Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over 40, and the principal cause of blindness in the world.  Cataracts form on the lens of your eye, causing difficulty seeing at night, or cloudy vision that can worsen over time.  This is corrected by replacing the lens with a sterile acrylic or silicone lens, which can often also correct your near- or far-sightedness.

There are multiple choices for the treatment of cataracts including Traditional Cataract Surgery that will remove cataracts and correct vision.  Most patients do need reading glasses after this procedure.

Dr. Aaron Porter, board certified in Ophthalmology and Optometry, is one of only 5 surgeons trialing the new LenSx Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery Software.  It is unquestionably the most technologically advanced option for cataract patients.  The LenSx laser adds computer-control to key steps of the procedure, allowing him to perform with exacting specifications not attainable with traditional surgery.

There are 3 steps to cataract surgery, and the laser can assist at each point along the way.  Use of the laser at these key steps in the procedure reduces complications and increases positive outcomes for cataract patients.

The Laser Makes the Incision

A precise surgical plan is created using a sophisticated 3-D image of the eye.  By making the most precise incision possible with regard to location, depth and length of the cut, the surgery is exact for each patient, and reduces the risk of infection post-surgery.

The Laser Performs a Capsulotomy

Once the incision is made, the front portion of the eye capsule is removed to gain access to the cataract.
It is critical to a successful procedure that this capsule, which will hold the new lens, be preserved as much as possible, while still allowing the cataract to be removed. Laser-assisted cataract surgery reduces the risk of capsule breakage.

The Laser Fragments the Cataract

After the capsulotomy, the surgeon has access to break up and remove the cataract.  The laser softens the cataract as it breaks it up, so there is less chance of burning and distortion of the incision.  The reduced energy required in laser surgery also makes the procedure safer for the inner eye, reducing the risk of a detached retina.

Ready to see better?

Tired of blurry vision?  Do you worry about driving at night?  Contact us and allow the dedicated staff at Cool Spring Surgical Associates to help you see better!  Call 615.716.9388 and schedule your free consultation today.

Dr. Aaron J. Porter is board certified in Ophthalmology and Optometry, and holds a Medical School degree from the University of Cincinnati.  He treats glaucoma and specializes in laser cataract surgery and refractive surgery.  He trained under Dr. Ming Wang, and was the Chief Resident at Vanderbilt in the early 2000’s.  Dr. Porter has completed more than 20,000 cataract surgeries, including donating over 5000 eye surgeries through his participation in Vanderbilt University’s Canby Robinson Society.