Femtosecond laser technology, or FLACS, is the most recent advancement in cataract surgery’s. Instead of using traditional blades and scalpels, this innovative procedure uses a specialised laser to make precise incisions and fragments of the cataract. FLACS is a non-invasive, reproducible technique that replaces traditional cataract surgery unanticipated and technically demanding stages. Using optical imaging, a computer-guided laser performs corneal incision, capsulotomy, and lens fragmentation.
What to expect pre- and post-surgery?
Pre-surgery
An evaluation will be performed prior to surgery to determine the type and extent of the cataract. You may be advised to stop taking certain medications or to abstain from eating and drinking for a set period of time. You will also be given instructions on how to prepare for the procedure.
Post-surgery
For a few days after surgery, you may experience mild pain, itching, sensitivity to light, burning, blurred or hazy vision, irritation, glare or halos around lights, tearing, and red or bloodshot eyes.
You Can Also Read: An Introduction to Laser Cataracts Surgery: Meaning, Benefits, & Treatment
Benefits of femtosecond laser cataract surgery
The procedure of the surgery
During the procedure, you will be positioned in the operating room under the laser system and computer screen, with numbing drops applied to your eyes. An eye speculum will be used to keep your eyelids open, followed by the placement of a suction ring over the pupil. The laser will then be activated, making precise incisions and breaking the cataract into smaller fragments, signalling the beginning of the surgery.
The surgeon will then transfer you to a different operating room to remove the broken cataract pieces with an ultrasonic phacoemulsification handpiece. After the cataract has been obliterated, an artificial intraocular lens will be implanted in your eye. The entire process takes around an hour for both eyes.