In the 1990s, cataract surgery involved entirely manual techniques. Surgeons used handheld blades and ultrasound (phacoemulsification) to break up and remove the cloudy lens. Patients typically received a basic monofocal intraocular lens (IOL), which corrected vision at only one distance.
As a result:
- Recovery times were longer
- There was less precision
- Glasses were still needed for many daily tasks
While the outcomes were life-changing for many, the options for customization were minimal.
What’s Changed: Modern Cataract Surgery Today
At Westlake Eye Specialists, our approach reflects how far the field has advanced — especially in terms of precision, personalization, and patient comfort.
🔹 Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery
We now offer laser-assisted cataract surgery, using femtosecond laser technology to perform key parts of the surgery with greater accuracy. This technique replaces blades with computer-guided lasers, leading to a gentler, more predictable procedure and faster recovery.
🔹 Advanced IOLs & Light Adjustable Lenses (LAL)
Unlike the standard IOLs of the past, today’s lenses are highly customizable. One of the most exciting advancements is the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) — the only lens that allows your vision to be adjusted after surgery.
With this technology, your Austin TX cataract surgeon can fine-tune your vision weeks after the procedure to help you achieve the best results possible — often reducing or eliminating the need for glasses altogether.
A Private Surgical Experience – Not a Hospital Setting
At Westlake Eye Specialists, all cataract surgeries are performed in our Office-Based Surgical Suite (OBS) instead of a hospital. This creates a more relaxed, efficient experience while maintaining the highest safety standards.
Benefits of our private surgical center include:
- Shorter wait times
- Lower risk of hospital-related infection
- A focused, personalized environment for eye surgery
- Care from a team dedicated exclusively to ophthalmology
Learn more about what makes our surgical approach unique at our Austin Cataract Center.
Serving Central Texas with Convenient Locations
We’re proud to bring top-tier cataract care to patients across Central Texas. Our locations include:
- Austin, TX
- New Braunfels, TX
- Kyle, TX
- Killeen, TX
Wherever you are, our experienced team of Austin TX cataract surgeons is ready to help you experience life with clearer vision.
