Southeast Eye Clinic: Specializing in Medical and Surgical Eye Care for Children and Adults

Cataracts

Cataract surgery is one of the most frequently performed and successful surgeries in the United States. You’ll be able to return to normal activities almost immediately.
List of Cataract Terms >

Answer:

A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens of the eye. Once the lens becomes cloudy it prevents proper passage of light through the eye causing vision to be blurred. Cataracts are the leading cause of poor vision in adults. Unfortunately, there is no way to prevent the development of cataracts and everyone will eventually develop them.

  • Blurry vision
  • Glare or halos around lights
  • Colors appear less vibrant
  • Frequent changing of glasses

The only effective treatment of a cataract is to have the cloudy lens surgically removed. Cataract surgery is advised to be performed when the cataract starts interfering with your normal everyday activities. This decision is made by the ophthalmologist and the patient together.

Today’s cataract surgery is done as an outpatient procedure. After the cloudy lens has been removed an intraocular lens implant (or IOL) is then used to replace the natural lens. You will be able to return to normal activities almost immediately and even lift and bend the next day.

There are many advances in lens implants. In addition to the standard monofocal implants (corrective of vision at one distance only, whether near, intermediate, or far) there are multi-focal lens implants (which correct vision at multiple ranges, without the use of glasses or regular contact lenses). Your doctor will assist you in determining which is best for you.

For more information about multi-focal lenses visit:

  • Procedure takes less time and is more comfortable for patients
  • Less anxiety for patient knowing they will not receive an injection
  • Reduces potential complication rate
  • Reduces the chance for an anesthesia-induced allergic reaction
  • Eliminates the potential for postoperative headaches
  • Eliminates the need for an eye patch during the day
  • Visual and overall recovery begins immediately

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