1) What is a cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens in the eye which affects vision. Most cataracts are related to aging.
2) What are the symptoms of a cataract?
-Cloudy or blurry vision
-Colors seem faded
-Glare or a halo around lights
-Frequent prescription changes to eye glasses
3) How is a cataract detected?
Cataract is detected through a comprehensive eye exam that includes a visual acuity test, a dilated eye exam, and tonometry(an instrument measures the pressure inside the eye).
4) When should I have cataract surgery?
A cataract needs to be removed when vision loss interferes with your daily activities, such as driving, reading, or watching TV. You and your ophthalmologist can make this decision together. Once you understand the benefits and risks of surgery, you can make an informed decision about whether cataract surgery is right for you.
5) What happens to the lens?
The natural lens is surgically removed, it usually is replaced by an artificial lens, called an intraocular lens, or an IOL.
Unlike many years ago, today you have different lens options to choose from. Lens selection can be frustrating because of these multiple options. Two important factors to consider when choosing your artificial lens; type and power of the lens. Personal factors to consider when choosing your lens:
-Daily activities that you would like to do without glasses or contacts is possible?
-Can you afford the higher lens option?
-How far would you like to see most clearly without glasses or contacts?
Lens options:
- Monofocal: Gives you one range of vision. You may need glasses to see up close or at another range.
- Multifocal: This option gives you the ability to see distance, intermediate, and near without being dependent on glasses.
- Extended Depth of Focus: Provides high quality, continuous vision — from near too far and points in between — and may reduce the overall wearing of glasses.
- Toric: Correct astigmatism.
- The Light Adjustable Lens: this allows optimization of your vision after lens implantation and healing. If you and your doctor select the Light Adjustable Lens, the first step is to have your cataract safely removed and the adjustable IOL implanted. The cataract removal and IOL implantation procedure is the same as if you selected a non-adjustable IOL. Click for more information on RX Sight LAL.
With today’s technology, your surgeon can safely remove your cataract and implant a replacement lens to restore your vision. To learn more about lens options click here .
For more information on cataract surgery visit www.griffineyecenter.com or call (843) 449-6414.