Cataracts
Cataracts are a common eye condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurry vision, glare sensitivity, and difficulty with night vision. While cataracts often develop with age, they can also be caused by genetics, injury, medications, or medical conditions like diabetes.
What are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
Cataract symptoms include blurry or dim vision, increased glare sensitivity, difficulty seeing at night, faded or yellowed colors, and frequent changes in vision prescriptions.
Some common symptoms of a cataract are:
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A gradual loss of color vision–objects appear yellowed;
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Increasing haziness causing blurred and distorted vision;
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The appearance of dark spots or shadows that seem to move when the eye moves;
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An increasing need for more light to see clearly;
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Glare at night–haloes or colored rings around lights;
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A tendency to become more nearsighted because of the increasing density of the lens;
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A stage where it is easier to see without glasses than with them–second sight;
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Double vision, which persists even if only one eye is open;
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In advanced stages, a change in the appearance of the pupil–it may appear white or yellow.
What Are The Benefits of Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is the only effective treatment, replacing the clouded lens with a clear intraocular lens (IOL). This quick, safe outpatient procedure restores vision and can correct refractive errors.
Improved Color Vision
Colors are brighter and more vivid after cataract surgery.
Greater Clarity of Vision
Vision is crisper and sharper after cataract surgery.
Improved Quality of Life
Research shows that cataract surgery significantly improves quality of life. Many regain independence through driving, while activities like reading, sewing, and using a computer become easier. Even with other eye conditions, vision typically improves.
Greater Freedom From Corrective Lenses
Advancements in laser cataract surgery and lens technology offer more personalized options based on your lifestyle. You can choose whether to use glasses for certain distances or reduce dependence on them. You and your surgeon will decide the best option for you.
Which Lens is Right For Me?
Now is the best time for cataract surgery, with a variety of advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs) offering sharp, clear vision and reduced dependence on glasses. Learn more about the 3 common types!
Monofocal Lenses
A standard monofocal lens provides brighter, clearer vision by replacing your clouded lens but focuses at only one distance, so glasses may still be needed. Clinically proven to correct cataracts, it offers excellent night vision with minimal halos and glare, even in challenging conditions like fog.
Astigmatism-Correcting Lenses
When the surface of the cornea has an uneven curvature and is shaped more like a football than a basketball, light rays are not able to focus on one spot and vision becomes distorted.
This common irregularity is called a “corneal astigmatism.”
Multifocal Lenses
Multifocal replacement lenses offer clearer vision at all distances while reducing the need for glasses. PanOptix, the first and only FDA-approved trifocal lens, provides exceptional near, intermediate, and distance vision, with over 99% of patients saying they would choose it again. Digby Eye Associates also offers the AcrySof® IQ Vivity™ lens, which enhances distance and arm’s-length vision while maintaining functional near vision. In clinical studies, most patients reported improved vision and lifestyle benefits, with high satisfaction and recommendation rates.
LenSx® Laser
Patients can choose between manual cataract surgery or precise, bladeless procedures with advanced laser technology like the LenSx® Laser.
What is advanced technology intraocular lens vision enhancement?
The advanced technology IOL is a state-of-the-art intraocular lens designed to provide a full range of vision, from near to distance, for most patients. While the procedure for replacing the natural lens remains the same as traditional cataract surgery, this advanced lens significantly reduces or even eliminates the need for glasses or contact lenses.
What makes advanced technology IOLs different from ordinary intraocular lenses?
Unlike ordinary IOLs, advanced technology IOLs provide a full range of vision, reducing the need for corrective lenses. The Crystalens® uses the eye’s natural muscle to focus, while the ReSTOR® lens has a special surface design for clear near and distance vision without muscle assistance. The ReZoom® lens features multiple focusing zones to enhance vision at all distances.
Do advanced technology IOLs provide 20/20 vision for both reading and distance?
Advanced technology IOLs provide a full range of vision, though some patients may not achieve 20/20 at all distances due to pre-existing eye conditions. Your doctor will discuss any factors that may affect your results. In FDA studies of ReSTOR®, 80% of patients no longer needed glasses, and 84% achieved 20/25 distance and 20/30 near vision, allowing them to read small print easily.
Am I a good candidate for advanced technology IOL vision enhancement?
An experienced eye doctor can assess your vision and recommend the best treatment. Most healthy individuals are good candidates for advanced technology IOLs, except those who have already had cataract surgery. Patients with prior corneal refractive surgery may qualify but might need an enhancement for optimal results. Those with uncontrolled diabetes, chronic infections, or certain health conditions should stabilize their health before lens replacement surgery.
Will the doctor implant advanced technology IOLs in both eyes at the same time?
For optimal results, advanced technology IOLs should be implanted in both eyes. Cataracts typically develop in both eyes, but only the clouded lens needs replacement. If both lenses are equally clouded, the non-dominant eye is usually treated first. The interval between surgeries is typically two to three weeks, depending on healing and vision results.
How long does the procedure last? Is it painful?
The advanced technology IOL implant takes about 20 minutes, with the entire visit lasting less than two hours. Patients arrive an hour before the procedure for relaxation medication and eye drops to numb the eye and dilate the pupil. During surgery, the old lens is removed through a tiny incision, and the new lens is inserted, causing some pressure but no pain. Afterward, eye drops are applied to prevent infection and reduce inflammation, and a protective patch is placed. Patients should rest at home and avoid strenuous activities, with a follow-up exam the next day. Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
What is the likelihood of complications, and what might they be?
