Laser vs Standard Cataract Surgery

[anitajay]

The clinic that I plan to go to has the newer IOLs such as the Tecnis multifocals as well as surgeons offering to bring in the Symfony before next month. However, the clinic policy is that laser-assisted cataract surgery is mandatory with premium lenses and it isn't optional to have it done via the standard method. They only say "they want to provide the most accurate and best treatment possible". The cost ranges from $1495.00 per eye to $3295.00 per eye, depending on the lens is what they told me, and I don't even think that's including the lens and it's just for the cataract surgery itself.

My concern is yes, newer lenses are appealing but it is it really worth it to invest in the extra cost for laser-assisted cataract surgery? Of course it'd be "worth" it personally since you end up with newer IOLs but I am asking more regarding whether laser-assisted cataract surgery has better outcomes and is something that is mandatory that can promote a successful outcome. (Although I've read that it's almost the same, but maybe a little more accurate with laser). Please advise!

[JohnHaganMD]

This is i believe your 9th post about the same material. For most people the cost of premium lens and upgraded technolology lime ORA and femtosecond laser is NOT WORTH IT. and the additional safety of this technology has not been demonstrated in peer reviewed journal and controlled study.  The equipment is however extremely expensive to surgical practices and once they buy in to it their entire office and staff are then pushed in to a "buy-up" program like you are seeing.