What are Cataracts?
A cataract is a clouding of all or part of the normally clear natural lens. This can results in blurred or distorted vision.
Who gets Cataracts?
Cataracts are most often found in persons over age 55; however, cataracts occasionally are detected in patients of all ages.
Diagnosis
While the cause of cataracts remains uncertain it is known that a chemical change occurs within your eye to cause the lens to become cloudy. This may be due to advancing age, heredity, an injury, or disease. Excessive exposure to ultraviolet radiation in sunlight, cigarette smoking, or the use of certain medications are also risk factors for the development of cataracts.
Although cataracts develop without pain or discomfort, there are some indications that a cataract may be forming. These include blurred or hazy vision, the appearance of spots in front of the eyes, increased sensitivity to glare or the feeling of having a film over the eyes. A temporary improvement in near vision may also indicate formation of a cataract.
Treatment
If your cataract develops to the point that it affects your daily activities, your eye specialist may recommend surgery. During the surgery, the eye’s natural lens is removed and an intraocular lens implant is placed inside the eye.
Lens Implant Options
Technology has evolved dramatically giving patients several options to increase visual expectations and decrease dependence on glasses after surgery. All lens types are of equal quality and provide different levels of function. Our qualified staff and doctors will help you choose the lens implant best suited to your visual needs. Medicare and other insurances usually cover Monofocal lenses. Toric and Multifocal lenses are only partially covered through insurance. Please review the description of the lenses and their benefits to you after surgery.
Extended Depth Of Focus Symfony Lens
The Extended Depth-of-Focus IOL provided continuous full range of vision allowing you to see clear at near, intermediate and far distances.
Multifocal Intraocular Lenses
Monofocals are the standard lenses covered by insurance. They will not correct astigmatism or presbyopia. Glasses will be required after surgery.
Toric Intraocular LensesToric lenses correct astigmatism. They will reduce the need for distance glasses after surgery, but not reading glasses. These lenses are not fully covered by insurance.
