About 4 million Americans undergo cataract surgery each year. The procedure, which replaces the natural lens of your eye with an intraocular lens (IOL), is safe and can help sharpen your vision. But many people feel overwhelmed during the lens selection process, because they aren’t sure what to expect.
The VirtuaLens Headset allows those preparing to undergo cataract surgery to preview different lens options beforehand, giving them peace of mind and confidence in their decision.
At Orange County Cataract and Glaucoma in Santa Ana, California, Dr. Anand Bhatt and our team use the VirtuaLens headset to help patients make an intraocular lens choice that aligns with their needs. This blog explains what the VirtuaLens does and highlights its benefits for patients.
The VirtuaLens headset makes it easy for people preparing for cataract surgery to see what their vision will look like using different types of intraocular lenses.
Specifically, it lets patients preview three lens types:
This type of IOL improves blurry vision at a fixed distance, such as objects close up or far away. It’s a good option for people who are only nearsighted (myopic) or farsighted (hyperopic).
This type of IOL corrects vision at several distances. If you’re farsighted and nearsighted, it can help sharpen your vision in both instances. Multifocal lens cataract surgery is often a good option for people who want to reduce their dependence on glasses/contacts for both near and far tasks.
This type of IOL corrects astigmatism, caused by an irregularly shaped cornea (the clear surface of the front of the eyes).
The headset also lets you test intraocular lenses in different mock scenarios, such as driving, reading, or looking at faraway objects.
Thanks to its cutting-edge virtual reality (VR) technology, many people report that it helped them feel more confident in their presurgery preparation.
Cataract surgery has a proven record of success, but a small percentage of patients end up regretting their decision due to dissatisfaction with their lens choice.
The VirtuaLens Headset makes this type of outcome less likely because it:
Using the VirtuaLens Headset also makes your consultation more interactive. You can see what to expect after surgery, ask questions immediately after, and get personalized feedback from Dr. Bhatt. This hands-on experience lets you address any concerns and feel more confident in your decision-making.
Cataract surgery consultations with the VirtuaLens Headset typically take 30-45 minutes.
The VR headset is comfortable and doesn’t require any preparation. All you have to do is put it on. Most people tolerate the experience well, but if you feel nauseous or experience any other side effects, simply take it off.
After making your IOL selection and completing your consultation, Dr. Bhatt will schedule your cataract surgery and explain how to get ready for it.
If you’re preparing to undergo cataract surgery and feel nervous about making the right lens choice, the VirtuaLens Headset can help.
Schedule a consultation today by calling our office at 714-541-4185 or using the online booking feature.
