Understanding Cataracts

When the eye works normally, light rays pass through the cornea and pupil to the lens, a clear, colorless body just behind the pupil. The lens then focuses light on the retina lining the back of the eye. This creates images and enables us to see.

A cataract is the clouding of the eye's lens, interfering with normal vision. This clouding can be caused by the normal aging process, injuries to the eye, certain diseases, heredity and birth defects. Usually, a cataract develops gradually over the years. Cataracts may develop in both eyes at the same time. Symptoms can include blurry vision, lights seem too bright or having a "halo" effect, double vision in one eye, decreased night vision, dull or fading colors.

Treatment to Restore Vision

With the patient, Dr. Denman will probably decide to remove the cataract when it begins to affect the comfort and activities of daily living. Surgery is the only effective way to remove the lens. While there are risks with any surgery, cataract surgery is recognized as one of the safest, most successful, most frequently performed procedures.

After the cataract is removed by phacoemulsification, a clear plastic lens is surgically placed in the eye to substitute for the removed clouded lens. The IOL is permanent and maintenance-free, with a proven success record. Usually, prescription glasses are also needed to best restore vision.

Intraocular Lens Options:

• Single-Focal Lens Implants - most patients find monofocal lenses the ideal choice. Monofocal means the lens will assist with clarity at one distance - far away, intermediate or close-up. Glasses are typically necessary in conjunction with the single-focal lens implant.
  

• Premium* Toric Lens Implants - these lens implants are used to correct astigmatism.
  

• Premium* Multi-Focal Lens Implants - multi-focal lenses are now available offering the possibility of seeing well at more than one distance without the addition of glasses. Dr. Denman and Dr. Mace will discuss which option is best for each patient in the initial consultation.
  

What to Expect During Surgery
Before surgery, you will receive a series of eye drops to dilate the eye. You will then be given a local anesthesia by Dr. Denman. An anesthesiologist (MD anesthesia specialist) will be in attendance during your surgery.

Once the anesthesia takes effect, Dr. Denman will make a small incision in the cornea of the eye and remove the lens. The intraocular lens will be implanted at this time. Then, Dr. Denman will close the incision and place an eye shield over the eye.

Recovery
Patients typically return home the same day as their cataract surgery. Dr. Denman will provide post-op instructions at that time regarding the care of your eye and schedule follow-up visits, usually starting with the next day.

*Costs for premium lenses are not covered by insurances.

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