A cataract is a vision impairment resulting from a cloudiness of the lens in the eye that prevents light from being focused clearly. Cataracts typically form naturally with age. Most people have some clouding of their lenses by age 60.
Symptoms of cataracts include:
- Cloudy vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Halos around lights
- Frequent changes in glasses or contacts prescriptions
- Double vision in one eye
- Poor night vision
- Light sensitivity
- Seeing faded colors
Treatment Options
Cataract surgery is the only treatment for cataracts and is one of the most commonly performed surgical procedures in the United States. Cataract surgery has been shown to significantly improve vision and quality of life for patients who undergo the procedure. Some eye diseases or medical conditions can increase the risk for complications from cataract surgery, so it is important to discuss your medical history with your ophthalmologist.
If you think it may be time for cataract surgery, we offer a host of the latest advancements in lens implants and surgical procedure options to create a custom experience for every cataract patient. Cataract surgery is performed in our out -patient ambulatory surgery center, where our focus is solely on surgery of the eye and its surrounding structures.
During cataract surgery, the physician makes a small incision in the cornea with a handheld blade or with a laser. A small probe then breaks up and removes your cataract, and your new lens is inserted. In most cases, no stitches are required because the incision is so small. After the surgery your eye will be protected with a bandage or shield, which can typically be removed within a few hours.
Although traditional cataract surgery is very effective and successful, when considering your surgical options, laser cataract surgery can offer a host of benefits over traditional procedures and can help you experience the best possible long-term vision. Laser surgery allows the surgeon to perform certain key steps within cataract surgery with a laser rather than a hand-held blade.
The benefits of laser surgery include:
- The laser provides an extremely detailed 3-D image of the eye. Since each eye is different with regards to its structures, the surgeon can use the measurements the laser provides to plan your surgery much more precisely.
- The laser enables better centering of the intraocular lens which is a significant factor in determining final visual outcomes.
- The laser enables the physician to simultaneously correct certain amounts of regular astigmatism to reduce your need for glasses.
Schedule an appointment
To schedule an examination to determine if it is time for you to have cataract surgery, or a cataract surgery consultation at any of Columbia Eye Clinic’s three convenient locations, contact us at (803) 779-3070.
Watch to Learn More About Cataracts and Cataract Surgery