Cataract Surgery in LOCATION1
A cataract occurs when the clear lens inside our eye becomes cloudy. Cataracts develop slowly and reduce the amount of light that can get through the lens, making it difficult to see. Those with the condition feel as though they’re perpetually looking through a dirty window that cannot be cleaned.
It is impossible to predict how quickly a cataract may develop, but diabetes and the eyes’ exposure to ultraviolet light often accelerate the process. Smoking and poor nutrition are additional risk factors.
Fortunately, cataract surgery can easily treat this condition. To get your eyes evaluated and to have any questions answered, we invite you to book an appointment with in LOCATION1 today!
What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
It takes time for a cataract to form, and the symptoms can be subtle.
The most common symptoms include:
- Blurred or double vision
- Trouble seeing at night or in dim lighting
- Sensitivity to glare
- Colored halos around lights
- Colors appear less vibrant
- Needing brighter light for reading and other indoor activities
When Should You Consider Getting Cataract Surgery?
During the initial stages, wearing stronger glasses, using a magnifying glass, and turning on more lights may be enough. As the condition worsens, it will begin to seriously impair your vision and affect your daily life. Once cataracts are hindering your ability to read, drive, watch TV or recognize faces, you should seriously consider surgery.
Make sure to contact our eye clinic if you suspect you have cataracts. Our LOCATION1 eye doctors will evaluate your eye health and vision and carefully examine your lens for signs of cataract formation. If a cataract is detected and the clouding is causing visual disruption, it’s time for cataract surgery.
What Is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery removes your natural cloudy lens and replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to improve and restore vision. This common and very safe procedure is performed by an eye doctor (ophthalmologist) on an outpatient basis.
- The eye surgeon (ophthalmologist) will perform cataract surgery on one eye at a time. That means that you will come in for another surgery on the second eye. The procedure is brief and typically takes 30 to 45 minutes to complete.
- The eye doctor will place drops into your eyes to numb them and dilate your pupils. Though you’ll be conscious during the procedure, you may be offered a sedative to help you remain calm. The eye surgeon will then remove your natural lens and replace it with the IOL. You should feel no pain or discomfort thanks to the anesthetic.
Types of Intraocular Lenses
Fixed focus monofocal
These lenses provide distance or near vision. People who are farsighted and haven’t had the near vision lens inserted will still need reading glasses after surgery.
Multifocal
Lenses provide a smooth transition between distance, intermediate, and near vision— sometimes eliminating the need for glasses.
Accommodating focus monofocal
These lenses provide distance vision only. However, this IOL works in conjunction with the eye muscles to allow for a smooth transition between distance and close-up work, sometimes making glasses unnecessary.
Astigmatic (toric) correction
These lenses are used for high degrees of astigmatism.
There is also an IOL that can block out harmful ultraviolet and blue light rays to protect your retinal health.
Several days before your surgery, your eye doctor will measure the size and shape of your eye and will discuss your lifestyle and daily activities to better determine the most appropriate IOL for your needs.
Cataract Surgery - What to Expect
What to Expect on the Day of Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, so you do not have to stay in the hospital overnight. The procedure generally takes less than an hour and is relatively painless. You will remain awake throughout the procedure, but may be given a sedative to help you feel relaxed. After you are administered a local anesthetic, your eye doctor will remove the cloudy lens and carefully insert the IOL in the correct position.
What to Expect After Cataract Surgery
Following the surgery, Opthalmology Doctor Name will prescribe antibiotic drops to prevent infection. While most people experience some soreness or itching postoperatively, try not to rub or put pressure on your eye. Some eye doctors even recommend wearing a patch for a few days to protect your eye while it heals. To further help you heal, certain movements and activities that involve bending and lifting will be temporarily restricted.
You will most likely notice improved vision within a day or two, along with increased vibrancy and sharpness of color. Total healing usually requires 6 to 8 weeks.
What Can You Expect Going Forward?
The vast majority of people who undergo cataract surgery are satisfied with the outcome. Not only are they thrilled to have sharper and clearer vision, but are also pleased with the overall improvement in their lifestyle. Only once their “new” vision sets in do they notice the series of adjustments they previously made to accommodate their deteriorating vision. After surgery, you will find that you can resume activities that you previously enjoyed and regain your quality of life. Driving, reading, playing cards, and watching television will no longer be a chore.
With improved vision following cataract surgery, seniors display a much lower risk of falls, thus reducing the incidence of hip fractures and similar injuries.
Want to See Clearly Again?
If you are considering cataract surgery, our eye doctors and the warm, friendly staff at Opthalmology Practice Name in LOCATION1 will be happy to address all questions and concerns you may have. Please feel free to be in touch and schedule your appointment today.
