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Cataracts What is it?A cataract is a clouding of the transparent part inside the eye called the lens. It is located behind the iris (the colored part of the eye); it is not a film that grows across the eye. For some individuals, a cataract develops quickly and a person notices symptoms. For others, the cataract develops very slowly and presents no additional problems to their normal daily routine. What symptoms are usually associated with a cataract?Cataracts may be affecting your vision if you experience some or any one of the following symptoms.
If a cataract is causing symptoms, an examination will be performed to determine the health of the eye and the degree of the cataract development. Tests will be conducted to measure distance and near vision; night and peripheral vision; and the degree to which glare affects the eye. With this complete examination, you will acquire an understanding of your particular situation and be given your treatment options. What options are available once a cataract has been determined?Unfortunately, if a cataract is present and affecting your vision, there is no medicine or eyedrops that can be taken to make a cataract go away. Surgical removal of the lens is the only effective treatment for a visually significant cataract. How is the surgical removal of a cataract accomplished?To replace the eye's natural lens, a very small incision (less than 3mm) is made on the white of the eye. An opening is made in the thin clear sac, or capsule, that the cataractous lens is in. A special piece of equipment that provides ultrasonic vibrations breaks apart the natural lens and vacuums it from the eye. A foldable implant is then inserted through the small incision. Once inside, the implant unfolds and is placed into a permanent position in the empty capsular sac. The incision that was created to allow this procedure to take place is so miniscule that it seals itself and no stitches are usually required. Do I need to be hospitalized for this procedure?This procedure is done on an outpatient basis and using topical eyedrops. In most cases, the patient can arrive at the surgical center, have the cataract procedure, and be walking back into their own home within a span of a few hours. Are there risks associated with cataract surgery?Every year, 2.5 million Americans have cataract surgery. It is the number one therapeutic surgical procedure for those over the age of 65. With that said, there are risks involved with any surgical procedure. Your physician will discuss them with you in greater detail during your examination, but the possibility of infection is always a concern. You will be asked to use an antibiotic eyedrop to help eliminate the potential for developing a problem. How often will I need to see the doctor after the surgery is completed?At Eye Care Associates, we routinely see our post-operative cataract patients at 1 day, 1 week, 1 month, and 3-6 month visits. Once they are through the post-operative period, a yearly examination will be recommended.
For more information, please contact the patient advisor by phone at 330-747-2733 or by email at info@eyecareassociates.com.
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Disclaimer: The intent of this website is to educate users about eye care. Information found on this website is not intended to replace medical advice. Questions about treatment information should be addressed by your physician. |