Laser Cataract Surgery

Laser cataract surgery is a new method of removing cataracts and correcting astigmatism with a refractive cataract laser. Laser cataract surgery allows unmatched precision and computer control, allowing surgeons to customize cataract surgery for each patient. A cataract is the clouding of the eye's natural lens. They are common in people aged 60 and older. Traditional treatment is surgery that removes the bad lens and replaces it with an artificial lens to improve vision. Surgery with the laser is bladeless and guided by optical coherence tomography imaging to precisely determine parameters of the surgery.

Why UAB

When it comes to cataracts, nothing can change your world like seeing it more clearly again. We perform traditional cataract surgery as well as a new option that uses breakthrough technology to remove cataracts and correct astigmatism using a refractive laser. The laser offers increased precision while eliminating the use of a blade. We have more surgeons certified to perform laser cataract surgery than any other facility in the Southeast.

UAB Medicine faculty physicians work closely with vision scientists to develop state-of-the-art technologies and groundbreaking treatments to improve your eye health. Callahan Eye Hospital pioneered surgical instrumentation, devices, and procedures that are now used by ophthalmologists all over the world. We don’t just treat eye disease – we help our patients learn to adapt to changes in their vision by providing comprehensive care and rehabilitation services.

Ophthalmology care at UAB is located in UAB Callahan Eye Hospital, one of the busiest eye hospitals in the country, where specialists work together to treat complex cases. The UAB Callahan Eye Hospital surgical suite houses nine operating rooms dedicated to eye surgery as well as a 24/7 eye emergency room, which is the region’s only Level I Ocular Trauma Center. More than 11,000 surgeries are performed at UAB Callahan Eye Hospital each year, and we conduct more reconstructive eye surgeries than any other facility in the world. Patients come from around the nation to be treated for eye conditions at UAB.

Images and Videos

Priscilla Fowler, MD Assistant Professor and Director of the Cornea Service in the Department of Ophthalmology at UAB, discusses how easily "red eye" can be misdiagnosed.

See how UAB’s Bioptic Driving Program is paving the road for those who are severely nearsighted to get behind the wheel safely.

UAB pilot program brings glaucoma screenings closer to home.

UAB Callahan Eye Hospital helped save a young baseball player’s career and, most importantly, his sight.

After being hit in the eye with a bottle rocket, Dianne Peterson underwent sight-saving surgery at UAB Callahan Eye Hospital.

How does laser cataract surgery differ from traditional cataract surgery?

PHYSICIANS

Priscilla G. Fowler, MD

Virginia R. Lolley, MD

Related Conditions

This procedure may be used to treat or diagnose several different conditions. We have listed some of these conditions below for your convenience. Please note that this is not a comprehensive list and may vary depending on your specific diagnosis.

Cataract

CLINICAL TRIALS

UAB is an active participant in research and clinical trials for Laser Cataract Surgery. We encourage you to speak to your physician about research and clinical trial options and browse the link below for more information on clinical trials at clinicaltrials.gov.

View Clinical Trials