What is a Cataract?
A cataract is an opacification or clouding of the eye’s natural lens that results in loss of vision over time. Cataracts interfere with light rays passing through the eye to the retina. Aging and other factors cause proteins in the eye’s lens to denature resulting in opacification. Early changes may not be visually significant, but over time cataracts typically result in blurred or fuzzy vision and sensitivity to light and difficulty with daily activities. People with visually significant cataracts often say they feel as if they’re looking through a waterfall or a piece of wax paper.
What are some Symptoms of Cataracts?
Cataracts typically develop slowly and painlessly over time. As cataracts progress, you may notice one or more of the following common symptoms:
- Decreasing vision
- Blurred or double vision
- Seeing halos around bright lights
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Vision that worsens in sunlight
- Difficulty distinguishing colors
- Poor depth perception
- Frequent prescription changes for glasses
- Difficulty reading
- Glare
What causes Cataracts?
The most common cause of cataracts is aging. Other factors that contribute to cataract formation, including:
- Eye trauma
- Heredity
- Diabetes
- Some medications including long-term use of oral steroids
- Ultraviolet radiation
- Smoking
- Glaucoma
- Certain metabolic conditions
Who gets Cataracts?
Cataracts are very common; they affect more than 50% of people aged 60 and over. Nearly everyone develops cataracts as they grow older, with an estimated 20.5 million Americans aged 40 or older have cataracts.
How does Traditional Cataract Surgery work?
In traditional cataract surgery, the surgeon uses a microblade or diamond knife to make a small incision in order to remove the cataract. The lens is fragmented into smaller pieces with an ultrasonic device to remove it through a tiny incision from the eye. After the lens is removed, a new intraocular lens (IOL) is placed in the eye.
What is advanced Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery offers unprecedented precision and predictability, and outstanding visual outcomes. In fact, 95% of Ohio Valley Eye Institute Premium cataract patients see well enough to pass their driver’s license exam for day or night driving. With this technology, patients also have the option to reduce or even eliminate their dependence on glasses and contacts with advanced Lifestyle Lenses.
How do I choose the right Cataract Surgeon?
This decision is imperative, as your vision is one of your most precious senses. By choosing the most skilled and experienced cataract surgeons you can find, you’ll minimize risks and get an outstanding outcome. Dr. Malitz has years of experience with cataract surgery, earning us a superior reputation throughout Evansville and the tri-state region. Dr. Malitz will personally meet with you prior to your procedure, plan your treatment, and provide first-class service with the best staff around. You only have one set of eyes, trust them to Evansville’s cataract experts and the doctors whom other doctors in the area choose for their patients.
How long does it take to Recover from Cataract Surgery?
Many patients are relieved to find that recovery from modern cataract surgery is fast. It’s an outpatient procedure with topical anesthesia, and no stitches are required, so recovery is rapid! In fact, it’s common for our cataract patients to report marked improvement in their vision as soon as the next day. Most patients can read or watch TV the day after their procedure, and can resume other normal activities such as driving and working within just two or three days. Of course, an important part of the recovery process is to follow your surgeon’s instructions and attend your postoperative appointments.
Will I need to have Cataract Surgery again?
While the results of cataract surgery are permanent, some patients do experience a “secondary cataract” or a clouding of the tissue surrounding the lens. If this occurs, an outpatient laser procedure will be used to quickly and painlessly restore your clear vision.
Is Cataract Surgery Affordable?
Our office is pleased to accept Medicare and most insurance as payment for the cost of your cataract surgery if you select traditional cataract surgery with a standard lens. If you choose laser cataract surgery with a Lifestyle Lens, you will be responsible for the additional costs of these advanced technologies. Many patients feel that the freedom and vision benefits that come from having an advanced procedure are well worth the cost. To make your decision easy and affordable, we offer a variety of financing and payment plans.
What happens during the Cataract Consultation?
The appointment typically takes less than an hour, and our expert team will perform preliminary tests on your eyes to determine if you are a candidate for cataract surgery. They’ll also explain your options, answer all of your questions, and discuss payment and insurance coverage. After this appointment, your next step is to have a comprehensive cataract evaluation and then the procedure. Depending on insurance coverage, some patients may elect to have the evaluation at the same time as the consultation.
How do I find out which type of cataract surgery is best for me?
Our friendly and knowledgeable cataract counselors are always happy to answer your questions about cataract surgery and explain your options based on your personal situation and unique vision goals. Take the next step and call us at (812) 421-2020to schedule your cataract consultation. Reclaim your youthful vision today!