Cataract FAQ

What Are Lasers?

Lasers are instruments that emit a narrow, finely focused beam of light energy. This light energy is used to treat a variety of medial conditions, including certain types of eye problems or diseases.

Are Lasers Safe?

Ophthalmologists have used Argon and Neodymium: YAG lasers to treat the front part of the eye since the early 1970's. Both of these lasers are extremely safe and clinically effective. Dr. Glen K. Goodman will select the one that is most appropriate for treating your eye.

How Long Will The Treatment Take?

Most treatment sessions are completed in a matter of minutes. Rarely do they take longer than 15 minutes. Although the actual laser treatment takes only a matter of minutes, you may need to be available to the doctor for two to three hours. Special medications will have to be instilled in your eye beginning one hour before treatment. The doctor may also wish to examine your eye following the treatment to make sure there are no immediate complications and that it is safe for you to leave.

Will the Laser Treatment Be Painful?

No. There is minimal discomfort associated with the laser treatment. Your eye will be numbed with the eyedrops before treatment begins, so most of the time you will feel nothing. In a few rare instances some patients will feel a pinching-like sensation in their eye.

What Will I Experience During Laser Treatment?

You will see the bright light of the slit lamp focused at your eye. You will also see a flash as the laser is fired. If your doctor is using an Argon laser, you will notice a flash of bright blue-green light. If your doctor is using a Neodymium: YAG laser, you will see a flash of light, like a camera's flash, and hear a snapping sound.