Laser refractive surgery and modern cataract surgery offer the possibility of living without glasses. While laser refractive surgery is popular among people aged 18 to 40 who seek to correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism, cataract surgery has also come to include the treatment of refractive error and presbyopia, expanding the visual independence of patients over 50.
The demand for these procedures is significant in Brazil. Cataract surgery leads the demand for elective surgeries in the country, with a 9% growth compared to the previous period. It is estimated that 14 million Brazilians over 50, or 25% of this age group, have the condition.
Ophthalmologist Igor Mota, cataract and refractive surgeon practicing in Belo Horizonte, highlights that technological evolution has significantly changed both treatment fronts. He recalls that current laser correction techniques for myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism represent important advances in the field.
