Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS)

FEMTOSECOND LASER-ASSISTED CATARACT SURGERY (FLACS)

WHAT IS FEMTOSECOND LASER-ASSISTED CATARACT SURGERY

Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery, or FLACS, is an advanced method of cataract removal that uses a computer-guided femtosecond laser to perform several key steps of the procedure with high precision. Cataract surgery removes a cloudy natural lens and replaces it with a clear artificial intraocular lens implant to restore vision.

In standard cataract surgery, these steps are performed manually using fine instruments. In FLACS, selected steps are first performed by a laser based on detailed eye imaging, followed by completion of the procedure by the surgeon.

HOW FLACS WORKS

Before the procedure, a high-resolution scan maps the front structures of the eye. The femtosecond laser then performs critical steps in a controlled and reproducible manner. These may include:

1. Creating corneal entry incisions

2. Forming a precise circular opening in the lens capsule

3. Softening or fragmenting the cataract lens

After the laser portion, the surgeon removes the cataract fragments and implants the chosen intraocular lens. The remainder of the surgery follows established microsurgical standards.

POTENTIAL ADVANTAGES

FLACS is designed to improve accuracy and consistency in selected steps of cataract surgery. Reported potential benefits include:

1. More precise and well-centered lens capsule opening

2. Reduced ultrasound energy needed to remove the cataract in some cases

3. Improved predictability of astigmatism-correcting corneal incisions when planned

4. Better alignment support for premium lens implants in appropriate patients

Clinical studies show that visual outcomes are generally comparable to high-quality standard cataract surgery, while precision metrics may be improved in selected parameters.

WHO MAY BENEFIT

FLACS may be considered for patients who:

1. Prefer laser-assisted technology

2. Are receiving premium intraocular lenses such as toric or extended depth-of-focus lenses

3. Have certain lens or corneal characteristics where added precision is helpful

Not all eyes are suitable for FLACS. Final eligibility depends on detailed examination and imaging findings.

SAFETY AND EVIDENCE BASIS

FLACS is supported by peer-reviewed clinical studies and is performed worldwide. When properly indicated and performed by a trained cataract surgeon, it has a safety profile similar to standard modern cataract surgery. As with any eye surgery, risks such as infection, inflammation, pressure changes, retinal complications, or residual refractive error can still occur, although these are uncommon.

IMPORTANT PATIENT GUIDANCE

Choice of cataract surgery technique is individualized. Laser assistance is one tool that may enhance precision but does not replace surgical judgment or experience. The expected visual result depends on overall eye health, including the retina and optic nerve, not only on the surgical method used.

A comprehensive eye evaluation and discussion of options help determine whether FLACS is appropriate for your condition and visual goals.