Vision Reference - Learn About Your Eyes

Cataract Surgery

Leaders in Eye Care, Experts in Cataract Surgery

What is a Cataract?
A cataract is a progressive clouding of the eye's natural lens that interferes with light passing through to the retina. More than 50% of people over age 60, and some younger, have cataracts. Cataracts worsen over time and vision changes are like looking through a waterfall or wax paper. Reading becomes more difficult and driving dangerous. Noticeable effects include bothersome glares, halos around lights, and/or double vision.

How are Cataracts treated?
There is no treatment to reverse or prevent cataracts. To achieve clear vision, the cataract must be removed. During cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is replaced with an artificial Intra-Ocular Lens (IOL). The procedure only takes a few minutes and is performed on an outpatient basis with local or “eye drop” anesthesia.

Step-by-Step No-Stitch Cataract Surgery
A small incision is made in the side of the cornea. An ultrasonic probe (phacoemulsifier) is used to break up and remove the cloudy lens. An artificial intra-ocular lens is inserted. The lens is in place and the incision heals without stitches.
1. Small corneal incision. 2. Probe used to breakup and remove the cataract. 3. IOL inserted in place of cloudy lens. 4. The lens is in place and the incision heals without stitches.