Q) Is there a way to correct my cataracts and my vision in the same procedure?
A) Cataract surgery, alone, can bring about radically improved vision. After the cataract is removed, an engineered lens, known as an intraocular lens implant, is usually put in its place. This device can correct many aspects of refraction so that the need for glasses is reduced or in some cases, even eliminated. The goal of cataract removal and lens implant replacement is to improve as many variables in the patient’s vision at one time as possible. Often, laser vision correction is not needed after cataract surgery.
Q) I had LASIK surgery performed about 10 years ago and I’ve since developed cataracts. Will cataract surgery reverse my ability to see without glasses?
A) We try to reduce your dependence on glasses and contact lenses after cataract surgery. We use computers to help calculate the power of your intraocular lens so that the glasses you wear after surgery will usually be thinner, if needed at all. Although many patients are able to function without glasses many patients may opt to use glasses for near vision, distance vision, or both after cataract surgery.
There are new, premium lenses which enable individuals to obtain improved vision at distance and near after cataract surgery or others which correct astigmatism, known as toric lenses. About 10% of the time, enhancing the results of cataract surgery can be performed by an additional laser vision procedure.
Q) Will I have night vision problems after getting cataract surgery?
A) Cataract manifests itself as a clouding of the lens brought on by time, genetics and environmental factors. Even medications can cause it. This clouding is the cause of the scattering of light (glare) of which patients complain. When the clouded lens is removed and replaced with a completely clear, intraocular lens implant, the glare abates. Some lens implants do cause more night vision issues than others and a residual refractive error of the eye, known as glass prescription, will also contribute to night time complaints. Nonetheless, night time vision is usually much improved after the cloudy cataract is removed!
Q) I’ve had diabetes for years and my cataracts have gotten worse. Are my type of cataracts treatable?
A) Cataracts are treatable. If cataracts are diminishing your ability to function, surgery may be an option to restore vision to as near normal as possible. Cataract surgery in those with diabetes is performed in the same way as in patients without diabetes. The cataracts are the same in both.
Q) If I have LASIK surgery done now, will it hinder my ability to have cataract surgery in the future?
A) Cataract surgery can be successfully performed after LASIK. LASIK does alter the corneal curvature and may alter the method of calculating the implant power.
When choosing the right surgeon for your cataract surgery, it is important to choose someone who is experienced in surgery, utilizes the most up to date technologies, and whose patients would recommend them again and again.
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