Advanced technology IOLs offer multifocal vision, unlike ordinary IOLs, while the implantation procedure remains the same as traditional cataract surgery, which has been safely performed on over seven million eyes annually. Most complications, like minor infections and inflammation, are temporary and treatable. Serious complications, such as infection or retinal detachment, are rare but more common in patients with diabetes, high blood pressure, or chronic conditions. About 98% of patients experience no complications, and over 95% achieve improved vision. Your eye surgeon will conduct a thorough evaluation of expected results and potential risks.
How does vision improve after surgery?
After surgery, vision improves gradually as the eye heals and adjusts to the advanced technology IOL. Distance vision typically improves within a day or two, while near vision may take a few days or longer with the ReSTOR® lens. The procedure corrects lens deficiencies but won't address issues like floaters, flashes, or visual field loss. This information is general; a consultation with an eye professional will provide personalized details. The long-term safety and effectiveness of this lens are not yet fully established.
Will lens implant surgery cause glare, night driving problems, and light sensitivity?
Glare, night driving issues, and light sensitivity can occur with both traditional and advanced technology IOLs, though night vision problems are generally less severe after cataract surgery. Light sensitivity is often temporary as the IOL allows more light to pass through, making colors and lights appear brighter. All IOLs may cause glare, flares, or halos at night due to the wider pupil, but these effects can typically be managed with medication or night driving glasses.
How soon after lens implant surgery will I be able to resume normal activities?
Most patients can resume normal activities in a few days, with some limitations. Sensitivity to touch and bright lights typically won’t prevent driving or returning to work. Medication may be prescribed to prevent infection and control inflammation, and a protective shield may be recommended for sleeping, with sunglasses for daytime protection.
For several days, avoid heavy lifting, straining, rubbing the eye, or situations where the eye could be hit. Showering and shampooing are fine as long as soap doesn’t touch the eye, and makeup should be avoided for a few weeks. Stay away from public swimming pools and hot tubs. Always consult your doctor if you're unsure about post-surgery activities.
How often do I need to have my eyes checked after surgery?
Your doctor will check your eyes the day after surgery, and, depending on your particular case, again after about two to four weeks,and again after about three to six months. After that, annual eye exams are recommended, unless a specific problem develops.
Will I have to have cataract surgery again?
In cataract surgery, the natural lens is replaced with a durable artificial lens that should last a lifetime. Some patients may experience clouding of the membrane holding the lens, known as the capsular bag. This can be treated with a quick, painless laser procedure called capsulotomy, which creates a hole to allow light to pass through clearly.
Is advanced technology IOL implantation covered by insurance?
Most private insurance covers cataract surgery and anesthesia but may only partially cover the cost of advanced technology IOLs, as they are considered non-standard. Patients should consult with their doctor and insurance provider to explore their options.
Before your procedure
The technology behind the LenSx® Laser captures high-resolution images of your eyes. These images yield precise measurements and data that help your surgeon plan and perform a procedure to exacting specifications.
During your procedure
The LenSx® Laser system’s advanced, three-dimensional imaging helps your surgeon automate and execute the most challenging steps of traditional cataract surgery.
After your procedure
The LenSx® Laser is designed to increase the precision of cataract surgery. Many patients experience improved vision after two weeks, and they approach optimal vision between two and four months after their procedure.
Advancing cataract surgery
The LenSx® Laser offers a bladeless, personalized procedure with precise, reproducible performance, enhanced control, and efficiency. Each procedure is custom-planned and performed by your surgeon. Every year, 3 million patients benefit from the LenSx® Laser, helping them rediscover their favorite activities.
Does customized cataract surgery cost more?
While customized procedures are associated with an increased expense compared with basic cataract surgery, the investment may help reduce the need for glasses.
What Are The Risks of Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery with IOL implants is very safe, with serious complications like infection or retinal detachment being extremely rare. At Digby Eye Associates, over 99% of patients achieve good vision post-surgery, barring preexisting eye conditions.
Serious complications with IOL implants are extremely rare. It is a safe and effective procedure but like any procedure, it does have some risks. Potential complications include infection or hemorrhage within the eye, retinal detachment or persistent double vision. The odds of experiencing any of these complications are very low–between one in 1,000 for hemorrhages and one in 10,000 for infections. Usually, such rare complications can be treated or controlled, either during the surgery or afterward.
The very small risks associated with cataract surgery are more than offset by the excellent results. At Digby Eye Associates, over 99 percent of cataract surgery patients enjoy good vision after their surgeries, when no other serious eye problems existed before the surgery. Eye diseases or problems with the retina or optic nerve may limit the potential for clear vision even when the cataract surgery itself has been successful.
Secondary Cataracts
A small percentage of patients develop "secondary cataracts" after surgery, causing clouded vision. This isn't a true cataract but a treatable condition. A quick, painless YAG Laser procedure restores clear vision by creating an opening in the lens capsule.
A small percentage of people develop a condition known as secondary cataracts in the months or years after cataract surgery. In these cases, new cloudy cells gradually cover the back of the lens capsule, just as frost covers a window. Light cannot be focused clearly through these cloudy cells and vision is once again obscured. People may fear that their cataracts have returned. It is not possible for a cataract to grow back completely, so the term “secondary cataract” is misleading.
Fortunately, secondary cataracts can be treated very easily. A quick, painless laser treatment called a YAG Laser makes a small opening in the back of the lens capsule, without disturbing the lens implant or any other tissues within the eye. Light can once again be focused on the retina and clear vision is restored.