Dr. Michael Saidel Now Offers Laser Cataract Surgery In Sonoma Valley

February 8, 2019

Ophthalmologist Michael Saidel, MD, is now offering Sonoma Valley patients laser cataract surgery in association with Sonoma Valley Hospital.

Laser surgery is an option for many experiencing cataracts – a condition that involves a clouding of the lens of the eye over time that affects vision clarity. Surgery is recommended when vision is compromised to the point when the cataract affects everyday activities. With cataract surgery, the ophthalmologist removes the clouded lens and replaces it with a clear, artificial lens.

Traditional cataract surgery involves using ultrasound and a small manual incision in the cornea to remove and replace the clouded lens. Laser cataract surgery is a newer procedure that involves using computer-directed laser technology to precisely map the eye and cataract, and remove and replace the lens without the use of a surgical blade. Dr. Saidel performs both traditional and laser cataract surgery and can discuss the advantages of each form of surgery with patients.

Both types of surgery are performed on an outpatient basis in less than an hour and are considered safe and highly effective procedures for the most common source of vision loss for those over age 40. The American Academy of Ophthalmology reports cataracts affect more than 24 million Americans age 40 and older, and by age 75, approximately half of all Americans have cataracts.

“There are a number of advanced intraocular lenses used today to replace the cloudy lens we remove in cataract surgery giving patients a choice in the type and degree of vision correction,” said Dr. Saidel. “These lenses can help people improve their vision, both for near and distance, and can mean greater freedom from glasses after surgery.”

Dr. Saidel is a comprehensive Ophthalmologist who specializes in diseases of the cornea, external disease, refractive surgery, and uveitis. He earned his medical degree from the University of Illinois at Chicago, with additional training at Tucson Medical Center, Tulane University and the University of California, San Francisco.

Dr. Saidel is widely published and has authored numerous peer-reviewed articles. His two books, Ophthalmology Review Manual and Review Questions in Ophthalmology, are perennial best sellers. He has privileges at Sonoma Valley Hospital and sees patients at the North Bay Eye Associates office located at 181 Andrieux St., Suites 100 & 101, in Sonoma. The office phone number is 707.996.1052.