Advanced Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that is typically performed on an outpatient basis using local anesthesia. Cataract surgery replaces the cloudy natural lens of the eye with a clear artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens (IOL). Cataracts affect more than half of all Americans age 60 and older causing a progressive, painless loss of vision, as well as:
- Blurry or hazy vision
- Spots in front of the eyes
- Sensitivity to glare
- A filmy feeling over the eye
- A temporary improvement in near vision
- Double vision
- Poor night time vision
- Vision that has a yellow tinge
Our doctors perform a minimally invasive, small-incision, no-stitch cataract surgery called phacoemulsification, also known as phaco, surgery. During this procedure, a tiny incision is made in the eye making room for a small ultrasonic probe. This probe breaks up, or emulsifies, the cloudy lens into tiny pieces. The lens pieces are then suctioned out through the probe. Because of its small size, the incision will be able to heal on its own with only a topical eye drop, so there are no injections or stitching in the eye at all.
After the cloudy lens has been removed, the artificial IOL is implanted in the eye. The IOL is inserted through the same small incision that was made to remove the original lens. This process significantly reduces recovery time while reducing the risk of bleeding, scarring, irritation and distortion.
Benefits of Cataract Surgery
The benefits of cataract surgery are many and have been proven to greatly enhance the quality of life. Patients who have successful cataract surgery may experience several advantages.
Improved Quality of Vision
Patients experience improved vision after cataract surgery, reporting sharper images and brighter colors, They have less difficulty with many routine tasks, particularly night driving.
Decreased Dependency on Eyeglasses
Many people who have cataract surgery find that they no longer need to wear glasses or that their dependency on glasses is greatly reduced.
Greater Sense of Self-confidence
Cataract surgery most often results in an increased sense of independence, regardless of the age of the patient. Marked improvements have been recorded even in patients with dementia or extreme hearing impairment.
Greater Safety
Research indicates that the improved vision provided by cataract surgery reduces the possibility of falls, making exercise, sports and hobbies more possible. This results in improved physical health, sociability and longer life expectancy.
