What are Cataracts?
In the eye, the natural crystalline lens focuses light rays on the retina to produce an image. At birth, the lens is clear. With time, the lens starts to get cloudy and obstruct light. This cloudy lens is known as a cataract and can diminish vision. The prevalence of cataracts increases with age; more than 50 percent of people over age 55 have these lens opacities and over 70 percent of those over age 75 have this condition.
Visionary Ophthalmology is the right place for your cataract treatment and surgery. Our Surgeons have being performing cataract surgery for more than 20 years.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
There are a number of symptoms that may lead you to suspect a cataract is developing: blurred, cloudy, foggy or filmy vision with reduction of visual acuity. Problems with glare, or light sensitivity. Double vision. Poor night vision.
How is a cataract diagnosed?
All that is needed to find a cataract is a regular eye exam. One of our eye care specialists at Visionary Ophthalmology can detect the presence and extent of your lens opacity as well as any other condition that may be causing blurred vision or discomfort.
What does cataract treatment consist of?
Cataract treatment normally consists of cataract surgery. During cataract surgery, the lens of the eye is removed and replaced by a new, artificial lens. In most cataract surgeries, an intraocular lens (IOL) is used.
How effective is cataract surgery?
The American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) states that 98 percent of all cataract surgeries have positive results. Most patients report improved vision and few complications after cataract treatment.
What are the risks of cataract surgery ?
Cataract surgery risks are few but should be considered by any patient considering cataract treatment. Although rare, the possible risks of surgery include bleeding, retinal detachment, severe corneal edema, permanent dilation of the pupil, and even loss of vision. Other complications include the development of astigmatism and drooping of the upper eyelid, both of which are treatable. At Visionary Ophthalmology we have more than 20 years of experience In Cataract surgery, and we will make every effort to minimize the chance for any problems during or after surgery.
Will I need glasses after cataract surgery?
Some patients may need glasses after undergoing cataract surgery, but many experience clear vision at distance and near ranges with intraocular lens implants such as ReSTOR® and ReZoom™. Our Doctors at Visionary Ophthalmology will be able to determine which of these options is best for you based on your current vision and goals.
What is Advance technology Intraocular Lens (IOL) ?
The advanced technology IOL is a new, state-of-the-art type of intraocular lens that can provide a full range of vision, from near to distance, in most patients. The procedure for removing the natural lens and implanting the IOL is the same one that’s been used for years in cataract surgery, but the result is a full range of vision, significantly reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses.
What makes Advanced Technology IOLS different from Ordinary Intraocular Lenses?
Unlike an ordinary IOL, the advanced technology IOL can focus on objects near and far.
ReSTOR® and ReZoom™ lenses have a special surface design that brings near and distant objects into focus without muscle assistance. All the lenses are intended to provide patients a fuller range of vision, reducing the need for corrective lenses. With ordinary IOLs, most people must rely on glasses or contact lenses for middle and near vision.
Do Advanced Technology IOLS provide 20/20 vision for both reading and distance?
Advanced technology IOLs were created to provide a fuller range of vision, near to distance. Nearly everyone will find their uncorrected vision significantly better after surgery, but some will not see 20/20 through the full range of vision.
Preexisting ocular and physiological factors may prevent full range 20/20 vision. At Visionary Ophthalmology we will advise you of any conditions that may affect the outcome of your individual surgery.
Am I a good candidate for Advanced Technology IOL vision enhancement?
Most people in good general health are good candidates for advanced technology IOLs. Some patients may require an enhancement procedure by laser vision correction or other technology to achieve the best result. Those with uncontrolled diabetes, chronic infections, and certain other health problems should not have lens replacement surgery until these conditions are under control.
How long does the procedure last? Is it painful?
The actual implanting of the advanced technology IOL takes about 20 minutes; the whole visit to the surgical center usually takes less than two hours. The patient arrives about an hour before the procedure and is given medication to induce relaxation and eye drops to anesthetize the eye and dilate the pupil.During the procedure, the old lens is removed and the new lens implant is inserted through a tiny incision. There is a sensation of pressure on the eye, but little or no pain.
After surgery, more eye drops are applied to prevent infection, and decrease inflammation. A protective patch is usually placed over the eye. Once home, the patient should rest and avoid any strenuous activities. The doctor will examine the eye the next day and advise the patient on the appropriate course of recovery, which will include continuing eye drops for a few weeks and avoiding strain on the eye until it is thoroughly healed.
What is the likelihood of complications, and what might they be?
Advanced technology IOLs are revolutionary because, unlike ordinary IOLs, they provide multifocal vision. The standard cataract surgical procedure is performed on more than a million eyes each year, and has proven extremely safe. However, there is always a chance of complication with even the most routine surgery.
Most complications, such as minor infections, inflammation, and irritation, are temporary and easily treated. Serious sight-threatening complications, such as serious infection, hemorrhaging, or retinal detachment, are extremely rare. Complications are more likely in patients with diabetes and high blood pressure, and those who suffer from chronic inflammation and infections.
How soon after lens implant surgery will I be able to resume normal activity?
Most patients require only a few days to resume normal activities, with some limitations and adjustments. Some sensitivity to touch and bright lights should not deter most patients from driving and returning to work.
Patients are given medications to prevent infection and control inflammation. A protective shield is advisable while sleeping; sunglasses can provide protection during the day.
For several days after surgery, patients should avoid any heavy lifting or straining, which can increase pressure in the eye. Rubbing or pushing of the eye, and any situation that could result in being hit in the eye, are also to be avoided. Careful showering and shampooing are permitted, as long as no soap or shampoo touches the eye. Any makeup around the eye should be avoided for several weeks. Public swimming pools, hot tubs, and other potential sources of bacterial contamination should also be avoided.
Do multifocal lenses require an adjustment period?
Yes. For most people there is a period of weeks when your brain is learning to “see” up-close and at a distance with the new lens. This adjustment period is usually complete within 10 to 12 weeks. Also, like all multifocal lenses, some people report halos or glare around lights. Again, for most people this diminishes over time. For some, it becomes less troublesome but never completely goes away. Most people report that the ability to see near and far outweighs any visual side effects associated with the lens.
Is advanced technology IOL surgery cover by insurance?
Most private insurance covers the cataract surgical procedure and the anesthesia, but may cover only a portion of the cost of an advanced technology IOL, since it costs more and is considered non-standard.
Patients should consult with both the doctor and the insurance carrier to determine their best alternatives. At Visionary Ophthalmoloy we have financial options. Visit our Cataract Financing
