This month a patient asked: “How is ReLacs different from traditional cataract surgery?”
Dr. Patel answered:
Let’s start at the beginning: ReLACS stands for Refractive Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery.
Simply put, the method of removing a cataract has advanced tremendously. Patients are now able to choose between the standard, traditional method of cataract surgery involving handheld blades and instruments or an advanced laser-assisted, bladeless surgery, known as ReLACS.
Traditionally, incisions in the cornea are made using handheld blades to access the cataract. ReLACS (Refractive Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery) uses femto-second laser technology to precisely create all incisions, a perfectly circular opening in the lens capsule, break-up and soften the hard cataract, and reduce astigmatism.
Patients do very well with both procedures, however the accuracy and reproducibility of the femto-second laser allows for more predictable and precise visual outcomes. The traditional approach is a tried-and-true technique that allows patients to do very well after surgery and is covered by insurance companies. ReLACS allows for a quicker recovery and reduced dependence on glasses; this method however is not covered by insurance companies at this time.
