
Cataract Surgery
A cataract is a gradual clouding of the natural lens of the eye that blocks light from reaching the retina. A lens is just like a mirror which helps to compile light rays and form an image on the retina. Naturally, it's a clear and elastic structure. Cataract development is linked with increasing age.
The most common risk factor is increasing age but cataracts can develop early due to trauma, eye surgery, diabetes mellitus, and steroid use. The Eye Surgeons Associates team including Dr. Matthew Pieters in Lincoln Park, MI is highly specialized in cataract removal.
Under normal conditions light passes through the lens in the form of rays. This light focuses on the retina and an image is formed. Any abnormality that involves the lens leads to distortion of vision. When cataracts develop the lens in the eye hardens. The signs and symptoms of cataracts are:
The conditions that may lead to the early development of cataracts are the following:
A cataract is usually diagnosed with a history and ocular examination. Your eye doctor at Eye Surgeons Associates will perform the following:
The development of cataracts is a slow and progressive process. Prevention and avoidance of risk factors can delay the onset of cataracts, but once mature surgery is the only treatment. In cases of mild visual impairment observation or glasses are advised. The surgery itself involves the removal of the hard lens within the eye and placement of an artificial lens in its place. In the case of bilateral cataracts, surgery will be performed on one eye at a time.
A few days before cataract removal, your eye surgeon will perform an examination and ultrasound to determine the artificial lens (IOL) power.
There are many types of IOLs available depending on the patient's need:
Cataract removal surgery takes less than an hour to perform. After surgery, your vision typically begins to improve within a couple of days. It's normal to have mild discomfort, itching, and blurring that may be observed in the initial days after surgery.
The vast majority of people experience a significant improvement in their vision after cataract surgery. This often translates to an increased quality of life as well.
Contact your surgeon at Eye Surgeons Associates if you experience any of the following:
If you are facing any of the above-mentioned problems, call Eye Surgeons Associates or schedule a visit online at www.esacares.com.