What is a cataract?

A cataract is clouding of the natural lens of the eye. As the cataract worsens, the quality or sharpness of vision may deteriorate, especially in very bright or very dim light. Cataracts are common with age and can occur in one or both eyes. The clouding of the lens usually happens slowly over time, although, it can happen very quickly in some cases.

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What causes cataracts?

Often cataracts are a part of the aging process of the eye. It has been estimated that 80% of people over the age of 60 will develop some degree of cataract. Less commonly, cataracts may develop due to eye injuries or other diseases such as diabetes or inflammatory conditions of the eye. Certain medicines have also been shown to increase the risk of cataract formation. For many people this leads to a gradual loss of the ability to see clearly. Although cataracts can not yet be prevented or reversed, when they are visually significant they can be removed with today's modern techniques of cataract surgery.

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What are the symptoms of cataract?

The most common first symptom of cataract is a gradual blurring of vision. This may produce increasing difficulty while reading or seeing street signs while driving. Colors may become more difficult to distinguish and glare from sunshine or headlights may become increasingly bothersome. If you experience any of these symptoms, our doctors would be happy to perform a complete eye exam in order determine if you are developing cataracts, and to discuss your options.

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How are cataracts treated?

In the early stages cataracts may simply cause a change in glasses prescription. When cataracts progress to the point where normal activities are affected and vision is impaired, surgery may become necessary in order to restore normal visual function.

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What is Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery involves removal of the clouded natural lens and implantation of an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This is outpatient surgery and patients usually return home within an hour or two of their surgery. The surgery is performed with local anesthesia or topical anesthetic drops. After the anesthetic, the cataract is removed and the intraocular lens implant is placed through a small, 3-millimeter incision, which seals without the need for sutures.

Most patients are able to resume most of their normal activities within a few days of their surgery. Recovery is usually complete in 3 to 4 weeks. Typically, antibiotic and anti-inflammatory drops are prescribed during the post-operative period to prevent infection and speed recovery. New glasses, if necessary, are usually prescribed in the third or fourth week after surgery.

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