If you or a loved one have recently been diagnosed with cataracts, it is only natural to have a few questions. The same may apply to those with a family history of cataracts. A family history of cataracts also raises your own risk for developing them.
It’s also natural to feel some anxiety or fear about the possibility of cataract surgery. One of the best ways to reduce anxiety you may have about the procedure is to have your questions answered.
Knowledge is power, after all! Keep reading to find out more about cataracts!
Question: How are Cataracts Diagnosed in Early Stages?
Answer:
Cataracts are not usually noticed by people in their early stages. This is because its symptoms are not noticeable until vision has become affected.
Early stage diagnosis can be helpful with a comprehensive eye examination. This eye exam can pick up any other visual problems that don’t show symptoms like glaucoma.
Question: Is Cataract Surgery Dangerous?
Answer:
You should know that cataract surgery is one of the most performed procedures in the country. This speaks to the prevalence of cataracts and how many people are affected.
The majority of cataract patients experience no complications. As the procedure has evolved, cataract surgery has only become more reliable.
Question: What Are the Possible Risks and Complications of Cataract Surgery?
Answer:
Risks and complications associated with cataract surgery are minimal and rare. Risks from cataract surgery include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Retinal detachment
Your cataract surgeon will provide you with a list of potential complications. They will also answer any questions that you may have about cataract surgery.
It’s important to be well informed before undergoing the procedure. Being well informed can help reduce your anxieties or fears.
Question: How is a Cataract Removed?
Answer:
Your cataract surgeon will first create a tiny incision in the surface of the eye. Once the incision’s created, they will remove the natural lens clouded by the cataract.
Once the lens has been removed, your surgeon leaves the membrane on the back of the eye intact. Leaving it intact allows for the implantation of the artificial lens, or IOL.
Question: What is an Intraocular Lens?
Answer:
An intraocular lens, or IOL, is a synthetic lens implanted in the eye. Once implanted, it replaces the natural lens that has become clouded by the cataract.
IOLs come in single-vision and advanced options. The advanced options are premium lenses. With a premium IOL, you can see both up close and far away.
This is significant because premium IOLs provide vision at all distances, without glasses. With single-vision IOLs, only distance vision is available. That means that you’ll still need reading glasses if you need to see up close.
Question: Will I Need Glasses After Cataract Surgery?
Answer:
Whether you need glasses after cataract surgery depends on the IOL you choose. If you go with a monofocal IOL, you’ll still need reading glasses to see anything up close.
Have more questions about cataracts and cataract surgery? Contact Riverside Eye Center in Auburn, ME and schedule an appointment today!