Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery

A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s lens. Caused by the clumping of protein in the lens, cataracts cause blurry vision and may continue to grow until treated or removed. Common treatment methods include stronger eyeglass prescriptions or the surgical removal of the cataract with intraocular lens implantation.

Usually performed on an outpatient basis, the cataract surgery we provide is virtually painless. This state-of-the-art procedure requires only a very small incision and generally does not require stitches. Cataract surgery recovery is quick; most patients are able to resume their normal daily activities the day after surgery.

Technologically Advanced Cataract Surgery

Technologically advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs), including the ReSTOR® Lens and Crystalens®, are now available that provide patients with a full range of quality vision (near, intermediate, and distance). These new multifocal IOLs are particularly well-suited for patients who wish to reduce their dependency on reading glasses and bifocals in addition to maintaining good distance vision once their cataract is removed.

The AcrySof® IQ PanOptix® Trifocal IOL is a type of multifocal IOL used to focus images clearly onto the back of your eye (retina) to allow clear vision after your cataract removal. What sets it apart from other cataract IOL lenses? The center of the AcrySof® IQ PanOptix® Trifocal IOL allows for better near (reading) vision and intermediate (computer work) vision versus what a monofocal lens would provide.

For more information about treating your cataracts with these premium intraocular multifocal lenses or to schedule an examination, please contact the specialists at North Georgia Eye Clinic today.

Video: Laser Cataract Surgery

Information on the benefits of laser cataract surgery

Our Cataract Surgeons

Jeffrey Payne, MD
L. Jeffrey Payne, M.D.Cataract Surgeon, Ophthalmologist
Location: Gainesville

Dr. Jeffrey Payne is one of the most experienced ophthalmologists in North Georgia. Currently he is the Medical Director of North Georgia Eye and its’ affiliated businesses, North Georgia Optical, North Georgia Aesthetics, North Georgia Hearing and North Georgia Eye Surgery Center. Dr. Payne graduated magna cum laude from North Georgia College in Dahlonega, with a B.S. in biology. Following completion of his undergraduate work he enrolled in the Medical College of Georgia in Augusta. Dr. Payne was the Desiree Franklin Scholar, received the Shephard Award for Outstanding Research and a pathology research fellowship. After earning his Doctorate of Medicine (MD), he completed his internship at the Medical College of Georgia hospitals and clinics followed by a residency in ophthalmology, where he was named Chief Resident.

Dr. Payne is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO), American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons (ASCRS), and the Georgia Society of Ophthalmology (GSO). He serves as Chairman of Health Partners Board at Northeast Georgia Medical Center. Dr. Payne is a Diplomat of the American Board of Ophthalmology and a board member of the Georgia Society of Ophthalmology. Dr. Jeffrey Payne has privileges at Northeast Georgia Medical Center and North Georgia Eye Surgery Center. Jeff Payne and his family are members of Gainesville First United Methodist Church in Gainesville, Georgia.

Matthew B. Kaufman, M.D.Cataract Surgeon, Refractive Surgeon, Ophthalmologist
Locations: Cumming, Hamilton Mill & Gainesville

Matthew B. Kaufman, M.D., a leading ophthalmologist in Northern Georgia, is the director of refractive surgery at North Georgia Eye Clinic. Fellowship-trained to sub-specialize in LASIK and refractive surgery, corneal disorders and treatments, and cataract surgery, Dr. Kaufman received his education and training from some of the most advanced medical facilities in the nation. He graduated magna cum laude from Vanderbilt University; following the completion of his undergraduate degree, Dr. Kaufman enrolled in the Vanderbilt University Medical School and received his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) degree. Dr. Kaufman completed an internship in internal medicine at the University of Virginia in Charlottesville, Virginia, and a residency in ophthalmology at the Baylor College of Medicine in Houston, Texas. During his residency, he was Baylor’s first resident physician ever to perform LASIK surgery. Dr. Kaufman elected to further his training by accepting a fellowship in cornea, anterior segment, and refractive surgery at the University of California. While in California, he had the privilege to train directly with Dr. Peter McDonnell, the current chairman of the Department of Ophthalmology at the Johns Hopkins University School of Medicine, widely regarded as the premier ophthalmology program in the world. Dr. Kaufman has served as a clinical instructor at the University of California and the Veterans Administration Hospital in Long Beach, California. He was also a faculty instructor for the University of California Residency Microsurgery Course.

Dr. Kaufman has published articles in several medical journals, with topics including LASIK and cataract surgery. He has been the recipient of many awards and honors throughout his professional and academic careers. These honors include a fellowship with Diabetes Research and Training Center at Vanderbilt University, the Phi Beta Kappa award, membership in the College Scholars Program, and membership in the Mortar Board Honor Society. Dr. Kaufman is a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) and the Georgia Society of Ophthalmology. He is board-certified in ophthalmology and his hospital affiliations include Northside Hospital and North Georgia Eye Surgery Center.