Cataract Surgery FAQs
What is a cataract?
A cataract is the clouding effect on a person’s natural eye lens. These natural lenses work much like a camera, making it possible for us to focus on objects and process what we’re seeing. When cataracts form, the eye’s ability to focus on the objects before them decreases.
How does cataract surgery work?
During surgery, the clouded natural lens is replaced with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). This procedure is typically done on an outpatient basis. One eye is done at a time, with a short healing period in between.
After making a very small incision outside your field of vision, your eye surgeon will insert a tiny probe and use ultrasounds to break up the clouded natural lens. With suction, the pieces are easily removed, and through the same incision, the IOL is inserted and positioned correctly.
Surgery is only recommended if your cataract(s) is presenting problems with daily activities such as reading or driving. Find Out If You’re a Candidate For Cataract Surgery, Take Our Interactive Self-Test
Is surgery right for me?
If you answer “Yes” to any of these questions, you may be showing early signs of cataracts.
- Is your vision blurry?
- Are you experiencing poor night vision or double vision?
- Are colors distorted or less vibrant?
- Are your eyes increasingly sensitive to light?
Is age the only thing that can cause cataracts?
No. Cataracts can also form due to factors such as:
- Eye injury
- Existing eye disease
- Use of certain medications
- Other health problems (e.g. diabetes)
Am I at greater risk of developing a cataract?
No one is immune to cataracts. However, there are certain groups that are at an increased risk of developing cataracts and needing surgery. This includes, but is not limited to:
- Smokers
- Individuals with diabetes
- Individuals who participate in steroid use
- Individuals who have experienced trauma to the eye
How do I know if I have a cataract?
A typical indicator of cataract development is the introduction of “night halos” or glares in vision. However, the best way to determine if you or a loved one is experiencing symptoms as the result of a cataract is to come in for an examination.
What are symptoms of cataracts?
- Blurred vision
- Light sensitivity
- Double vision in one eye
- Poor night vision
- Glare
- Color distortion
