Your Cataract Surgery Questions, Answered.
Initially, the subject of cataract surgery may seem a bit cloudy. In fact, that’s appropriate (we’re guessing your vision is a bit cloudy, too). Cataract surgery is a big decision. If you’re here, chances are you’re considering the procedure for yourself or a loved one, but you have a few burning questions left unanswered. Look no further; you’ve come to the right place.
Vance Thompson Vision has taken the most popular questions on cataract surgery and compiled them here with in-depth answers. This way, when the time comes, you’re ready to make an informed decision with confidence.
How long does cataract surgery take?
There are two types of cataract surgery — traditional and advanced. For both procedures, each eye must be done at least one day apart. It takes approximately 15 minutes per eye to replace your natural lens, no matter which procedure you choose.
Recovery takes between one and two days, and your doctor will see you one day, one week, one month, and three months after your surgery to monitor your eyes as you fully heal.
What’s the difference between traditional and advanced cataract surgery?
Traditional
Traditional cataract surgery replaces your cloudy lens with a new, clear lens that focuses at one distance. These implants allow for the sharpest possible vision at the set point — usually distance. Because you have a choice about how you want to use your vision after surgery, it’s important to educate yourself about your options. Explore Vance Thompson Vision’s full range of lens options to see which lens implant can help you achieve your goals.
After you talk with your doctor about how you want to use your vision, your surgeon will help recommend the best lens for your vision goals. If you choose traditional cataract surgery, you will likely need prescription bifocals or readers to help you achieve your best vision after surgery.
Advanced
Advanced cataract surgery is also referred to as “refractive cataract surgery.” Advanced doesn’t refer to the state of the cataracts themselves but instead to the advanced technology and state-of-the-art lens implants. This option gives your surgeon even more control and precision when they replace your cloudy lens with a new, clear one.
Premium lens options offered with advanced cataract surgery recover vision loss due to age and improve overall visual quality. These premium lens options can also reduce dependence on bifocals and readers.
Is cataract surgery considered elective?
Cataract surgery can be medically necessary, and having cataracts removed is important to your overall health and well-being. However, because it is not emergency surgery, you can typically schedule your procedure at a time of your choosing. When cataract surgery is deemed medically necessary by a doctor, Medicare and insurance will cover a portion of the cost. Depending on which lens you select, you may have additional elective fees.
How much does cataract surgery cost?
The cost of cataract surgery varies depending on which surgery you choose — traditional or advanced — and which lens you and your doctor decide is right for you. The final cost can also be affected by your insurance coverage and deductible.
Vance Thompson Vision offers easy payment options to make your laser or implant vision correction experience as smooth and affordable as possible. Ask about your options during the financial counseling portion of your consultation. Our knowledgeable patient counselors will walk you through the financial aspects of surgery to determine the best options for your lifestyle and budget.
Does medicare pay for cataract surgery?
Usually, as long as your doctor determines it’s medically necessary, Medicare covers 80% of the cost for traditional cataract surgery with a monofocal intraocular lens (IOL). Patients are responsible for covering their deductible and copays.
If you prefer advanced cataract surgery with a premium lens implant, the good news is that insurance will still likely cover a portion of those fees. There will be additional costs for the advanced diagnostics, specialized implant, and global after-care. All of your options and any out-of-pocket fees will be discussed at your pre-surgery appointment.
When should cataracts be removed?
If you have been diagnosed with a cataract and your daily activities are impacted by cloudy vision, it might be time for cataract surgery. You can work with your local optometrist to decide when the timing is right for your vision and lifestyle.
Want to learn more about cataract surgery? Vance Thompson Vision has the answers on our cataract surgery page. As leaders in world-class eye care and advanced vision technology, our team performs over 100,000 cataract surgeries each year and has offered world-class care to patients for over 30 years. Schedule an appointment today to see your world clearly.