7 Things You Should Know About Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is the only way to completely remove cataracts. Are you considering cataract surgery for yourself or someone you love? Here are seven things you should know and understand about cataract surgery and intraocular lens implants (IOLs) at Illinois Eye Center.

1. The American Optometric Association considers cataract surgery to be “one of the safest and most successful surgical procedures available.”

   Many eye problems are successfully treated with cataract surgery.

2. Cataract surgery allows you to see more clearly.

   Cataract surgery treats advanced cataracts that interfere with clear vision. Cataracts can make it hard to read, drive, see at night, and perform your usual activities. With cataract surgery, your improved vision will allow you to pursue activities that were difficult with cataracts like reading, writing, and recreational activities. Clearer vision will also improve the safety of driving and nighttime activities.

3. Cataract surgery is more convenient than ever before.

   Patients can return home on the same day as surgery and recover from the comfort of their home with minimal follow-up visits to monitor progress. In most cases, this outpatient procedure takes 5 to 20 minutes. Patients are awake during surgery and only require local anesthesia.

4. Consider the premium IOL options.

   An IOL is a clear plastic lens that replaces the natural lens affected by the cataract.

   1. The most basic option to replace your eye’s natural lens is the monofocal lens. This type of lens provides good distance vision, but you’ll still need to wear glasses for reading or other near-sighted activities.
   2. Patients with astigmatism have the option of the astigmatism package with an Advanced Technology Toric Monofocal IOL. This option reduces astigmatism and allows you to lessen your dependence on glasses for distance vision. You may still need to wear glasses for intermediate and close distance vision post-surgery.
   3. For patients who are interested in being less dependent on glasses, the presbyopia package with the Aspheric Multifocal or Accommodating IOL, is an excellent option. Presbyopia, a natural symptom of aging, is when the eyes gradually lose the ability to focus on nearby objects, making daily eyeglass and contact wear a necessity. The presbyopia package can reduce or completely eliminate the need for glasses at all ranges, for people with or without astigmatism.

5. Each type of IOL has different benefits.

   So a thorough understanding of your eye health needs and an in-depth discussion with your eye surgeon is necessary prior to selection.

6. 
   

   Recovery time for cataract surgery is minimal.

   Patients can return home the day of the surgery. Physical activities will be limited, such as those involving lifting and bending. In most cases, eyes will completely heal within approximately eight weeks. Periodic follow-up visits will monitor your recovery.

7. You may still need corrective eyewear.

   Many individuals benefit from a prescription for reading glasses or contact lenses in cases when a multifocal or accommodating IOL lens was not selected to replace the natural lens of the eye.

Explore the intraocular lens implant options available at Illinois Eye Center and download our free brochure today. Say goodbye to cloudy vision and schedule an appointment today for a free consultation.