Montreal Eye Clinic

Cataract Refractive Surgery

Cataract refractive surgery consists of removing the clouded natural lens of the eye and correcting, at the same time, any existing vision problems. The operation begins with small corneal incisions to correct the astigmatism. An ultrasound instrument is used to break up the hard cataract and remove all the fragments. An intraocular lens (IOL) is then inserted in the eye. The patient can choose either a monofocal or a multifocal intraocular lens. The procedure requires neither stitches nor injections for anesthesia.

The Evolution of Cataract Surgery

During the nineteen eighties, cataract surgery required a large incision, many stitches and the injection of local anesthesia around the eye. Sometimes, even general anesthesia was needed. Back then patients had to wear bifocal glasses to improve their vision. Glasses were required for far as well as for near vision.

During the nineteen nineties, phacoemulsification, a new surgical technique using ultrasound, produced better results for farsightedness. Glasses were still required for near vision.

Today, at the dawn of the 21st century, patients can enjoy more rapid improvement of their distant vision, thanks to a technological revolution that allows for a smaller incision. They can also experience improved near vision by opting for a multifocal AMO Array implant.

The Laser Phacolysis

Dr. Fanous was the first to introduce Laser cataract surgery in Canada, in 1998, here at The Montreal Eye Clinic. Laser Cataract surgery had the advantage of a smaller incision, produced less heat and used less energy than ultrasound surgery.

The Sub-2 Technique

Introduced in January 2000, the Sub-2 technology called for a smaller incision in ultrasound surgery (from 3.2 mm to 1.9 mm), reducing surgical risks and accelerating the healing process.

The White Star Technology
	This new technology first came into use in 2002. It uses Sonolase energy, which combines the benefits of both ultrasound and laser. This new technology allows us to perform surgery with an unequaled degree of precision and safety using an incision that can be as small as 1 mm.