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Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss for people over 40 and are one of the most
common causes of blindness. A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens inside the eye, which is behind the
pupil.
Cataracts develop when the proteins inside the lens begin to break down and clump together.
There are different kinds of cataracts, and each one can have different causes.
However, the most common cause of cataracts is the natural aging process. In most cases,
cataracts start small and develop slowly.
They may not even be noticeable at first, or you may notice a slight blur in your vision.
Cataracts often continue to worsen, and if left untreated, can cause significant interruption to your daily
life.
Many patients with cataracts don't realize they have them at first. If you have cataracts, you may experience signs like:
These symptoms can develop gradually, so you might not notice any changes in your vision when cataracts are first starting to form. Regular eye exams at one of our convenient locations in NY or PA can help detect cataracts early, even before you notice any changes in your vision.
An IOL, or Intraocular Lens, is an artificial lens that replaces your eye's natural lens during cataract surgery. They are small, clear discs made of materials like silicone or acrylic and are designed to improve your vision after the cloudy natural lens is removed.
IOLs work by bending light rays that enter your eye, helping them focus properly on the retina at the back of your eye. This process is similar to how your natural lens worked before it became cloudy due to cataracts. Unlike your natural lens, IOLs don't deteriorate over time. Once implanted, they become a permanent part of your eye, providing clear vision for years to come.
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At Community Eye Care Specialists, our experienced cataract surgeons offer a range of IOL options. Our team at one of our convenient locations in NY or PA will guide you through these options, helping you choose the IOL that best fits your visual needs and lifestyle.
Monofocal lenses are the most common type of IOL. These lenses provide clear vision at one distance, which most people choose far vision. While they effectively correct cataracts and distance vision, you may still need glasses for reading or computer work. Monofocal lenses are a great choice for those who don't mind wearing glasses for certain activities.
For patients with astigmatism, toric lenses may be the best option. These specialized IOLs not only replace your cloudy natural lens but also correct astigmatism. With a monofocal toric IOL, you're less likely to need glasses for distance vision after cataract surgery, although you may still require them for near tasks.
The PanOptix lens is a trifocal IOL that provides clear vision at multiple distances, including near, intermediate, and far. This lens can significantly reduce your dependence on glasses for most daily activities, from reading a book to working on a computer or driving a car.
The Vivity lens is an extended depth of focus lens that offers an extended range of vision, from distance to intermediate, with some near vision capability. It's designed to provide high-quality vision in various lighting conditions, making it an excellent choice for those with active lifestyles.
The Raynor EMV (Enhanced Monovision) lens is designed to provide a continuous range of vision from near to far, with excellent quality at all distances. It can be a great choice for patients who want to reduce their dependence on glasses for most activities.
Cataract surgery is a safe and quick procedure that typically takes about twenty minutes per eye. At Community Eye Care Specialists, our skilled surgeons, Dr. Gordon Wuebbolt and Dr. Beau Froebel use advanced techniques, including dropless cataract surgery, to ensure the best possible outcomes for our patients.
The procedure begins with your cataract surgeon applying eye drops to dilate your pupil and numb your eye. You'll be awake during the procedure, but your cataract surgeon will ensure you are comfortable. First, your cataract surgeon will make a tiny incision in your eye to access the lens. Using a technique called phacoemulsification, they will break up the cloudy lens using ultrasound waves and gently suction out the pieces.
Once the cataract is removed, your cataract surgeon will carefully insert the chosen IOL through the same small incision. The IOL unfolds and is positioned in the same place as your natural lens. In most cases, the incision is so small that it heals on its own without stitches. Throughout the procedure, you might see some light or movement, but you won't be able to see what the doctor is doing.
Deciding when to have cataract surgery is a personal decision that should be made in consultation with your eye doctor. At Community Eye Care Specialists, the cataract surgeons consider several factors when recommending the procedure.
This includes how much the cataract affects your daily life. If you're having difficulty with activities like reading, watching television, or driving, especially at night, it might be time to consider surgery.
Some people decide to have cataract surgery when they can no longer enjoy their hobbies, such as needlework or golf, due to poor vision. During your consultation at one of our convenient locations in NY or PA, your eye doctor will perform a thorough eye exam and discuss your vision needs and concerns. They will help you understand your options and decide the best timing for your cataract surgery.
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Recovery from cataract surgery is typically quick and straightforward for most patients. After the procedure, you'll need someone to drive you home.
Your vision might be blurry initially, but this is normal and should improve within a few days. Following your eye doctor's instructions for recovery is crucial to avoid any possible complications. For the first week or so, you should also avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and bending over. Most patients can resume normal activities, including reading and watching TV, within a day or two.
Your vision will continue to improve over the first few weeks after cataract surgery. Some people notice a significant improvement in their vision within a few days, while for others, it may take a bit longer. Follow-up appointments are an essential part of your recovery. These allow your doctor to monitor your healing and address any concerns.
