Cataract
Cataract is a common but treatable cause of visual loss where the natural lens of the eye becomes clouded. Cataracts can be caused by injury, certain medications, illness (such as diabetes), prolonged exposure to ultraviolet, and smoking. Millions of people including more than half of Americans over the age of 65 are affected by cataracts. Vision in patients with early cataract can often be improved with a change in eye glass prescription, though, as the cataract progresses, cataract surgery is the only option for visual rehabilitation.
Symptoms of Cataract
- Blurry or hazy vision
- Double Vision
- Sensitivity to glare
- Frequent changes in eyeglasses prescription
- Poor night time vision
- Vision that has a yellow tinge
Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is a minimally invasive procedure that is typically performed on an out- patient basis using local anesthesia. Cataract surgery replaces the cloudy natural lens of the eye with a clear artificial lens known as an intraocular lens (IOL). Dr. Greco performs small- incision cataract surgery called phacoemulsification, also known as phaco surgery. Through small incisions in the eye, special instruments are used to deliver ultrasound power to break up the crystalline lens and remove it from the eye. Usually, an acrylic or silicone lens is then inserted in the eye to replace the cataract. This leaves the eye with a normal power at the end of the surgery. Because of its small size, the incision usually does not require a stitch.
Alcon LenSx Laser®
The Alcon LenSx laser® is a femtosecond laser that improves the precision and the safety of Cataract Surgery. It is a highly customized procedure using advanced technology to facilitate cataract removal and to correct refractive errors with specialized intraocular lenses and laser-directed incisions to reduce astigmatism. This can greatly reduce the need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery. In addition, patients experience quicker recovery and reduced inflammation post operatively. Contact our office to see if you are a candidate for Cataract Surgery with the LenSx laser®.
Premium Lens Implants
Premium lens Implants reduce the need for glasses or contacts after cataract surgery by correcting near-sightedness, far-sightedness and astigmatism while providing vision at close range. Multifocal implants utilize diffractive optics in order to achieve vision from distance through the reading range. Extended depth of field implants allow for vision from distance to the intermediate range. Depending on the needs of the individual patient and the health of their eyes, the patient can be counseled regarding which type of Premium lens Implant would best suit their needs. Contact our office if you would like more information regarding Premium lens Implants.
YAG Posterior Capsulotomy
Yag Laser Posterior Capsulotomy is laser surgery to correct the most common after affect of cataract surgery called posterior capsular opacification or PCO. When PCO occurs, the patient experiences a recurrence of the visual difficulties that precipitated the original cataract surgery. During cataract surgery, the clouded lens in the eye is removed from the capsule and is replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens or IOL. Weeks, months, and even years after the surgery, some patients may again experience diminished or abnormal vision. This may result if the lens capsule has become cloudy or wrinkled. When visual difficulties become too intrusive in daily life, a Yag Laser Posterior Capsulotomy can be performed on a outpatient basis to restore vision.
