LASIK surgery can be a great option for someone who doesn’t want to deal with contacts or glasses anymore. Not only is the hassle of corrective lenses gone, so is the long-term expense that comes with the annual or bi-annual replacement of glasses and/or buying disposable contact lenses every few months. For someone with cataracts, however, the question is if LASIK is possible. The general rule is that the procedure isn’t recommended for people with cataracts, but this doesn’t mean that there aren’t any exceptions.
Congenital Cataracts and LASIK
The main exception to the “cataracts means no LASIK” rule is the congenital cataract. A congenital cataract is one that appears when born. The natural lens is cloudy, which can interfere with vision to an extent. Cataract surgery can be performed to correct the issue. For a person to have LASIK with a congenital cataract, the cataract must be stable and should not significantly affect vision. Other factors are considered, such as size and the best visual acuity with corrective lenses. The only way to know if you are a candidate for LASIK is to have an eye exam. Your doctor can tell you if you are a good candidate, despite the presence of a congenital cataract or any type of stable cataract.
Age-Related Cataracts
If your cataracts are age-related, they aren’t stable. They get worse with time to the point that vision becomes seriously affected. The longer a cataract remains, the harder it is going to be to deal with surgically. This is why it is important to have a cataract removed at the recommended time.
If you want to correct your vision in as many ways as possible, the good news is that it is possible to have the cataract removed and other issues resolved at the same time. This multi-corrective approach is made possible with premium intraocular lenses that replace the natural lens of the eye. The result is significantly better vision that improves the quality of life and the way you see the world around you.
Ask about Your Options
It is very important that you ask about your options when you have your comprehensive eye exam. You will find that there are alternatives to traditional LASIK and that you may be a candidate when you didn’t think it was possible. Although there are many considerations, one big one to think about is cost. Some insurance companies will cover the cost of cataract surgery, but they won’t cover the cost of surgeries they feel are unnecessary or elective, such as LASIK. While this may result in an out-of-pocket expense, the cost gives you the added benefit of not having to rely on corrective lenses. This can save thousands of dollars long term, allowing you to recoup any out-of-pocket expenses for the surgery. There is also the fact that you are going to be much more comfortable, with the convenience of your eyes doing all the seeing for you.
If you are interested in LASIK, but you have cataracts or have had previous cataracts surgery, be sure to contact Loden Vision Centers in Nashville for you consultation!
