explain that phacoemulsification wasn't a laser, it demonstrates a rele-
vant point now that laser cataract surgery is actually an option.
Patients almost always want cutting-edge technology … especially
when a laser is involved.
While laser cataract surgery wasn't a possibility when I underwent
surgery, the promise of blade-free precision can be a draw to many
out-of-pocket patients. Research on the benefits of laser versus non-
laser surgery is still limited. However, patients who have the option
often choose the technology, sometimes simply because it sounds like
a higher quality of care. Additionally, some femtosecond lasers now
also let a surgeon perform LASIK, which can be very attractive for
docs and patients determined to get perfect post-op vision.
Before adding the laser to your facility, do a cost analysis to find out
if purchasing the pricey technology is worth it to your facility. Many
smaller centers may find they don't have the volume necessary to turn
a profit with the $500,000 laser plus a per-use fee. In those cases, you
might consider leasing or outsourcing.
The people that might make the biggest impact on your decision,
though, are your surgeons. If they are performing laser cases at other
facilities, or are eager to use the technique, simply having the technol-
ogy available can keep you in the race. If patients know that their doc-
tor can go to facility X for laser cataract surgery or facility Y for a
standard procedure, many will go with that first choice.
5. Consider new refractive technology
My surgery was relatively straightforward. But today's refractive
cataract patients have 2 other options on the market that may help
improve their outcomes: intraoperative aberrometry and digital
marking systems.
Intraoperative wavefront aberrometry helps reduce residual refrac-
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