During these uncertain times, Dr. Pilavas is scheduling in-person appointments but also providing telemedicine visits from the comfort of your own home. Appointments can be booked through our website. Please call 718-204-5100 for more information.
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Cataract Surgery Specialist

John Pilavas, MD Our Services Cataract Surgery

John Pilavas, MD

Ophthalmologist located in Astoria, Long Island City, NY & New Hyde Park, NY

As a board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. John Pilavas offers cataract surgery and other treatment options to his patients who suffer from cataracts and other vision problems. He encourages patients who live in the Astoria, New York, area to visit his office if they have any questions about cataracts or eye health in general.

Cataract Surgery Q & A

What causes cataracts?

A cataract is a condition that affects the lens of your eye. A cloudy film forms over the cornea, covering the lens and gradually obscuring your vision. Although cataracts often develop in both eyes, they may not develop at the same rate, leaving one eye with poorer vision than the other.

In most cases, cataracts are caused by age. They can also occur if an injury compromises the corneal tissue. Cataracts may also be genetic: Patients who have a parent or grandparent who was diagnosed with cataracts have a higher risk for developing the condition.

What occurs during cataract surgery?

Once the cornea has been desensitized with numbing eye drops and the surface has been properly prepared, Dr. Pilavas uses a bladeless, excimer laser to create a small incision. He removes the damaged lens and replaces it with an artificial lens made of plastic. Also known as an intraocular lens, the replacement lens is inserted and the corneal flap is placed over it.

There’s a slight risk of infection due to the removal and replacement of the lens, but the eye should heal quickly. Complete healing may take one to two weeks, depending on the irritation.

What are the benefits of the Catalys® laser?

The Catalys laser is one of the most advanced tools that Dr. Pilavas uses for cataract surgery. The laser offers 3-D imaging, which helps create an accurate map of the eye. Dr. Pilavas can then create an exact surgical plan, allowing for a precise incision when removing the cataract.

There are several other benefits, too. The Catalys laser creates an incision that’s 10 times more accurate than similar devices. Using this new technology, Dr. Pilavas can break up the cataract and remove it without causing further damage to the eye. It also obviates the need for the patient to wear glasses ever again, and it can even correct astigmatism!