Understanding Cataracts: Causes, Symptoms & Treatment Options
For most people, the lens of one or both eyes gradually becomes cloudy, causing blurry or dim vision. This common eye condition is known as a cataract. According to the National Eye Institute, more than half of Americans either develop cataracts or undergo cataract surgery by the age of 80. Cataracts can affect one or both eyes, but importantly, they do not spread from one eye to the other.
How Cataracts Progress
Cataracts typically worsen over time. In the early stages, your vision may still be clear enough to be managed with glasses or contact lenses. However, as the cataract progresses, vision may become so blurred that it interferes with daily activities such as driving, reading, or recognizing faces. When cataracts begin to impact your independence or quality of life, it may be time to consider cataract surgery.
Laser Cataract Surgery: Advanced Treatment for Clear Vision
The only definitive treatment for advanced cataracts is surgical removal of the clouded lens. Laser cataract surgery is a modern, precise method that offers enhanced safety and accuracy compared to traditional surgery.
Our experienced ophthalmologists use advanced laser technology to carefully remove the cataract-diseased lens and prepare your eye for a new artificial lens implant. This outpatient procedure is generally quick, safe, and effective at restoring vision.
[Read more about Laser Cataract Surgery]
Cataract Surgery Procedure: What to Expect
During cataract surgery, your ophthalmologist removes the cloudy natural lens and replaces it with a clear, artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). The surgery typically takes less than an hour and is performed on an outpatient basis.
Your eye will be numbed, and the pupil dilated before the procedure. Most patients experience little discomfort and rapid recovery following surgery.
[Read more about Cataract Surgery]
Choosing the Right Intraocular Lens (IOL)
After cataract removal, selecting the appropriate intraocular lens is essential to restoring your vision and addressing your specific visual needs.
There are various IOL options available, including lenses designed to correct astigmatism, near vision, and distance vision. Your ophthalmologist will discuss the best IOL choice tailored to your lifestyle and vision goals.
[Read more about Intraocular Lenses]
When to Schedule Cataract Surgery
If you notice increasing blurriness, glare while driving, difficulty reading, or trouble recognizing faces, it may be time to consult your eye care professional about cataracts and possible surgery.
Early evaluation ensures the best outcome and helps preserve your vision for years to come.
Contact us today to schedule a comprehensive eye exam and find out if cataract surgery is right for you. Regain clear vision and improve your quality of life with expert care and advanced technology.
Read more eye health articles!
Your go-to resource for easy-to-understand eye health tips, latest eye health information, and practical advice to help you protect and care for your vision every day.