Cataract Surgery

What is a cataract?

A cataract is a cloudy area in the lens of the eye. Normally, our lens are clear and able to focus light into the eye with no problems. When we develop cataracts, some of this light becomes blocked or scattered. As the cataracts develop, it becomes harder for us to see.

Most people with cataracts have them in both eyes. Frequently, though, one eye may be more advanced than the other because each cataract develops at a different pace.

Cataracts are a normal part of aging. About half of Americans between the ages of 65 and 75 have cataracts while those of us over 75 are almost 90 percent certain to develop the condition.

Along the coastal areas of Newport Beach, Corona del Mar, Huntington Beach – and other beach areas, the incidence of cataracts tends to run a bit above the national average due to the never-ending effects of the Sun’s UV rays and the reality that a larger percentage of the population is further along in years.

As a general rule, you may be developing cataracts if you have problems with glare from lamps, sun, or reflections of light. Also – you may notice changes in how colors appear – as well as foggy vision, fuzzy vision, or vision that has become cloudy and filmy. In some cases, cataract patients experience double vision and also find that their eye prescription is changing frequently.

Cataracts are usually spotted during routine eye exams by our eye care professionals. Your pupils are dilated and then a bright light is used to examine the lens. Other tests such as glare tests, contrast sensitivity test, and vision tests may be used to help confirm the diagnosis.

Cataracts are ultimately treated surgically – by removing the lens and replacing them with implant lens. Functionally, this is a lot like contact lens – except permanent. Surgery isn’t always the first thing to do, however. Often a change in your glasses may be treatment enough.

What are the symptoms of a cataract?

In the earliest stages of a cataract, you may notice you are increasingly bothered by glare from the sun or lights. Colors may appear less bright than normal.

Other common symptoms of a cataract include:

• Foggy vision
• Fuzzy vision
• Double vision

Even with prescription glasses or contacts, you may notice your vision isn’t very clear most of the time.

When any of these issues begin affecting you, you must schedule a diagnostic evaluation at Astorino & Associates Eye Center as soon as possible. Your provider can confirm cataracts during a routine exam and decide if cataract surgery is needed.

How does cataract surgery fix my vision?

In many cases, you may gain improvement in your vision with a change in your glasses or contacts prescription. However, if the lens of your eye is severely cloudy, and you can’t work or go about your usual routine, you may need cataract surgery.

Your provider may also recommend surgery if you’re receiving treatment for another eye condition, and a cataract interferes with your ophthalmic exam.

Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lenses from your eyes and replacing them with a clear implant, known as an intraocular lens (IOL). IOLs help focus light on the back of your eye to help you see clearly. Your provider inserts the permanent lens into your eye, and you won’t be able to see or feel it. Many premium IOLs are available, including Alcon PanOptix®, a high-grade, trifocal lens.

As an outpatient procedure, cataract surgery requires only small incisions to remove and insert the lenses. While you can go home to rest after the treatment, you will need a friend or family member to drive you.

What can I expect after cataract surgery?

Your provider may prescribe antibiotic drops to prevent infection, and your eyes begin healing soon after surgery. It’s common for your eyes to feel itchy and uncomfortable, but you must not rub them or put pressure on your eyes.

Initially, you may still have blurry vision, which continues to clear in the days after surgery. In addition to sharper vision, you also notice that colors are more vibrant.

You can expect to return to Astorino & Associates Eye Center for follow-up visits, so your provider can monitor your healing progress and evaluate your vision.

If you have concerns about blurry vision or noticeable cataracts, schedule a consultation at Astorino & Associates Eye Center today by phone or with the online booking feature.