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'Care FREE' Cataract Surgery
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A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. This clouding is usually the result of aging, but some very young patients develop cataracts for different reasons. Injuries, certain diseases, and some medications may cause cataracts. Cataracts prevent light from passing through the lens to the back of the eye, or retina. Much like the lens of a camera focuses light on the camera's film, the lens of your eye focuses light on the eye's retina. If the front of your camera's lens becomes dirty or fogged, then the picture taken will be hazy or blurred. A cataract causes light focusing on the retina of your eye to be blurred in a similar manner. Modern cataract surgery involved removal of the clouded lens and replacing it with a new, clear artificial lens of which there are many types to fit all needs. One of the newest, high-tech lenses is the AcrySof ReSTOR multifocal lens. This lens offers the ability to focus for near and distance vision so that most patients can read, use a computer, watch TV and drive without having to use glasses. In fact, 80% of ReSTOR patients used no glasses. There are also lenses fixed for one distance, usually either driving or reading, and this can be done so that one eye sees best off in the distance and the other eye can read; this is called Monovision. Other multifocal lenses include the AMO Array and the AMO ReZoom lens. The Eyeonics Crystalens is a lens designed to accommodate (change shape) to be able to focus at varying distances; this lens has had mixed reviews and seems not to work as predictably as the ReSTOR lens.
You may notice problems with your vision at any time during the development of cataracts. Generally, as a cataract develops, there is a dimming or blurring of vision. This is sometimes first noticed as difficulty seeing while driving, particularly at night, or difficulty in reading small print or sewing. A glare or halo may appear to surround objects exposed to bright light. Many people feel as though a film is covering the eye. However, a cataract is not a growth or film on the outside of the eye, but a clouding within the lens inside the eye, so a cataract can only be removed surgically. Once cataracts are removed, you should again be able to enjoy many of your favorite activities such as reading, needlework, visiting friends and enjoying your grandchild's smile.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What if I have cataracts in both eyes?
A: Your second eye can be treated once your first eye is reasonably stable. This usually requires a week or two, and varies from person to person.
Q: Do cataracts come back?
A: No, your original cataract will not recur, but a second type of clouding can occur after cataract surgery. This can occur when a cloudy membrane develops behind the lens implant.This is usually treated with a YAG laser.
Q: How long will it be before I can see well after surgery?
A: You will begin to see the first day after surgery, but vision will gradually improve over the next several days and weeks. . |
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