Cataracts

This phenomenon is mostly due to the natural aging process of the lens. However ultraviolet exposure, such as too much sun, can speed the process. Smoking cigarettes may also increase your risk. If you are on certain medications or have other illnesses such as diabetes, of have had trauma to the eye, the chance for cataracts may be increased.

In general, cataracts develop slowly and gradually cause loss of vision. Early on, the symptoms of a cataract will be mild. As they progress, the symptoms can include blurred vision, glare from oncoming headlights, double vision, halos around lights, and difficulty driving at night. Some people notice that they increasingly need a stronger light source in order to be able to read even with reading glasses. If you are noticing these symptoms, it may be time for a visit to eye eye doctor. Our vision center in Glendale offers eye exams and care treatments for patients with cataracts, and we provide intraocular lens options during surgery procedures.

At our Glendale vision center, a complete eye exam will determine if cataracts are present. Sometimes a change in glasses will be enough to improve the vision temporarily. When cataracts become severe enough, a change in glasses will not help at that point. The treatment will be to surgically remove the cataractous lens and replace it with an artificial lens implant.

Modern cataract surgery is a very safe and effective way of treating this condition. It is performed through an incision measuring only a few millimeters. A small instrument is inserted through this tiny incision, and is used to break the cataract into many small pieces. There are many advantages to a smaller incision, including a faster recovery time, less need for glasses after surgery, and a smaller risk of infections after surgery. Modern cataract surgery can often be performed without any stitches. Our Glendale vision center provides eye exams and care treatments to determine if you will need cataract surgery. If you end up needing a procedure, we can also help you decide which intraocular lens you will want placed in your eye during surgery.

After the eye is properly anesthetized and numbed, a small incision is made. Modern day cataract surgery is also called micro-surgery because the incision sizes have become so small. Once the incision is made, a probe is inserted into the eye in order to break up the cloudy cataract. At the same time suction is used to remove the debris that is much smaller in size that the original intact cataract. The capsular bag that encompasses the cataract is preserved in order to place the artificial implant in the same position as the old cataract. The foldable intraocular lens or IOL is then inserted into the eye. The IOL-once inside the eye- unfolds and is gently guided into its proper position. Intraocular lenses will have haptics and “lens arms” to hold it in place. With the cataract removed and the IOL in place, light can once again travel unimpeded to the back of the eye and focus on the retina where the image is interpreted and transmitted to the brain. The end result is clear youthful vision.

Most people have excellent results after cataract surgery. Within the first day of cataract surgery it is very important not to rub or press on your eye. It is common that you will have some itching, tearing, and mild discomfort. We will take precautions to prevent infection and swelling. The drops to be used are antibiotics and anti-inflammatory drops to minimize swelling and the possibility of infection. It is very important to take the drops as instructed to help with the healing process. Avoid bumping or touching your eye after cataract surgery. You may see some initial glare and haloes after cataract surgery but this should go away over time. Make sure you get all of your prescriptions filled so you do not have to suddenly have to leave your home. Our practice will provide you with instructions for the prescription medications.