Cataract Surgery

WHAT ARE CATARACTS?

A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens in the eye that can cause blurry vision or vision loss. The lens of the eye is normally clear and helps to focus light onto the retina, which sends visual signals to the brain.

Cataracts can form when the proteins in the lens break down and clump together, causing the lens to become cloudy. This can happen due to aging, but cataracts can also be caused by other factors such as genetics, injury, or certain medical conditions like diabetes.

HOW ARE CATARACTS TREATED?

Cataracts are treated with surgery to remove and replace the cloudy lens with an artificial lens implant, known as an intraocular lens (IOL). Surgery is the only way a cataract can be removed. No medications, dietary supplements or exercises have been shown to prevent or cure cataracts. Cataract surgery is a common and safe procedure that improves vision and quality of life for many people.

Intraocular lens options

There are several types of IOLs that can be used to replace the natural lens and restore vision.

1. Monofocal IOLs: These lenses have a single focus, usually set for distance vision, and are the most commonly used IOLs. Patients may still require glasses for reading or close- up work.
2. Multifocal IOLs: These lenses have multiple focusing distances, allowing for clearer vision at different distances. Patients may have reduced dependence on glasses for both distance and near vision.
3. Extended depth of focus (EDOF) IOLs: These lenses provide a continuous range of focus from distance to intermediate or near, with the hope of less glare and halos than multifocal IOLs.
4. Toric IOLs: These lenses are specifically designed for patients with astigmatism, a common condition where the cornea is irregularly shaped. These lenses come in monofocal, multifocal and EDOF versions.

The type of IOL recommended will depend on a patient's individual needs, lifestyle, and visual goals, as well as the characteristics of their eye and any pre-existing eye conditions. An eye surgeon will help patients choose the best IOL option for their specific case.

WHEN SHOULD SURGERY BE DONE?

Surgery should be considered when cataracts cause enough vision loss to interfere with your daily activities. Based on your symptoms you and your ophthalmologist should decide together when surgery is appropriate.

Post Op Drop Instructions

To see our instructions for eye drops after your Cataract procedure, simply click here.