Cataracts

A cataract is a common medical condition in which the normally transparent lens of the eye becomes cloudy and hard. In a healthy, unclouded lens, light is able to pass through to the retina at the back of the eye, allowing us to see detail. As the lens becomes cloudy, vision becomes blurred, and if left untreated, it will interfere with daily activities. Cataracts commonly develop as a result of aging, but they also can be caused by disease, trauma and certain medications like steroids.

At first, the cloudiness caused by a cataract may be subtle and you may be unaware of any vision loss. As the cataract becomes more dense, images become increasingly hazy due to distortion of the light passing through it. This may lead to more noticeable symptoms such as:

• Increased difficulty with nighttime vision
• Sensitivity to light and glare
• Need for brighter light for reading and other activities
• Seeing “halos” around lights
• Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription
• Fading or yellowing of colors

If you notice any changes in your vision, including the symptoms listed above, you should make an appointment for an eye exam at your earliest convenience.

As populations age and the average life expectancy continues to increase, the number of people with cataracts will only grow. Fortunately, it is a relatively simple condition to treat surgically.

One treatment for cataract removal is phaco-emulsification, in which the eye’s internal lens is emulsified (or made liquid) with an ultrasonic handpiece and aspirated (suctioned out) from the eye. Then the surgeon will put in a new artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL), which will be left in the eye permanently.

More often, Georgia Ophthalmologists performs laser cataract surgery using the CATALYS precision laser system. The CATALYS System will image your eye and make precise 3D maps of relevant structures. This enables the surgeon to create a tailored treatment plan that is uniquely customized for your eye. Using the CATALYS System, the surgeon will create precise incisions, including a circular one to access and remove the cloudy lens, and replace it with a new artificial lens

During your cataract consultation, your surgeon will discuss treatment options and which one is best for you.

Cataract surgery usually takes 15 minutes or less, and recovery is quick.

Most normal activities, except strenuous exercise, need not be restricted following cataract surgery.

Depending on the precise symptoms caused by your cataract, you may enjoy some or all of the following benefits of surgery:

• Improved clarity of vision
• Improved vision in dim light
• Reduced glare on a sunny day or during night driving
• Colors may seem richer
• Improved vision may enable you to continue driving

Many studies have shown improved quality of life after cataract surgery. Activities such as reading, sports, cooking, driving, using a computer and sewing are generally easier after the procedure. Even when the eye also suffers from other problems such as retinal disease, the remaining vision is usually improved by cataract surgery
In many cases, patients who have had cataract surgery will also have an opportunity to become glasses and/or contacts free. Georgia Ophthalmologists uses a variety of lens implants to correct your distance vision, astigmatism and even your near vision after cataract removal. In most cases, we have the ability to provide glasses independence to our patients.

There is little to no pain during or immediately after the procedure, although during the procedure, you may feel some tolerable pressure on your eyes. Before your cataract surgery begins, numbing eye drops are used to alleviate any pain or discomfort during the procedure. Also, routine cataract surgery does not require the use of stitches or needles. You will be given medication to help you relax during the procedure.

Cataract surgery is an out-patient surgical procedure performed at Georgia Ophthalmologists’ state-of-the-art ambulatory surgery center located in the Covington office. This means there is no need for a hospital stay or visit. Cataract surgery takes about 15 minutes, but adding in preoperative preparation and onsite recovery, you should plan to be at the surgery center for approximately 3 hours.

Cataract surgery entails removal of the natural lens, and replacement with an artificial lens (IOL) which will not form a cataract. So cataracts, once removed via surgery, will not come back.

Sometimes a posterior capsule opacity, or a ‘secondary cataract’, can occur after a cataract operation. This is where a hazy membrane forms just behind the IOL. This condition is very easily treated with a procedure called a YAG laser capsulotomy, which removes the haziness, and restores normal vision. It is a fast, painless and very effective treatment performed as an outpatient procedure and takes about 2 to 3 minutes.

Insurance covers basic cataract surgery. Part of the free consultation offered by Georgia Ophthalmologists is a discussion of insurance details and the prices associated with all of our advanced technology options. There are many options for payment plans that make the procedure and follow-up treatment safe and affordable.