Cataract is the leading cause of blindness in the world. Cataracts can prevent you from being able to do everyday tasks such as reading or driving, as well as the things you do for fun. The longer cataracts are left untreated, the more difficult it can be to successfully remove the cataract and restore vision.
Past studies found that quality of life for those who had cataract surgery improved by 36 percent after surgery when comparing those patients to people who didn't have the surgery. Most patients not only have improved vision after cataract surgery, patients also experience these benefits listed below.
What is a cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. It can be compared to a window that is frosted or yellowed. The amount and pattern of cloudiness within the lens can vary. If the cloudiness is not near the center of the lens, you may not be aware that a cataract is present.
The most common type of cataract is related to aging of the eye. Other causes of cataract include: family history, medical problems, such as diabetes,injury to the eye, medication, especially steroids, radiation long-term,unprotected exposure to sunlight previous eye surgery and unknown factors. Learn more about common cataract symptoms on our website.
What is laser cataract surgery?
An eye surgeon uses the laser to make the corneal incision and the opening in the lens capsule. Energy from the laser may also be used to soften the cataract. Then the ultrasound probe used in traditional cataract surgery is used to break the lens into pieces and suction them out of the eye. The IOL is implanted. You may also be offered laser cataract surgery if you choose to have a premium lens implanted, such as an astigmatism-correcting toric IOL or a multifocal IOL.
Dr. Stewart Shofner specializes in cataract vision correction surgery,eye disease diagnosis and treatment. If your vision has recently changed or if it’s been more than a year since your last eye exam, click or call (615) 340-4733 to schedule a comprehensive eye exam.