June is Cataract Awareness Month, so what better time to shed light on cataracts?
Below, you’ll find useful information about cataract surgery and important topics to discuss with your eye doctor before opting for surgery.
But First, What are Cataracts?
Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s natural crystalline lens. A person with cataracts may experience any of the following symptoms:
- Blurred/hazy vision
- Colors appear as less vibrant
- Difficulty seeing at night or in dim lighting
- Difficulty with night driving due to glare sensitivity
- A change in your corrective lens prescription
Cataracts are extremely common and generally affect people over the age of 55, although younger adults and children can develop cataracts after an eye injury or infection.
If the cataracts are minor and don’t interfere with your vision, the general recommendation is not to treat them. Once cataracts begin to impede your vision, surgery may be necessary to replace the clouded lens with a clear artificial one.
If you’re considering cataract surgery, we urge you to discuss the following topics with your eye doctor at your next visit.
#1: When Cataract Surgery is Needed
Just because you have cataracts doesn’t mean you need cataract surgery in the near future. Ask your eye doctor if your cataracts should be treated with surgery, or when to consider it. Cataract surgery, just like any other surgical procedure, carries a risk of infection and complications, however low. Additionally, not every person is a candidate for cataract surgery, so be sure to discuss your eligibility with your eye doctor as well.
#2: Which Cataract Surgery is Best For You
There are 2 types of cataract surgery: small incision surgery and extracapsular. Each procedure has pros and cons, and your eye doctor will guide you to the choice that suits you best. Both types of cataract surgery have high success rates and minimal adverse effects.
#3: Cataract Replacement Lens Options
The type of intraocular lens (IOL) you receive matters, as it will directly affect your quality of vision after the surgery. For example, if you require both up-close and distance vision correction, multifocal IOLs may be for you. Alternatively, some patients will prefer to have monovision lenses inserted to correct both near and far vision. Your eye doctor will discuss your lifestyle and visual needs to help determine which lens will serve you best.
#4: Who Performs Cataract Surgery
You’ll want to choose an eye surgeon with ample experience performing successful cataract surgery. At Opto-mization Optometry & Vision Therapy, you can rest assured that your eyes and vision are in good hands. Our professional team of eye health professionals has the qualifications, skills and experience to provide you with the best possible outcome.
#5: Where to Have Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is generally performed in an outpatient center of a hospital, so you’ll be able to return home after your surgery. You may have several locations to choose from, so speak with your eye doctor about which option works best for both of you.
Cataract Surgery in Victoria
If you have cataracts and are looking for an eye doctor who can help, look no further than Opto-mization Optometry & Vision Therapy.
Our experienced eye doctors will guide you through the entire process, and discuss all aspects of your eye health so you’ll have peace of mind and confidence in your decision.
To schedule a consultation or learn more about what we offer, call Opto-mization Optometry & Vision Therapy in Victoria today!
Our practice serves patients from Victoria, Nanaimo, Duncan, and Vancouver Island, British Columbia and surrounding communities.
Frequently Asked Questions with Scott Irvine, O.D.
Q: What Causes Cataracts?
A: Though the majority of cases develop after the age of 60, there are rare instances when cataracts are present at birth or result due to injury, surgery or disease. Moreover, certain medical, genetic, and behavioral risk factors can also lead to its development, such as diabetes, a family history of cataracts, excessive alcohol consumption and smoking.
Q: What Happens if Cataracts are Left Untreated?
A: Over time, cataracts can lead to vision loss, vision impairment and total blindness if left untreated. In fact, cataracts are the number one cause of blindness around the world.
