Cataracts

What is a cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the lens inside the eye that focuses light. The lens sits just behind the pupil (figure 1). As the lens becomes increasingly cloudy, it becomes more difficult to see objects clearly and can cause glare from bight lights. Cataract of aging, the most common form, is inevitable as we mature. In other words, if you live long enough you will have some degree of cataract; however, not everyone will require surgery to restore vision.

What causes cataracts and what can I do to prevent them?
Certain systemic diseases such as diabetes, medications such as steroids, smoking, poor nutrition, radiation (ultaviolet and ionizing) and eye trauma, have been shown to contribute to formation of various types of cataracts. Research to date does not definitely support nutritional or vitamin supplements to prevent cataract formation. Wearing sunglasses to reduce exposure to ultraviolet light is prudent. There is no proven medical treatment available to prevent formation or progression of age-related cataracts.

If I have a cataract how do I know if I need surgery?
At CEENTA, we tell our patients that surgery is more their decision than ours, within reasonable guidelines. If a cataract is interfering with your ability to function in your daily life, driving, enjoying movies or TV, reading and so forth, then it may be time for surgery. If your life is minimally affected then it does no harm to delay surgery.

How is cataract surgery performed?
Cataract surgery is one of the most common and most successful surgical procedures performed each year in the United States. It is an outpatient procedure performed with the aid of a topical or local anesthetic which makes it a painless procedure with generally little or no post-operative pain. It is unusual to be put to sleep for the procedure. Although you may experience quite a "light show," you cannot see the procedure being performed. Generally only a small incision is made in the eye and the lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens to help you focus properly after the surgery. This lens or implant lasts forever and cannot be felt by the patient. Lasers, contrary to popular belief, are not routinely used to remove cataracts; They are still experimental, have been used on only a small number of patients in the United States, and offer no real advantage as yet because an incision still is made in the eye. Eye surgeons at CEENTA are well experienced in all types of cataract surgery to better tailor the surgery to the needs of each patient.

How soon can I drive and return to work after the cataract surgery?
Most patients can drive within a few days after surgery if they feel comfortable with their vision. They may have to rely on their old glasses or have temporary glasses prescribed until their vision is stable for a final glasses prescription. Regarding work, most patients return to work within a few days unless it requires strenuous activity or exposure to harsh chemicals. There are many individual circumstances that must be discussed with your eye surgeon.

Can a cataract grow back and require surgery again?
No, a cataract will not grow back or form again after surgery. However, a small portion of the original lens that was removed called the posterior capsule is intentionally left to hold the lens implant in place. This very thin membrane will sometimes cloud months or years after cataract surgery and begin to cause blurred vision similar to a cataract. The clouded part is painlessly and safely removed with a special type of laser that does not require any incisions in the eye and takes just a few minutes in the physician’s office.