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ABOUT CATARACTS
Over fifty percent of people over the age of 60, and quite a few younger than that, suffer from cataracts. In fact, cataracts are so common it is said that everyone will develop a cataract if they live long enough.
A cataract is a progressive clouding of the eye's natural lens that interferes with light passing through to the retina. Sufferers usually describe the condition as being similar to looking through a waterfall, or a piece of wax paper with a gradual blurring or dimming of vision. Reading may become more difficult and driving a car can actually become dangerous. Cataract sufferers may also be troubled by a bothersome glare, halos around lights, or even double vision. And as the cataract becomes worse, frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions may become necessary.
Below is a more detailed description of what you can expect during you pre-operative exams and your follow-up care.
Currently there is no medical treatment to reverse or prevent the development of cataracts. Once they form, there is only one way to achieve clear vision again, and that is to physically remove the cataract from the eye.
SUCCESSFUL CATARACT SURGERY
Everyone heals somewhat differently, but many cataract patients report improvement in their vision almost immediately after the procedure. Most patients return to their normal work and lifestyle routines within a day or two.
According to a survey conducted by the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, more than 98% of cataract patients had their vision successfully improved after surgery. Many patients experience vision that is actually better than before they developed cataracts. Once removed, cataracts will not grow back. However, some patients may experience clouding of a thin tissue called the capsule or "bag" that holds the IOL. In most cases, a laser is used to painlessly open the clouded capsule and restore clear vision.
THE CHOICE IS YOURS
It can take months or years for a cataract to develop. How do you know when it is time to have a cataract removed? The answer is quite simple. The time to have your cataract removed is when you believe your quality of life would be better if you could see better. Only you can decide when it is time to open your eyes to a bright, clear world.
CATARACT SURGERY
In your parents' or grandparents' day, cataract surgery was considered risky required a lengthy hospital stay and was usually postponed for as long as possible.
Today, cataract surgery is performed on an out-patient basis and takes only a few minutes. Patients can then go home and rest in comfort and avoid the inconvenience and expense of staying in a hospital.
ADVANCED TECHNIQUES
Your cataract will be removed with an advanced technique called phacoemulsification, or small-incision cataract surgery. After applying a local anesthetic, a "stair-stepped'' incision of about 1/8" is made in the front part of the eye. The cataract is then broken into microscopic particles using high energy sound waves and gently sectioned from the eye. Then, to compensate for the removal of the eye's natural lens, an intra-ocular lens (IOL) is implanted into the eye. After using this special "stair-stepped'' incision, you may receive one. several or even no stitches, This type of incision is self-sealing, stronger, heals faster and remains tightly sealed by the natural outward pressure within your eye.
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