Best Cataract Surgery and LASIK in Delhi: Can They Be Performed at the Same Time?

• LASIK Surgery
• 19 April, 2024
• BY Bajaj Eye Care Centre

When it comes to vision correction surgeries, LASIK and cataract surgery are among the most frequently discussed and performed procedures worldwide. A common question among patients is whether these two procedures can be combined. But before addressing this question, it’s essential to understand the differences between cataract surgery and LASIK.

In this article, we will discuss the feasibility, benefits, and considerations of combining cataract surgery with LASIK.

What is LASIK Eye Surgery?

LASIK (Laser-Assisted in Situ Keratomileusis) is a popular refractive eye surgery that corrects vision issues such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses. The procedure involves reshaping the cornea using a laser, enabling the light to enter the eye and be accurately focused onto the retina, resulting in clearer vision. LASIK is known for its quick recovery time, minimal discomfort, and the potential to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses.

What Conditions Does LASIK Eye Surgery Treat?

LASIK eye surgery is performed to improve the vision of patients who suffer from:

• Nearsightedness (myopia): In this, the patient feels difficulty seeing distant objects clearly. To improve this eye condition, the LASIK flattens the cornea, reducing its curvature to improve distance vision.
• Farsightedness (hyperopia): In this, the patient feels difficulty seeing close objects clearly. To improve this eye condition, LASIK increases the curvature of the cornea to enhance near vision.
• Astigmatism: In this case, the patient has blurred or distorted vision due to an irregularly shaped cornea. To improve this eye condition, the LASIK reshapes the cornea to a more regular form, improving overall clarity.
• Presbyopia: In this, the patient has age-related difficulty reading or seeing close objects. Though not a primary treatment, sometimes LASIK can help.

What is Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery, on the other hand, involves removing the cloudy lens affected by a cataract and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This procedure aims to restore clear vision by eliminating cataract-induced blurriness. The procedure is typically performed on an outpatient basis and involves minimal discomfort. It can significantly improve vision, making colors appear brighter and reducing glare. Cataract surgery is highly effective, with a high success rate and quick recovery time, helping patients regain clear, sharp vision and enhancing their overall quality of life.

What Conditions Does Cataract Surgery Treat?

Cataract surgery is done to treat the clouding of the eye’s lens, which obstructs the normal passage of light through the eye.

Cataract surgery is performed to improve the vision of patients who suffer from:

• Cataracts: In this, there is clouding of the eye’s natural lens due to aging, injury, or other factors. Cataract surgery removes the cloudy lens and replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to restore clear vision.
• Decreased visual acuity: In this, there is blurry or dim vision caused by cataracts obstructing light from reaching the retina. Cataract surgery improves visual acuity by replacing the cloudy lens with a clear IOL, allowing light to properly focus on the retina.
• Glare and halos: In this, there is difficulty seeing bright light or at night, often accompanied by glare or halos around lights. Cataract surgery reduces glare and halos by removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear IOL, improving light transmission.
• Difficulty with daily activities: If one is facing challenges with driving, reading, or performing other routine tasks due to impaired vision caused by cataracts, then cataract surgery can help restore the vision, enhancing the ability to perform daily activities with clarity and ease.

Is It Possible to Perform Cataract Surgery and LASIK in Delhi at The Same Time?

Cataract surgery and LASIK are never performed simultaneously on one eye. Each procedure has specific indications based on the patient’s needs. If a cataract is present, cataract surgery is necessary, whereas LASIK is considered for individuals without cataracts who seek to reduce their need to wear glasses or contacts.

In many cases, selecting an intraocular lens (IOL) during cataract surgery can achieve the same vision correction as LASIK. However, if issues like astigmatism persist post-cataract surgery, LASIK may be recommended, but it should be done separately, with a delay of at least a month or longer. Performing both procedures at the same time is not recommended.

Final Thoughts

Cataract surgery and LASIK in Delhi offers transformative solutions for vision impairment, enhancing quality of life and reducing dependence on corrective eyewear. To access expert care and tailored treatment plans, individuals are encouraged to consult Dr. Rajiv Bajaj, a renowned ophthalmologist at Bajaj Eye Care Centre in Delhi. With his expertise and personalized approach, patients can achieve clearer vision and improved eye health. Trusting in Dr. Bajaj’s skills and experience ensures optimal outcomes and a brighter future for vision.