Cataract Surgery

About Cataracts

A cataract is a progressive clouding of the eye's natural lens that interferes with light passing through the retina. Sufferers usually describe the condition as being similar to looking through a waterfall, or piece of wax paper, with a gradual blurring or dimming of vision. Cataracts can be attributed to the aging process, eye trauma, heredity, diabetes and even some medications. Formations occur at different rates and can affect one or both of your eyes at the same time.

Advanced Surgical Techniques

The best way to treat your cataract is to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a new, clear artificial lens. There are two procedures that can accomplish this, one called extracapsular cataract extraction (ECCE) and phaco (phacoemulsification) surgery. Each one is outlined below:

ECCE surgery involves:

• Making an incision of 10 to 12 millimeters in length.
• Removing the cloudy lens in one piece.

Phaco surgery involves:

• Making an incision of 3.2 millimeters or less in length.
• Inserting a small ultrasonic probe into the eye.
• Probe breaks (emulsifies) the cloudy lens into tiny pieces
• Probe aspirates the pieces

Your surgeon will determine which method is most appropriate for your condition.

Anesthesia

Both types of surgeries will require either a local or topical anesthesia. The differences between the two are:

Local Anesthesia

• Eliminates any sensation of pain;
• Prevents movement of the eye during surgery.

Topical Anesthesia

• Drops are placed in your eye;
• Eliminates any sensation of pain;
• Does not prevent your eye from moving around.

You are fully awake and aware during the operation with both types of anesthesia. Your surgeon will determine which type is best for you based on both the type of procedure and the condition of your eye.

Replacement Lenses

After the doctor removes your cataract, he or she will have to replace it with a permanent, artificial lens called an intraocular lens, or IOL. There are currently two types available: nonfoldable and foldable. Foldable lenses allow the surgeon to place the new lens through the same incision if he or she performed the phaco procedure. Advancements in the material of the lens allow for greater compatibility with eye tissue contributing to the excellent long-term visual results.

Successful Cataract Surgery

Everyone heals somewhat differently, but many cataract patients report improvement in their vision almost immediately after the procedure. Most patients return to their normal work and lifestyle routines shortly after surgery.

The Choice Is Yours

It can take months or years for a cataract to develop. How do you know when it is time to have a cataract removed? The answer is quite simple. The time to have your cataract removed is when you believe your quality of life would be better if you could see better. Only you can decide when it is time to open your eyes to a bright, clear world.

Call today to schedule an appointment.