More than 3 million cataract surgeries are performed in the U. S. yearly, and with the rising elderly population, this statistic is expected to grow within the next 3 years.
When you hear of cataract surgery, you probably envision ostensibly elder persons, but believe it or not, this common eye condition can begin to form as young as the age of 40 and is considered to be the number one cause of blindness. So, what are cataracts, exactly?
Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye forms a cloudy film, resulting in imminent blurred vision. The leading cause is due mostly to the natural aging process, while other causes include cortisone medications, trauma, diabetes, and other diseases. The transparency of the lens is compromised as a result of tissue deterioration and protein build-up. Symptoms often include double or blurred vision and ultra-sensitivity to light and glares. Your healthcare provider can easily diagnose cataracts by examining eyes with a viewing apparatus. Most everyone will develop cataracts eventually, but diligently wearing sunglasses during the daylight hours helps to prolong healthy, cataract-free eyes.
Fortunately, cataract surgery has revolutionized tremendously over the last few decades, allowing for effortless removal and a lifelong cure without adverse side effects. There are many safe and easy options to rid of your cataracts once and for all. Here is a rundown that will help you see cataract surgery in a whole new light!
Once your doctor, or ophthalmologist, evaluates your unique sight-seeing situation, he/she can determine the most efficient, sight-saving solution tailored for your individual needs. If your cataracts have reached an advanced stage where prescription eyeglasses are no longer cutting it, you’re most definitely a candidate for cataract surgery.
When choosing cataract surgery in Orange County, Dr. Ghosheh will ascertain the most viable trajectory of your impending cataract surgery, while implementing the latest, state-of-the-art technology to personalize your procedure. Generally, the entire operation entails making an incision in the eye and inserting an instrument about the size of pencil tip to dislodge and remove the cloudy lens. Then, an IOL (intraocular lens) is carefully inserted into the same incision and is positioned permanently in place. The entire procedure is done on an out-patient basis, is virtually pain-free, and the cataract is forever removed, never to return.
Because cataract surgery candidates are not a one-size-fits-all, our practice offers an array of IOL lenses to meet your individual needs:
- Monofocal Lens has one point of focus and yields clear distance vision. Eyeglasses may still be needed for tasks, such as reading or computer work.
- Multi-focal Lens (RESTOR Lens) is specifically designed to replace cataracts while reversing presbyopia (loss of apt reading ability), simultaneously eliminating the need for glasses entirely. You enjoy a full range of clear vision, i.e., near, far, and everywhere!
- Crystalens is a single-focus lens accommodating engineered to correct intermediate and near focusing capability. This cutting-edge lens works with your eye’s muscles natural ability, giving you that crystal-clear vision you remembered having in your youth.
- Astigmatism-Correcting Lens (Toric IOL) provides patients that have significant corneal astigmatism with high-quality distance vision, with little reliance on glasses.
Whichever lens is chosen, it is uniquely developed to last a lifetime and needs no removing, replacing, or cleaning. The only rare instance where a lens may need to be replaced, re-adjusted, or re-positioned is if the eye has undergone adverse inflammation or injury, causing the lens to dislocate.
Finally, your cataract surgery is complete once the cataract is removed and the IOL implementation is finished. If needed, the doctor will forge a stitch over the incision. A protective shield is then placed directly over the eye, ensuring its utmost protection during the recovery period, which lasts approximately a month.
For vision that you have to see to believe and more about cataract surgery in Orange County, contact Advanced Eye Medical today!