Small-Incision Cataract Surgery
A cataract is an age-related clouding of the eye’s natural lens that interferes with good vision. Common symptoms of cataract include blurred vision, glare, difficulty driving at night (particular trouble with oncoming headlights), problems reading, and diminished vision even with an updated pair of glasses or contact lenses.
Fortunately, cataracts can be corrected with a painless, outpatient procedure. The cloudy lens (cataract) is emulsified with ultrasound, and the small particles are irrigated out of the eye through a tiny slit-like opening. A lens implant is then placed through the small opening where it unfolds once inside the eye. Because the incision is so small (2.4 millimeters or less), it is generally self-sealing so that no stitches are needed.
Modern Cataract Surgery
Modern cataract eye surgery, when performed by an experienced surgeon, can allow patients a recovery period rather similar to that of LASIK. In its most sophisticated form, cataract surgery can be performed with eyedrop anesthesia (just like LASIK or PRK) and takes twenty minutes or less to complete. No patch is needed, and most patients are able to return to work within one to three days following their procedure.
The lens implant combined with refined techniques for controlling astigmatism (ie: AK or LRI), afford patients the opportunity to achieve good functional vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses. If needed, refractive surgery procedures can be performed to fine-tune one’s vision after their cataract surgery procedure.
Call us today at 805-388-1211 or contact us through our website to schedule a cataract surgery consultation if you are experiencing blurred vision or glare symptoms. If you are not a candidate for Cataract Surgery with lens implants, Lasik eye surgery or other types of laser vision correction procedures may be suitable for your eyes. Some patients may simply require an adjustment in their contact lens or glasses prescription. Scheduling a complete eye exam is the initial step.
