The Difference Between LASIK and Cataract Surgery:
LASIK reshapes the outer layer of the eye (cornea) to change the way the eye focuses light on the retina. In contrast, cataract surgery is a treatment applied to the lens of the eye. The natural lens becomes cloudy for cataract patients making their vision blurry or fuzzy. During surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens (intraocular lens) IOL.
LASIK typically is performed on both eyes in the same session, while cataract surgery is typically performed on two separate days a week apart for the right and left eyes. LASIK is not reimbursed by most all insurance. However, a flexible savings account (FSA) or Health Savings Account (HSA) can be used as well as CareCredit for those who qualify.
On the other hand, most standard cataract surgery is covered by insurance and Medicare. You can pay for advanced cataract lenses if you want to reduce your need for glasses, fix astigmatism or have mono/blended vision.
Can I have LASIK after cataract surgery? Yes, LASIK or PRK would be performed on the cornea to correct the small amount of defocus left after cataract surgery. However, this combination procedure occurs less as the technology for advanced IOLs has improved and there is less chance that the patient’s vision is not perfectly corrected by cataract surgery.
Leading Ophthalmic surgeon, Dr. Neil Griffin provides world class surgical technologies and advanced vision diagnostics for LASIK and cataract surgery to the North Carolina and South Carolina areas. Griffin Eye Center offers the latest Lenses in advanced cataract surgery. We also continue to be at the forefront with the most advanced lasers for LASIK surgery. We offer more options for laser vision correction and provide the only on-site LASIK suite in the local region. Free LASIK Screenings are available at our Myrtle Beach location.
For more information visit griffineyecenter.com or call 843-449-6414.