Have you or a loved one been told you need to undergo cataract surgery? Maybe you suspect you have cataracts and think you may need to seek treatment. Either way, we understand you may feel a bit anxious and you probably have multiple questions. That is completely normal – you’re definitely not alone. But you can rest assured. Studies have shown that cataract surgery is the most common surgical procedure performed in medicine. Nearly four million cataract surgeries are performed annually in the United States alone. This procedure has been perfected since it was first performed in 1747, thanks to major medical and technological advances.

Furthermore, we’d like to give you an inside look at:

  • What causes cataracts in the first place
  • What treatment in any of our facilities entails
  • How our surgeons ensure your utmost comfort throughout the entire process

Our team here at Vistar aims to give patients a deeper understanding of their condition and uphold open communication about each aspect of the care we offer. So let’s jump in.

Cataracts Causes

There are many factors that can increase your risk for cataracts, including:

Age

As part of the natural aging process, our optical lenses become thicker and less clear. According to the National Eye Institute, the risk of cataracts increases with each decade of life starting around age 40. Individuals ages 60 years and older are most susceptible to developing cataracts. However, anybody can get cataracts.

Smoking or Heavy Alcohol Use

Both smoking and excessive drinking increase the number of free radicals in your eyes. Free radicals are molecules containing oxygen that damage the proteins and lipids in the eyes. This may cause deposits to form on the surface of your lens, and lead to cataract development.

Health Conditions

Various conditions such as diabetes put you at greater risk for cataracts. Diabetics experience higher blood sugar levels over time which can cause their lens’ structures to deteriorate and accelerate cataracts development.

Another common condition known as atopic dermatitis (a form of eczema), can form on one’s eyelids and cause swelling and irritation. To temporarily relieve the discomfort, patients might rub or scratch near their eyes which can damage the lens, and in turn, cause cataracts to form.

Significant Exposure to Ultraviolet Light Rays

When your eyes are exposed to ultraviolet light, the rays accelerate the break-down of the lens and cause the proteins to clump together. This may lead to cataracts, which cloud your vision.

Certain Treatments

Properties of some medications and medical procedures (i.e. radiation therapy or steroids like Prednisone) have a direct impact on the inner workings of your eye structure. Radiation exposure may increase an opacification of the lens, whereas steroids can cause lens proteins to bind together. Both of which could eventually result in cataract formation.

Eye Trauma

A blunt or penetrating ocular trauma can physically disrupt and damage the ocular fibers, which can cause clouding in your lens.

Regardless of what may have caused cataracts to form, it’s a good idea to make a consultation with your eye doctor. It’s better to catch and treat it earlier before it becomes more severe. Your doctor can determine what the best course of action would be for your individual case. They will work with you all throughout your treatment plan.

Cataract surgery is a reliable solution that can correct your eyesight so you may see clearly again. Here is a brief glance at the steps of the procedure.

Treatment Process

Cataract surgery is generally a brief and well-tolerated procedure. There is minimal pain involved, but most patients are understandably a little nervous. This is normal! All patients receive an IV prior to surgery, and most receive a small or moderate amount of sedating medication to help calm the nerves. Vistar’s staff and surgeons are focused on making the process as easy and painless as possible. Most importantly, our #1 priority is your safety, and our surgical facilities have a safety record that is second to none.

Depending on your situation and your goals for vision, your surgeon may employ a variety of technologies in the treatment of your cataracts. A key example is the CATALYS™ advanced #d imaging and femtosecond laser system. This technology is used to build a 3D may of each eye and apply an extremely precise treatment that augments (but does not completely replace) conventional cataract surgery.

Your surgeon will work with you to craft a custom treatment plan that factors in the unique aspects of your eye, as well s your personal goals for vision. In cataract surgery, the cataract will be removed and your surgeon will place a clear intraocular lens (IOL) implant into your eye. There are multiple types of lens implants to choose from, and your doctors can help you decide which type suits your lifestyle needs or personal preferences. After the surgery (and possibly a brief postoperative check, someone should drive you home so you can get some rest and begin your recovery.

Recovery

Because every person’s body is unique, the healing time varies from person to person. It’s normal to:

  • Experience some blurriness for a couple of days post-op
  • Feel grittiness in your eye(s)
  • Experience watering or double vision
  • Have red or bloodshot eyes

During the first few weeks after surgery, make sure you don’t rub your eyes. You should follow the medication and activity instructions given to you by your doctor carefully, as there may vary from patient to patient. Postoperative discomfort and blurring usually improve within a few days, but it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a month or two to fully recover. Cataract surgery has a very high success rate in improving your eyesight and helping you achieve your goals for better quality vision.

  • Rub your eyes
  • Allow soap or shampoo to get in your eyes while showering
  • Drive until you get the all-clear from your doctor
  • Wear eye make-up for at least a few weeks

Side effects usually improve within a few days, but it can take anywhere from a few weeks to a month or two to fully recover. Cataract surgery has a very high success rate in improving your eyesight and should allow you to return to your normal activities, like driving.

Contact Vistar Eye Center Today!

Curious about the cost of cataract surgery? Are you wanting to give the gift of sight to a loved one? Our staff can provide you with more information. We’d be happy to meet with you. Contact us today to learn more about cataract surgery.