Cataracts

Cataracts obscure the normally transparent lens of an eye, making it become cloudy or opaque. They prevent light from reaching the retina, which impairs vision.

Cataracts Overview

Presbyopia occurs when the lens of the eye loses its elasticity and ability to change focus, diminishing close-range vision. Presbyopia often sets in as people reach their mid-forties and occurs even when corrective measures for other conditions, such as LASIK, have been performed.

Digital picture of a normal eyeball without Presbyopia

Normal Eye: In a normal eye, the lens is almost transparent allowing light to reach the retina without obstruction.

Digital illustration of an eyeball with cataracts

Cataract: When the lens turns opaque and does not allow light to reach the retina adequately, it is called a cataract. Eyeglasses will not improve vision.

Symptoms of Cataracts

People with cataract experience the following symptoms:

  • Reduced vision
  • Glare
  • Dulling of colors
  • Occasional double-vision

Possible Causes of Cataracts

Cataracts develop as a normal part of the aging process. Other contributing factors may be:

  • Other eye diseases
  • Systemic diseases, such as diabetes
  • Medications
  • Heredity
  • Ultraviolet light

Treatment of Cataracts

Because glasses cannot eliminate the symptoms of a cataract, surgery to implant an intraocular lens (IOL) is the only effective treatment. A revolutionary advance in the types of lenses used in cataract surgery now provides more options for improving your range of vision. Several types of IOL implants including monofocal, multifocal, and accommodating lenses are available to reduce or eliminate the need for reading glasses after surgery.

Benefits of Cataract Surgery

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