Cataracts

What is a Cataract?

A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye that influences vision. Most cataracts are identified with maturing. By age 80, a large percentage of the population either has a cataract or has undergone cataract surgery.

To treat your cataract, the cloudy lens is replaced with an implanted clear lens. The lens remains inside your eye for the rest of your life and should not need further replacement. Cataract surgery has existed for over a century, but recent innovations in technology have improved visual outcomes to reduce the dependence on glasses and improve the overall healing.

Some patients have the choice to upgrade to a new premium type of intraocular lens (IOL) that will enable clear vision at multiple distances. In addition to the new lens implants available, less invasive surgical techniques have come to fruition to enable much faster healing. Despite the effectiveness of cataract surgery, the preparation process may take weeks and various decisions will need to be made. Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed medical procedures, with over 3 million surgeries performed each year.

During cataract surgery, the cloudy lens of your eye is removed and replaced with a clear lens implant. You will need to discuss with your doctor what type of lens implant you want and need in order to achieve optimal vision after cataract surgery. Patients having cataract surgery now have an option of monofocal lens implants for seeing at one distance only or multifocal (also called premium lens implants) that enable vision at near, far, and intermediate distances. We are now also excited to offer the Light-Adjustable Lens implant, which is completely adjustable after your surgery. Our cataract surgeon, Dr. Daniel Goodman, will help you determine what type of lens implant is most suitable for your visual needs and lifestyle.

 

Cataract Surgery in San Francisco

Cataract surgery is performed under guided anesthesia. You will also receive a topical anesthetic eye drop. The procedure takes about 15 minutes and overall is painless. Dr. Goodman uses an ultrasonic tool to break up your natural lens and remove it to make space for the implant lens. The implanted lens is then placed through the same self-healing incision.

It is critical that you examine your visual goals to decide on the appropriate implant lens. Premium intraocular lenses (IOLs) can provide good distance and near vision without eyeglasses. Laser-guided (femtosecond) cataract surgery provides faster healing times and improves visual outcomes.

Recuperating from Cataract surgery is quick and moderately simple. Most patients will notice enhanced vision with their new lens after 24 hours. It is critical that you follow all of the post-operative instructions.

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