A cataract is a condition in which the lens of the eye turns cloudy. It has long been the most common cause of blindness in the world. In the United States, 75 percent of all people over the age of 60 show signs of cataracts as a normal consequence of aging. Other factors can also contribute to cataract development. These include genetics, excessive UV exposure, diabetes, some medications, and other eye diseases.
The good news is that a lens with cataracts can be easily replaced with a new, clear lens.
CATARACT SYMPTOMS
Cataracts are often difficult to detect at first, because they develop slowly and without pain. However, these are some symptoms to watch for:
- Blurred or hazy vision
- Washed out greens and blues
- Difficulty reading small print
- Increased sensitivity to light and glare
- Ghost images
- Double vision in one eye
- "Halos" around lights
WHEN TO TAKE ACTION
Your cataract should be removed when you decide that enhanced vision will improve your quality of life. In many people, the symptoms listed above develop slowly, and the early stages of cataract development do not prevent normal activities. As the cataract matures, life can become difficult, and you will know that the time has come to remove them from your eyes. Together with Dr. Owczarek, you will make the best decisions for you and your eyes.
HOW CATARACTS ARE TREATED
Fortunately, cataracts can be treated at the Cataract and Laser Center with a routine surgical procedure to restore clear vision by replacing the cloudy lens with a clear one. No hospital is involved. When you are ready for the procedure, your eye is first numbed with drops and held open with an eyelid holder to prevent blinking. Next, using state-of-the-art techniques, Dr. Owczarek makes a microscopic incision into the eye and removes the cataract through it. He then inserts a new lens through the same opening, and the incision automatically seals itself and heals without needles or stitches. During the process, pre-existing refractive errors, including astigmatism, are corrected along with the cataract.
BENEFITS OF THE CATARACT AND LASER CENTER
- Convenient scheduling allows for examinations and cataract surgery the same day
- After preparing the eye, the surgery is typically over in only a few minutes
- No need to skip medication or meals the day of surgery
- No need to undress for surgery
- No needles or stitches are required; only eye drops are used to numb the eye
- No extra costs for anesthesia, laboratory testing or x-rays
- Professional and courteous staff, dedicated to your eyes
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
How long does the surgery take?
The surgery itself is typically very short. However, the preparations before surgery can take 1 to 1.5 hours. Be prepared to spend up to two at the Cataract and Laser Center to allow for the complete process.
Because contact lenses can slightly change the shape of your eye, they should be removed and not worn for a number of days prior to any vision correction surgery. Soft contact lenses should be out for 5 days and gas permeable (hard) contact lenses for 3 weeks before the procedure.
Can I continue to take my medications?
Yes.
However, it is important to tell the staff what your prescriptions are and to inform them of any existing medical conditions.
What will happen after the surgery?
The next day, Dr. Owczarek will check your eyes. Two weeks later, you will come in for a second post-operative visit to make sure that your eyes have healed as they should.
When can I get back to my normal routine?
Right away!