Laser Cataract Surgery in Houston & Bellaire, TX

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Laser-assisted cataract surgery is an advanced approach to cataract removal that uses a femtosecond laser to perform key steps of the procedure that have traditionally been done by hand. At Surgical Eye Experts in Bellaire, Geoffrey Collett, MD offers this bladeless option for patients seeking an added level of precision in their cataract surgery.

The femtosecond laser creates detailed 3D imaging of your eye and uses it to plan and execute incisions with computer-guided accuracy. Laser assistance helps us tailor the procedure to your eye and your visual goals. Schedule an evaluation today.

How is laser cataract surgery different from traditional surgery?

The main difference is how the incisions are made. In traditional cataract surgery, the surgeon creates the incisions with a hand-held instrument. In laser-assisted surgery, a femtosecond laser maps the eye and makes those incisions instead, with a level of precision a blade cannot match. The laser can also soften the cloudy lens before removal, which may reduce the ultrasound energy needed to break it apart. In both approaches, Dr. Collett personally performs the surgery and implants your artificial lens (IOL).

Benefits of laser-assisted cataract surgery

Precision: The laser builds a detailed 3D map of your eye and makes incisions to exact, computer-guided dimensions. That accuracy supports precise lens placement and can enhance your visual outcome after recovery.

Gentler on the eye: By pre-softening the cataract, the laser can reduce the ultrasound energy needed to remove it. For some patients, that means less corneal swelling after surgery and a quicker return of clear vision.

Astigmatism correction: The laser can place small, precise incisions on the cornea that help reduce low levels of astigmatism at the same time as your cataract is removed, sharpening vision clarity.

Safety: Cataract surgery is already one of the safest and most commonly performed surgeries. The femtosecond laser adds computer-guided control to key steps, which may further support its excellent safety profile.

A technician preps a patient for their procedure

What to expect on surgery day

Comfort first: You arrive at our own Bellaire surgical suite with a driver. Numbing drops and light sedation keep you comfortable and aware, with no pain.

Laser steps: The femtosecond laser maps your eye in 3D, makes the incisions, and softens the cloudy lens.

Your new lens: Dr. Collett removes the softened cataract and implants your chosen IOL through a small incision.

Home the same day: Your driver takes you home. Most patients can drive themselves to their one-day post-op visit. Your post-op instructions are on our forms page.

Does insurance cover laser cataract surgery?

Traditional cataract surgery is covered by Medicare and most private insurance plans. Laser-assisted (bladeless) surgery is considered an upgrade, so the laser portion of the procedure is an out-of-pocket cost that insurance does not pay. Our surgical counselor will review the exact pricing with you before scheduling, and CareCredit financing is available.

Whichever route you choose, your surgery is performed by the same skilled surgeon. Laser-assisted cataract surgery is not the right fit for everyone - Dr. Collett will examine your eyes and help you decide whether the laser option makes sense for you.

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Want to learn more about cataracts first? Read our blog post 'Clearing the Clouds: A Guide to Understanding Cataracts.'

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Laser Cataract Surgery FAQ

It is an advanced form of cataract surgery in which a femtosecond laser performs specific steps - including the incisions and softening of the cloudy lens - that are done by hand in traditional surgery. The laser works from a detailed 3D map of your eye, adding computer-guided precision to the procedure.

Both approaches are safe and effective, and both are performed by Dr. Collett. The laser adds precision that can benefit certain patients, particularly those with low levels of astigmatism or those choosing premium lenses. Dr. Collett will assess your eyes and recommend the approach best suited to you.

Yes, for low levels of astigmatism. The laser can place small, precise corneal incisions that reduce astigmatism during the same procedure. Higher amounts of astigmatism are usually better addressed with a toric IOL.

Cataract surgery is already among the safest surgeries performed, and the femtosecond laser adds computer-guided control to key steps, which may further support that safety profile. As with any surgery, Dr. Collett will review the risks and benefits with you at your evaluation.

Medicare and most insurance plans cover traditional cataract surgery. The laser-assisted portion is an upgrade paid out of pocket. Our surgical counselor will go over pricing with you, and CareCredit financing is available.

For some patients, yes. Because the laser pre-softens the cataract, less ultrasound energy may be needed to remove it, which can mean less corneal swelling and a quicker return of clear vision. Overall recovery is similar to traditional cataract surgery, with most patients using their eyes normally within a day or two.

Months to years after surgery, the thin capsule that holds your IOL can become cloudy, sometimes called a secondary cataract (although it is not actually a new cataract). A quick in-office YAG capsulotomy restores clear vision.

It depends on the IOL you choose. Standard monofocal IOLs usually require reading glasses or distance glasses. Multifocal and the Light Adjustable Lens aim to reduce dependence on glasses for most activities. We do not promise glasses-independence.

Laser-assisted surgery is not for everyone. Candidacy depends on your eye anatomy, astigmatism, lens choice, and visual goals. Dr. Collett will determine whether the laser option is right for you during a complete evaluation. Call 281-800-1585 or request an evaluation online to schedule yours.

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