Cataracts, LASIK Eye Surgery

Cataract surgery and LASIK treat different vision problems. LASIK reshapes the cornea to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. Cataract surgery removes a cloudy natural lens and replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Your age, eye health, prescription, presence of cataracts, and vision goals help determine which option is right for you. 

Quick Takeaways 

  • LASIK corrects certain refractive errors by reshaping the cornea.  
  • Cataract surgery replaces a cloudy natural lens with an IOL.  
  • A significant cataract generally requires a lens-based treatment rather than LASIK.  
  • A comprehensive eye exam determines which option fits your eyes and vision goals.  

When is LASIK the right choice? 

LASIK may be appropriate for adults with a stable prescription and healthy eyes who want to reduce their dependence on glasses or contact lenses. 

LASIK corrects nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism. It does not correct presbyopia, the age-related difficulty focusing on nearby objects. Certain eye conditions, including cataracts and some corneal problems, can also affect LASIK candidacy.

Learn more about LASIK at ADV Vision or take the LASIK self-test. 

LASIK Self-Test

When is cataract surgery the better option? 

Cataract surgery treats clouding of the eye’s natural lens. Common symptoms include blurry vision, glare, difficulty seeing at night, faded colors, and frequent prescription changes. 

Unlike LASIK, cataract surgery removes the natural lens and replaces it with an IOL. The American Academy of Ophthalmology recommends evaluation when cataract symptoms begin interfering with daily activities. 

Dr. Jawad Ahmad at ADV Vision specializes in cataract, cornea, and refractive surgery, making him a valuable resource for patients comparing lens-based and laser vision correction. 

Explore cataract surgery at ADV Vision or take the cataract self-test.

Cataract Self-Test

How do you know which procedure is right for you? 

A comprehensive eye exam provides the clearest answer. Your evaluation may include vision testing, prescription measurements, corneal testing, assessment of the natural lens, and a dilated eye examination. 

At ADV Vision, patients throughout San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, and Santa Maria can discuss both LASIK and cataract surgery based on their eye health, lifestyle, and vision goals. 

If you’re comparing your options on the Central Coast, schedule an appointment with ADV Vision or call (805) 987-5300.

Schedule an Appointment

Frequently Asked Questions 

LASIK generally does not treat a visually significant cataract because LASIK reshapes the cornea while cataract surgery replaces the cloudy natural lens. 

Neither procedure is universally better. LASIK treats refractive errors, while cataract surgery treats a cloudy natural lens. Your eye health determines which treatment is appropriate. 

Yes. Cataract surgery uses an IOL selected according to your eye measurements and visual goals. ADV Vision offers several IOL options, including the Light Adjustable Lens. 

Depending on your eyes and prescription, other options such as PRK or lens-based procedures may be appropriate. 

The information in this article is for educational purposes only and does not substitute for a comprehensive eye examination by a qualified eye care professional. 

Schedule an appointment with ADV Vision or call (805) 987-5300.