur due to genetics or exposure to harmful UV rays. Kirk Eye Center can perform an eye assessment to determine if you are at an increased risk for cataracts.

Is laser cataract surgery safe?

Laser surgery is safe and effective in treating cataracts. It's a quick procedure with minimal risk, especially compared to traditional cataract surgery. Our eye care professionals in River Forest and Gurnee, IL, are specially trained in laser cataract surgery, so feel free to ask them any concerns you may have about treatment. We are proud to offer state-of-the-art treatments and technologies.

Which premium IOLs do you recommend?

A premium lens is one that provides customized vision correction for your eyes. There are many premium IOL options available based on your specific vision needs and goals. Our team will confirm whether you have refractive errors like nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism in addition to cloudy vision due to cataracts, then make a personalized recommendation for you.

If ignored, cataracts could significantly impact your daily life and gradually result in a complete loss of vision. Thankfully, through laser cataract surgery at Kirk Eye Center, you could eliminate your cataracts and dramatically improve your eyesight. Our team encourages individuals who have been diagnosed with cataracts to call our River Forest or Gurnee, IL office for a consultation with our experienced team.