Featured this month: Yannis Kolettis, M.D., Comprehensive Ophthalmology, Refractive Surgery (LASIK) , Cataract Surgery
“A cataract is a clouding of your eye’s natural lens, which leads to blurring of vision. Cataracts develop as we age, so we all acquire them eventually. In the early stages, cataracts cause some symptoms that may be improved with updated prescription eyeglasses, brighter lighting, anti-glare sunglasses or magnifying lenses.
Ultimately, as cataracts advance, you will require a surgical procedure to remove the cataract and have an artificial implant (called an “intraocular lens” – IOL) placed. Routine cataract surgery is performed at an outpatient surgical facility and cases typically take less than 15 minutes. Eye drops are used to numb the eye and a mild IV sedative is administered.
Cataracts are generally removed sequentially; often two weeks apart, and once removed will not grow back. You will use eye drops for about one month in each eye to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
The recovery is typically uneventful and you should be able to return to work within a few days. Activities such as reading, watching TV and walking may be resumed the day after surgery. Once adequate healing has taken place, you will be measured for new eyeglasses.
If you choose to look at alternatives that reduce your dependence on eyeglasses after surgery, Illinois Eye Center provides patients with a variety of IOL choices, including those that correct astigmatism (toric IOLs) and those that potentially reduce the need for glasses altogether (multifocal IOLs). We can help determine which IOL is right for you based on your eyes, visual desires and lifestyle. We’d be happy to talk with you about your options today. Simply schedule a cataract evaluation by visiting our website or giving us a call at (309) 243-2400.” – Dr. Yannis Kolettis