Cataract Surgery
Cataracts are one of the most common causes of vision loss in people over age 40. Data shows that there are more patients with cataracts than there are with glaucoma, macular degeneration, or diabetic retinopathy combined.
The good news is, cataract surgery is a simple, low-risk procedure to remove cataracts and restore your vision. At Focus Eye Group in Thorndale and Berwyn, we use state-of-the-art technology to provide the most advanced treatment for cataracts.
If cataracts make it difficult to perform daily activities such as reading, writing, driving, or recognizing faces, it may be time to consider cataract removal. Contact us today to discuss your options for cataract surgery in Chester County!
What is a cataract?
A cataract occurs when the natural lens of the eye becomes clouded with proteins. The lens is a transparent, flexible piece of tissue located directly behind the iris, the colored part of your eye. Its primary function is to help focus light and images on your retina, so you can see clearly.
What causes cataracts?
As we grow older, the cells inside the eye start to deteriorate. As a result, protein in the lens may start to clump together and form a cataract. This natural “clouding” makes it difficult for light to pass through the lens, which can cause blurry vision. Over time, the cataract may worsen and result in additional vision loss.
The majority of cataracts are related to the aging process, but there are other risk factors such as diabetes, smoking, obesity, overexposure to UV light, alcohol abuse, eye injuries, and steroid use.
Types of cataracts
- The most common form of cataract is the nuclear cataract, which forms in the central area (nucleus) of the eye. Nuclear cataracts are almost always associated with the aging process.
- A subcapsular cataract develops at the back of the lens. People who have diabetes or who are taking large amounts of prescription steroids are more at risk for developing a subcapsular cataract.
- A cortical cataract occurs in the lens cortex, which is the area that surrounds the nucleus, or central part of the lens. Cortical cataracts are known for their opaque, white “spoke-like” shape, similar to the spokes on a wheel.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
In the early stages of cataract development, most patients don’t experience symptoms. As the cataracts progress, you may notice:
- Blurry or hazy vision
- Double vision
- Halos around lights
- Poor night vision
- Faded colors
- Yellowish vision
- Frequent prescription changes for eyeglasses or contacts
How are cataracts diagnosed?
The most effective way to diagnose cataracts is to have a comprehensive eye exam. Your eye doctor will dilate your pupils and perform a series of specialized tests to examine the lens of your eye. If a cataract is present, you will be informed of your options and a treatment plan will be recommended.
How do I know if I need cataract surgery?
It’s important to note that not all cataracts require immediate treatment — cataracts develop gradually over time, so it could take years for vision to worsen enough to necessitate cataract surgery. The best way to know if you need cataract surgery is to schedule a comprehensive eye exam. Only your doctor can determine which stage your cataracts are in and whether or not you’re a candidate for surgery.
What happens during cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery involves the surgical removal of the lens that contains a cataract. The clouded lens is then replaced with an artificial lens implant, also known as an intraocular lens (IOL).
At Focus Eye Group, we use advanced technology to perform cataract surgery, the most modern treatment option available for cataracts. The application of laser energy results in an ultra-precise corneal incision, which improves accuracy and safety for the patient. The procedure can be summarized in three steps:
- Step 1: Your surgeon create a tiny incision in the cornea and an opening in the lens capsule. Anesthetic eye drops are administered so you feel no pain.
- Step 2: A small instrument is inserted into the corneal opening to break up the lens with the cataract. The lens pieces are then removed.
- Step 3: The IOL is implanted in the eye and positioned properly. No stitches are required to close the corneal incision, as the cornea heals naturally on its own.
Cataract surgery is a simple outpatient procedure, so no hospital stay is required. The full surgery takes about 15 minutes to perform and patients can typically go home within 30 minutes of their procedure. Since it is dangerous to drive while your vision is impaired, we recommend scheduling a ride home from our cataract center in Thorndale.
Types of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
There are a wide variety of IOLs to choose from. Before cataract surgery, your doctor will discuss the options that best match your needs. Multiple factors are taken into consideration when recommending an IOL, such as your unique visual needs and lifestyle. In general, these are the most common types of IOLs:
- Multifocal IOLs – Considered a premium lens, multifocal IOLs allow for vision correction at near, intermediate, and far distances. For most patients, this eliminates the need for eyeglasses or contact lenses after surgery.
- Toric IOLs – Toric IOLs are specifically designed to correct astigmatism. But they do not provide clear vision at all distances.
- Monofocal IOLs – These lenses have been around the longest and are the most common choice for patients. The monofocal lens provides clear vision at one distance only, usually for distance vision. Reading glasses are typically required to see clearly up-close.
What happens after cataract surgery?
While complications after cataract surgery are rare, there are some risks to take into consideration. Some patients may experience inflammation, infection, bleeding, or swelling after the procedure. Your risk of complications increases if you have an eye disease or a health condition. If you have glaucoma or macular degeneration, your doctor may recommend treatment for those conditions before undergoing cataract surgery.
Cataract Surgery, Chester County, PA
Do you or a loved one have trouble completing tasks at home or at work because of blurry vision from cataracts? It may be time to consider cataract surgery. Don’t wait until your vision gets worse — schedule a consultation at our cataract center in Thorndale or Berwyn, PA!