By the age of 80, about 50% of people will develop a cataract. A cataract results when proteins in the eye clump and cause the natural lens in the eye to become cloudy.
Reasons to Correct Cataracts with Surgery
In time, performing everyday tasks and activities with cataracts becomes frustrating due to symptoms such as:
- blurry vision
- seeing double
- light sensitivity
- trouble seeing at night
- color distortion
Without treatment, loss of vision may progress to the point of complete blindness. Thankfully, the surgery to fix cataracts is generally quick and painless.
What to Expect When Having Cataract Surgery
cataract surgery as a minimally invasive procedure that involves numbing the eyes with anesthesia and then making a tiny incision into which a small needle-like probe is inserted.
- First, the surgeon (your ophthalmologist) makes tiny incisions in the eye. Typically, these small incisions simply close up without requiring stitches.
- Then an ultrasonic is used to break the lens into tiny pieces which are suctioned out.
- Finally, an artificial lens or Intraocular Lens (IOL) is inserted into the eye.
After a brief waiting period in the recovery room, the patient can go home with a shield over the operated eye.
Cataract Surgery Follow-Up Care and Outcome
Follow-up care involves using eye drops for a short time and a few visits to the ophthalmologist. Most patients experience a rapid recovery. They are so pleased about their sharp, clear vision that they are enthusiastic about having their other cataract done.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) Ophthalmology studied over 70,000 women over time and found that cataract surgery was associated with decreased risk of mortality from all causes aggregately.
Dr. Robert Scharfman is committed to excellence in patient care and compassion. Atlantic Medical Eye Care has served the community for over 25 years. Contact us for more information or to schedule an appointment.
Answers to Your Questions About Cataract Surgery
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