Your eyes are your window to the world, and when your vision begins to shift, whether from age or eye strain, deciding what to do next can feel overwhelming. One of the most common questions patients ask in Houston is whether LASIK or cataract surgery is the right choice for their situation. While both procedures aim to improve vision, they serve different needs. The key to making the right decision often starts with the right ophthalmologist.
At Coastal Eye Associates, Dr. Gregory T. Clariday brings more than two decades of experience helping patients determine what vision solution fits best and not just for their eyes, but for their goals and lifestyle.
Understanding the Root of the Problem Before You Pick a Solution
The first step in deciding between LASIK and cataract surgery is understanding what’s really causing the vision changes. LASIK is typically used to correct refractive errors such as nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism in patients under 50. These patients may have struggled with glasses or contacts for years and are looking for a long-term alternative.
Cataracts, however, are an age-related clouding of the eye’s natural lens. Most people start developing them in their 60s or later. Though for some, cataracts form earlier due to genetics or environmental factors like sun exposure or smoking.
LASIK reshapes the cornea, the outer surface of the eye, while cataract surgery replaces the clouded lens inside the eye. They’re designed to solve different problems. That’s why a personalized exam with an experienced ophthalmologist in Houston is so important. You need clarity on the cause before you commit to a correction.
The Benefits of LASIK And When to Consider It
For those who are candidates, LASIK is a game-changer. Imagine waking up and seeing the world clearly without glasses or contact lenses. With advanced iLASIK technology, which includes custom wavefront-guided mapping and bladeless femtosecond lasers, patients at Coastal Eye Associates receive a level of precision that wasn’t available even a decade ago.
Dr. Clariday uses a fully digital system that creates a fingerprint-like map of each eye to guide the laser, meaning your LASIK treatment is as unique as you are. Recovery is fast. Many patients return to normal activities within 24 to 48 hours.
LASIK is a smart option if you’re under 50, your prescription has been stable for a year, and you’re free from eye diseases like glaucoma or cataracts. It’s not right for everyone, but for many, it’s the freedom they’ve been craving.
Replacing the Cloud, Restoring the Clarity
If your vision feels like it’s constantly dim or blurry, especially at night, and colors seem less vivid, cataracts might be the reason. Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed procedures in the U.S., and it’s also one of the safest.
Dr. Clariday offers advanced cataract surgery with premium lens options. These lenses offer the potential for improved vision at multiple distances. Some patients can even eliminate their need for glasses.
One standout option is the ReSTOR multifocal lens, which offers the ability to focus at near, intermediate, and far ranges. This means you can read, use your phone, and drive. All with minimal reliance on corrective eyewear.
“At Coastal Eye Associates, we don’t just correct your vision. We personalize your path to clearer sight,” says Gregory T. Clariday, M.D. “Whether it’s LASIK or cataract surgery, we help patients feel confident in the next step.”
Choosing the Right Houston Ophthalmologist Isn’t Just About Credentials
While surgical skill and certifications are critical, choosing your ophthalmologist is also about how you feel during your visits. Do you feel rushed? Do you get clear answers? Does your doctor ask about your goals and not just your prescription?
Dr. Clariday brings more than expertise. He brings trust, compassion, and an unmatched level of personal attention to each consultation. His patients return year after year not just for care, but for clarity, and that clarity starts with a doctor who listens.
His practice is deeply rooted in the Houston community, and his commitment to medical mission work in Mexico reflects a lifelong dedication to meaningful care, not just medicine.
Not Sure What’s Right for You? That’s Okay. Start With a Clear Exam.
The best way to choose between LASIK and cataract surgery is by starting with a comprehensive eye exam. This exam will measure your prescription, evaluate your corneal thickness and lens clarity, and uncover any hidden eye health issues.
Even if you’re not a candidate for LASIK today, there may be other vision correction options that fit your needs, including PRK or refractive lens exchange. And if cataracts are the issue, early intervention often leads to the best results.
The goal isn’t to push procedures; it’s to give you a clear understanding of where your vision stands and what options make the most sense.
Start Your Journey Today
You don’t have to figure it all out on your own. Choosing the right eye procedure begins with a conversation. Schedule a consultation at Coastal Eye Associates and take the first step toward clearer vision, better comfort, and a plan that fits your life.
You deserve more than a prescription. You deserve a partnership in your long-term vision health.
