The people of Austin can place their trust in our eye care specialists. We offer advanced vision correction procedures, always with a focus on improving eyesight and enhancing overall ocular health.
Cataracts are a common condition among the elderly, and we routinely treat and remove cataracts here at our practice. Let’s consider the basics of cataracts and then consider how they can be surgically removed.
About Cataracts
Cataracts form when the proteins in the naturally clear lens of the eye clump together. This leads to a clouding of the naturally clear lens of the eye. This clouding can be aesthetically unappealing and can also lead to issues with overall vision quality.
Cataracts are most commonly caused by injuries to the eyes, UV radiation, and long-term wear and tear to the eyes. The only way to address serious cataracts is surgical removal. Thankfully cataract surgery is a routine procedure that is highly successful and doesn’t typically involve great risk.
When Is Cataract Surgery Necessary?
Just because you have cataracts doesn’t mean you’ll need surgery. Sometimes patients will have minor cataracts that only slightly affect the vision. In these cases, your best option for treatment will involve the use of corrective lenses to improve vision.
When cataracts cause major blurring of your vision, then surgical removal is the best solution.
What Are Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)?
When the clouded lens of the eye is removed, it can be replaced with an artificial lens implant. These are known as intraocular lenses, or IOLs. There are different kinds of IOLs that can be used following cataract surgery. These IOLs may be able to focus at multiple distances or just one distance.
During the consultation process, we will be more than happy to discuss the various kinds of IOLs available and which ones might be best for you and your needs.
The Removal of the Clouded Lens
The cataract removal surgery is performed with patients under local anesthetic in order to eliminate pain and discomfort.
To remove the clouded lens of the eye, an incision is first made on the cornea, the topmost layer of the eye. Through this incision, a small instrument is inserted that breaks up the clouded lens of the eye. With the lens broken, the fragments of the lens can be extracted with ease. Whenever possible (which is the vast majority of cases), eye surgeons remove the lens while maintaining the lens capsule in which the lens resides.
Placing the Intraocular Lens (IOL)
Rather than making an additional incision on the cornea, the IOL is placed through the incision made to break up and extract the natural lens of the eye. The IOL is folded for insertion, and then unfolded once it is inside of the lens capsule. The eye surgeon carefully positions the IOL for optimal vision and safety. A suture is then places on the corneal incision for healing.
The Results of Cataract Surgery
The results of cataract surgery are exceptional. Many patients are able to see clearly again after cataract surgery. Depending on the type of IOL used, some patients may no longer require glasses.
Learn More About Cataracts
To learn more about cataract surgery and how it can benefit you, be sure to contact our team of eye care specialists today. We look forward to your visit and helping you see clearly again.