Bilateral Cataract Surgery (also known as ISBCS) involves performing cataract surgery on both eyes during a single surgical session. This means that instead of undergoing two separate surgeries on different days, patients can have both cataracts removed in one visit.
The Benefits of ISBCS:
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Convenience: ISBCS eliminates the need for multiple trips to the operating room, saving patients time and reducing the inconvenience associated with scheduling and recovery
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Faster Visual Recovery: With ISBCS, patients can experience quicker visual recovery compared to undergoing surgery on each eye separately. This means enjoying clearer vision sooner and getting back to normal activities faster.
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Reduced Anxiety: For many patients, the thought of undergoing surgery can be anxiety-inducing. ISBCS can help alleviate this anxiety by condensing the surgical process into a single session, minimizing the overall stress associated with cataract surgery.
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Improved Symmetry: By addressing both eyes simultaneously, ISBCS can help achieve better symmetry in vision and reduce the likelihood of noticeable differences in visual acuity between the two eyes.
Is ISBCS Right for You?
While ISBCS offers numerous benefits, it may not be suitable for everyone. Factors such as overall health, ocular health, and individual preferences will be taken into consideration when determining if ISBCS is the right option for you. During your consultation I will discuss your specific needs and concerns to determine the most appropriate treatment plan for your unique situation. My primary motivation is to deliver the cataract plan that suits you most, whether it involves treating both eyes on the same day or on different occasions. I pride myself that I am one of the only surgeons in the South West to offer this treatment and many patients choose me for their cataract surgery for this reason.
Comprehensive Preoperative Evaluation and Personalized Care:
Before undergoing ISBCS, you will undergo a thorough preoperative evaluation to assess your eye health and ensure that you are a suitable candidate for the procedure. I provide personalised care and guidance throughout every step of the process, from the initial consultation to postoperative follow-up care, to ensure the best possible outcomes for your vision and overall well-being.
The potential risks:
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The usual low risks of cataract surgery still apply whether you have both cataracts treated on the same or different days.
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Cataract complications either occur during the surgery or afterwards. In the event of a complication occurring during the first eye operation then it would not be appropriate to continue with the second eye surgery – instead this will be deferred until the first eye complication is fully resolved. This is very rare.
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The main worry with regards to bilateral same day cataract surgery is of a post-operative complication happening in both eyes at the same time. It is important to remember that the chances of having a complication occurring in both eyes is the same regardless of whether you have it on the same day or defer the second eye. i.e you do not incur greater risks from having both eyes performed at the same time. A recent large randomised controlled trial has demonstrated no increased risk of complications occurring after same day bilateral surgery compared with deferred.