Cataract Specialist

What are cataracts?

Cataracts describes a condition that occurs when your own natural lens become clouded, preventing light from reaching the light-sensitive retina at the back of your eye and decreasing vision. Cataracts occur much more commonly as we age, although some cataracts can develop as a result of injury and a few may be present at birth. In age-related cataracts, clouding occurs when proteins present in the lens begin to stick together, forming a dense barrier to light.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

The most common symptoms of cataracts include a gradual inability to see clearly, especially for close-up work like reading, as well as blurry vision and glare. Some people may see halos, or light circles, around lights or find colors begin to appear faded or less distinct.

How are cataracts treated?

Cataracts are treated with a simple surgical process that removes the clouded lens and replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens, or IOL. The new lens functions the same as your natural lens, allowing light to reach your retina so you can have clear vision again. Cataract surgery is one of the most common types of surgery performed today. It uses a special extraction method to safely and effectively break up the cloudy lens so it can be removed from the eye using gentle suction. Then the new lens is put in place. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis right in the office.

What kinds of prescription IOLs are available?

Today's intraocular lenses are more advanced than ever, which means patients enjoy better, clearer eyesight for near, far and intermediate vision needs. Three of the most popular lenses include Crystalens, Technis and ReSTOR. Each IOL works differently, and the choice of an IOL will be made following a comprehensive evaluation of your vision needs.