Patient Portal 
Online Payment 
Doctor Referral 
Financing 
Cataract surgery is a transformative procedure that restores vision by replacing your cloudy natural lens with a clear artificial lens. While all cataract surgeries aim to improve your eyesight, there are key differences between traditional and premium options. The team at St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute, serving Clearwater and St. Petersburg, Florida, believes that understanding these differences can help you make the best decision for your vision and lifestyle needs.
What is Traditional Cataract Surgery?
Traditional cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a standard intraocular lens (IOL). The standard IOL provides clear vision, typically at a single distance. Patients often require glasses for tasks such as reading or driving after surgery. Traditional surgery is effective and widely used, offering reliable results for patients focused on restoring basic visual clarity.
What Is Premium Cataract Surgery?
Premium cataract surgery goes beyond simply restoring vision. It incorporates advanced surgical techniques and premium IOLs, such as multifocal, toric, or extended depth of focus (EDOF) lenses. These lenses address issues like presbyopia and astigmatism, reducing or even eliminating the need for glasses after surgery. Premium surgery often includes laser-assisted technology for more precise incisions and improved outcomes.
Key Differences Between Traditional and Premium Cataract Surgery
Lens options
Traditional: Standard monofocal lenses correct vision at one distance, requiring glasses for other ranges.
Premium: Advanced lenses provide correction for multiple distances and conditions like astigmatism.
Surgical technique
Traditional: Manual methods are typically used to remove the cataract and insert the lens.
Premium: Laser-assisted technology offers greater precision and customization.
Visual outcomes
Traditional: Restores basic vision but often necessitates glasses for near or intermediate tasks.
Premium: Offers enhanced visual clarity at various distances, often reducing dependence on glasses.
Cost considerations
Traditional: Covered by most insurance plans, with minimal out-of-pocket expenses.
Premium: Typically involves additional costs due to the advanced lenses and technologies.
Which Option Is Right for You?
The choice between traditional and premium cataract surgery depends on your vision goals, lifestyle, and budget. If you’re content using glasses after surgery, traditional cataract surgery may meet your needs. However, if you want to enjoy a more glasses-free lifestyle, premium options provide advanced benefits worth considering. A consultation with your ophthalmologist will help you weigh the pros and cons of each approach.
Find Your Best Option at St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute
At St. Michael’s Eye & Laser Institute, we offer both traditional and premium cataract surgery options, customized to meet your needs. Our experienced team will guide you through the decision-making process to help you achieve the vision you deserve. Call us in Largo, FL today at 727-585-2200 to schedule a consultation and learn more about your options.
