Many of us feel that our eyesight is the most precious of all of our senses. How beautiful is it to look into the eyes of a child, to see the sunrise or sunset in brilliant color. Watching plays, movies, TV or simply reading a book are all things we value greatly. When a cataract develops, it interferes with our ability to enjoy these things. Even more devastating, vision loss from cataract or other causes can take away our independence, making it impossible to drive to work, the grocery store, or to visit a friend or family member.
Cataracts are a major cause of preventable blindness, and yet many people aren’t sure what a cataract is or how it is treated. When surgery is needed, not all cataract surgeons possess the same skill, nor do they have the same success rate. Modern technology is critical to successful cataract surgery and lasers have superseded blades as the safest and preferred method for cataract surgery.
Technology, and surgeon skill are incredibly important factors in surgical outcomes. Think back to the technology that we had 20 years ago. I remember back then, my cell phone came with a suitcase to house all of the required electronics. Now, cell phones are compact and possess such great advances in capabilities. One would never think about going back to the technology of 20 years ago, when there was no Internet!
Yet, many surgeons continue to perform cataract surgery with the same old techniques and technology that is 20 years old. We now have the capability with skillful microsurgical techniques, lasers, advanced measuring devices and the latest technology in intraocular lenses to not just remove a cataract, but to do it in such a way as to minimize one’s need for glasses. The Cataract Refractive Suite incorporates the Bladeless Laser Cataract surgical technique into a system of highly advanced measuring and surgical planning devices such as VERION, ORA, along with the Centurion system that has the most advanced fluidics in the world to make cataract surgery ever more safe.
Our commitment to you at Frantz EyeCare is to stay on the cutting edge of technology to provide you the best possible results with care and compassion. It is very gratifying to me that I can restore people’s sight every day. It is a gift that has been given to me to be able to do these wonderful things and offer these revolutionary technologies to the people of Southwest Florida. We are honored by the trust and confidence that people have in us. Eyesight is truly a precious commodity. If you have any questions about cataracts or how they are treated, please contact my office. There are more sunsets, and a life full of beautiful pictures and memories waiting.
Written by Jonathan Frantz, MD, FACS
