Cataract FAQs

Our eye functions much like a camera. The natural lens focuses images onto the back of the eye so we can see clearly, much like the lens of a camera focusing images onto film for a clear picture. At birth, our natural lens is clear, but as we age it yellows and hardens. In addition, the lens may become cloudy. This condition is called a cataract, and is usually a result of the natural aging process. Everyone over the age of 60 will at some point develop cataracts. As the lens becomes cloudier, vision becomes more blurred.

All of us notice an important change in our up-close vision sometime around the age of 45. This condition is called presbyopia and comes from the gradual hardening of the lens in the eye. As we age, the lens doesn’t flex well to shift focus between distance and near, and reading becomes difficult without magnification. Presbyopia afflicts everyone over the age of 45.

Symptoms that could indicate the presence of a cataract include a gradual dulling of colors, halos around lights or glare when driving, difficulty reading in low light, blurred or double vision, and a frequent need to change your glasses prescription. A cataract can progress until eventually there is a complete loss of vision in your eye. Surgery is the only way a cataract can be removed. You should consider surgery when cataracts cause enough loss of vision to interfere with your daily activities.

If you’re experiencing blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, or colors that appear dull or faded, these could be signs of cataracts. It’s essential to learn the signs and symptoms to determine if surgery is the right step for you.

Cataract removal involves advanced techniques like ultrasound or laser technology. Learn about the differences between these methods and how they can provide safe and effective treatment.

Once the cloudy lens is removed, you will see a dramatic improvement in the clarity of your vision. Colors will be brighter, more vivid. And advanced lens implants, such as Tecnis, ReSTOR, and Crystalens, can deliver vision that is uniquely suited to your lifestyle. Dr. Loeffler will talk with you to understand your vision needs and can recommend a lens implant that gives you a fuller range of vision, allowing you to spend most of your day without glasses.

You will get the full benefit of a multifocal or accommodating IOL when it is implanted in both eyes. Please discuss with Dr. Loeffler or Dr. Kirschenbaum your work, activity, driving, and hobby considerations so that they can recommend the optimal lens implant for you.

If you are over 45 years old, lens replacement should be an option you consider along with contact lenses, glasses, and Lasik. Lens replacement provides a balanced distance and near vision solution, unlike blended vision with contacts or Lasik. It is the only permanent vision correction procedure that, through replacement of your natural lens, corrects near and distance vision issues.

Lens replacement is recommended for individuals over the age of 45 who have problems with both near and distance vision. If you are not a good candidate for LASIK, then the replacement IOL can give you the best vision for your needs.

Which lens implant is right for me?

Choosing the best lens implant depends on your vision goals. Options range from full-range vision to specialized lenses that correct astigmatism. Discover which implant fits your lifestyle and needs.

When your cataract is removed, a new lens implant is inserted to replace it. There are many different types of intraocular lens implants (IOLs) to choose from. Lens replacement options fall into three categories:

Single-Focus Lenses: These lenses provide sharp vision at a single fixed point, usually for distance. Aspheric lenses, such as the Tecnis IOL, fall into this category and are designed to improve night vision. They are an excellent choice for individuals who frequently drive at night.

Astigmatism-Correcting Lenses: These lenses have astigmatism correction built into the lens, providing crisp distance vision. They are ideal for individuals who have astigmatism and want to reduce their dependency on glasses for distance activities.

Multifocal Lenses: These lenses provide clear vision at several distances, from near to far, offering a fuller range of vision. They are perfect for individuals who prefer to spend most of their day without glasses.

Dr. Loeffler or Dr. Kirschenbaum will discuss the possible risks of lens replacement prior to surgery. Although the risk of this type of surgery is low, patients may experience infection, reaction to medications, increase in eye pressure, and vision changes. In rare instances, vision may worsen after surgery. Patients are advised to carefully read the informed consent for additional information.

Lens replacement is performed at an outpatient facility, usually under local anesthetic. Prior to surgery, your eyes will be measured to determine the prescription strength IOL needed to correct your vision.

Drops are also placed in the eyes to dilate the pupil, after which a tiny cut is made on the surface of the eye. An ultrasound tool is then used to break up the cloudy lens in the eye. The lens falls in a lens capsule, which is a thin sac of tissue. A tube is then used to remove the broken pieces from the eye. The IOL is then inserted into the lens capsule via the tiny incision.

After surgery, your eye will be covered with a shield to protect it. You will have a short stay in the recovery area before going home. A post-op visit is required the next day, so you should plan to have someone drive you to the appointment. Full recovery takes 2 to 6 weeks, but you will notice a gradual improvement in your vision over the next 30 days.

Some of the common side effects associated with lens replacement include an itchy or sticky eye, as well as sensitivity to bright light. Patients may also experience blurred vision, see halos around lights, and have difficulty driving at night. These issues usually clear as time passes.