The word “surgery” can sound scary, especially when it comes to your eyes. But for many people affected by cataracts, surgery can restore the ability to clearly see a grandchild’s first smiles, drive safely at night and enjoy an evening book without reading glasses. For those people, surgery can mean a brighter life.
Since June is Vision Research month, let’s take a moment to appreciate how far eyecare research has come. Not very long ago, the increasingly blurred vision associated with cataracts was considered an inevitable side effect of aging.
Now, doctors can not only rid patients of cataracts, but replace them with state-of-the-art lenses that replace or reduce dependence on glasses. So, how does it work?
First, a little bit about cataracts surgery
Cataracts is a very common condition that causes a clouding of the normally clear lens. In most cases, a 15-minute outpatient procedure is all it takes to correct it.
During the procedure, the cloudy lens is gently broken up with an ultrasound probe and suctioned out. With the old lens gone, a replacement lens, called an Intraocular Lens Transplant (IOL), is added in its place.
The magic is in the lens
Depending on the type of IOL you and your doctor choose, you can expect sharper vision for at least one distance. Here’s a breakdown of the IOL options available today:
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Which lens is right for you?
If your ultimate goal is to be less dependent on glasses, an Accommodating or Multifocal Lens may be an option for you. But no matter which option you choose, vision after cataract surgery is clearly better for many patients.