Penny Holbert: A Fresh Perspective on Laser Cataract Surgery

One of the most rewarding things about what we do at nJoy Vision is seeing how immediately life-changing laser eye surgery can be for our patients. It is amazing to see how appreciative and emotional some patients become when they get to experience the world with suddenly-clearer vision.

Penny Holbert is one such patient. On referral, she flew all the way here from Seattle, Washington to have laser cataract surgery at nJoy Vision. Her expectations were clearly as big as the distance from The Space Needle to Devon Tower. Talk about pressure to perform.

And perform we did. So much so that Penny jumped at the opportunity to talk openly about her experience with nJoy. But this time we let her do it from the comfort of her own home.

Penny Holbert Laser Cataract Q&A

What is your name and where are you from?
My name is Penny Holbert and I actually live in the greater Seattle area.

What procedure did you have, and at which nJoy Vision Center did you have it?
I had my laser cataract procedure done at nJoy Vision in Tulsa, Oklahoma.

What made you want to fly across the country for this procedure, rather than finding a doctor closer to home?
My reason for traveling across the country was based on confidence and trust. I wanted the best care available; from the technician who measured and tested my eyes, to the most advanced technology for testing and surgery, to the most trained, experienced, and talented surgeon.

Tell us about the consultation process.
All of my questions were answered thoroughly by kind and considerate personnel. The technicians were highly trained and used the latest technology available. My excitement was not diminished by any element of fear. After talking with them and knowing all the facts and having complete confidence in the medical professionals was the key.

How long was the procedure from time in to time out?
So the procedure began in March 2014 with staff explaining what they were doing every step of the way. A little medication was administered and then the laser cataract removal began. I think it lasted about 70 seconds. Then a little more medication was administered. The next thing I knew, the final step of the procedure was over! I was told it lasted about 6 or so minutes, I was unaware the surgeon had begun. Easiest thing ever!

Tell us about what you were thinking/feeling on the day of the surgery.
Anticipating surgery on my eyes, I felt I was experiencing normal apprehension. Wondering about what the procedure was, how much trauma my eyes would endure, would there be pain during and following surgery, would the outcome be all I hoped it would be? The answer to all these questions is YES. To anyone considering this procedure and nJoy, specifically, do it.

If you were nervous or apprehensive, what did they do to help ease your nerves?
The doctor instantly put me at ease and I had complete confidence in his skill. He described the laser technique that made me feel assured I was in good hands for a speedy procedure that had a history of yielding ideal results.

Did you experience any discomfort or pain during the procedure?
Later I felt like I had an eyelash in my eye or similar minor irritation, but that was it for post-op pain and it did not last long.

How was your vision after your procedure?
Absolutely amazing! I could now distinguish navy from black. In fact, all colors seemed brighter. I awaited the second eye surgery with great anticipation. Same great care, tenderness from all concerned, and same great result 20/15!

Would you recommend nJoy Vision to other people?
Yes, it is a gift of sight! Be prepared for your first sunrise, first rainbow, looking in the eyes of a loved one. I cried. I admit a tear would well each time I saw something in this brilliant new way.