Cataract Surgery Specialist

What is a cataract?

A cataract refers to the clouding of the lens of your eye, causing foggy vision that makes common tasks like reading and driving very difficult. Cataracts are very common and most often develop because of the changes that occur to your eyes as you get older. 

Though cataracts typically develop slowly over time, certain conditions can cause the clouding to occur faster, such as a history of diabetes or an injury to the eye. 

What are cataract symptoms?

With a cataract, your vision may be hazy or blurry. Other cataract symptoms include:

• Sensitivity to light
• Double vision
• Difficulty seeing at night
• Inability to read fine print

Regular eye exams are recommended to diagnose cataracts, as well as other eye conditions such as age-related macular degeneration, during the early stages so you can get the most effective treatments before these conditions cause permanent vision loss. 

How are cataracts treated?

Treatment for your cataracts may depend on how they affect your vision. Initially, your provider can improve your vision with corrective eyewear. However, as your cataract grows and your vision worsens, surgery is the only effective treatment.

The team at Ventura Eye Institute is made up of skilled eye surgeons who utilize advanced surgical techniques, including laser cataract surgery, to remove your clouded lens and replace it with an artificial lens, referred to as an intraocular lens (IOL). 

During your cataract consultation, your provider reviews your surgical options with you so you can make an informed decision about the best way to proceed. 

You may benefit from laser cataract surgery if you have astigmatism you’d like corrected during your cataract surgery, or you’ve decided to have a premium IOL placed. 

Premium IOLs are special lenses that correct refractive errors, such as presbyopia, so there’s no need for you to use any corrective eyewear following your surgery.

What can I expect during cataract surgery?

Your cataract surgery is performed in an outpatient setting. Before your ophthalmologist begins, they first numb the eye and provide medication to help you feel relaxed during the procedure.

Then, they carefully remove your cataract lens by creating tiny incisions with the laser or a blade and replace it with your new, clear IOL. Stitches aren’t needed after placement of your new lens because the incisions made by your provider allow the eye to heal itself. 

After your surgery, you may spend 15-30 minutes in the recovery area, and then you’re sent home.

How long does it take to recover from cataract surgery?

You should start to notice an improvement in your vision within a few days after surgery, and a complete recovery within eight weeks. The team provides specific instructions on how to take care of your eye following your cataract surgery, as well as activity modifications. 

For expert eye care from a skilled ophthalmology team, call Ventura Eye Institute or use the online booking feature to schedule a consultation today.