What Are Cataracts?

A cataract is a clouding or yellowing of the usually transparent lens inside the eye. It is not a film or growth on the front of the eye but a breakdown of proteins that cause blurriness and diminished colors.  The light is blocked and scattered, resulting in glare or double vision. 

Cataracts are a common age-related vision loss issue; however, eye injuries, illness, and certain medications can also contribute to the disorder. Progression is typically slow, but the addition of other eye conditions can accelerate degeneration.

The different types of cataracts are:

• Nuclear Sclerotic Cataract is the most common type that progresses slowly with aging. The natural lens becomes denser, and the center of the lens turns yellow or brown.
• Cortical Cataracts form a white-gray film in the outer lens cortex and gradually extend to the center. This type of cataract is more likely to cause trouble with nighttime driving.
• Posterior Sub Capsular Cataract (PSC) can occur at a younger age and progress rapidly. A PSC is an opacity on the back surface of the lens. Patients with diabetes, radiation treatment, and trauma are more prone to develop this type of cataract.
• Combined can often be a combination of the types listed above.

What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts?

In the early stages, you may not notice the changes. They can occur in both eyes or one and are also common in other eye diseases. If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is essential to see your eye doctor as soon as possible. 

Cataract symptoms include:

• A gradual deterioration in vision over time
• Objects may appear yellow, hazy, blurred or distorted
• Reduced vision at night or in low-light conditions
• Vision in bright light or the sun can be impaired due to glare
• Halos may appear around bright lights at night

If cataracts limit your vision or become so cloudy that even the best prescription of glasses or contacts don’t help, then you may be a good candidate for cataract surgery.

Experienced Cataract Treatment in St. Louis

Premium Options for Cataract Surgery

How to Treat Cataracts

After all your pre-op evaluations, your surgery will start with the proper anesthesia. This surgery is non-invasive, so you won’t need to be under general anesthesia. You’ll receive topical numbing eye drops and intravenous sedation to keep you relaxed and comfortable. Due to the quick duration of this surgery and lack of pain, IV sedation is all that is needed.

Next, a tiny incision is made manually or with a laser at the junction of the white and colored parts of the eye. Laser cataract surgery uses a micro-incision that seals without sutures in most cases. A sophisticated ultrasound vacuum removes the clouded cataract from its transparent membrane sac, called the capsule.

An intraocular lens or IOL is inserted into the empty capsule, providing a clear pathway for light. The implant is individually calibrated to your eye’s prescription. Nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism, and presbyopia can be corrected simultaneously when the cataract is removed. This process can significantly reduce or sometimes eliminate the need for distance glasses.

Post-Op Care for Cataract Surgery in St. Louis, MO

Cataract Surgery FAQs

How do I know if I am a candidate for cataract surgery?
You may be a good candidate for cataract surgery if you are experiencing decreased or blurred vision, glare and halos, impaired depth perception, increased color distortion, or are having trouble seeing even with your new glasses.

What are the benefits of cataract surgery?
Good vision is essential for a healthy lifestyle. Numerous studies show that cataract surgery enables you to enjoy your favorite activities again, including reading, sewing, playing cards, and golfing. Many people feel more confident and safe driving and report that their quality of life improves after the procedure.

Will I still have to wear glasses after cataract surgery?
Whether glasses or contacts are needed after your procedure depends on the type of lens implant you receive. If you choose mono-focal lenses, you must wear glasses for either distance or up-close work since these lenses focus only at one distance. If you upgrade to premium multifocal lenses, you will have a broader range of vision and more freedom from glasses.

How long will it take for my vision to become normal?
After the surgery, you may notice an immediate improvement with some initial blurriness. After the surgery, the eye needs time to heal and adjust, and the prescription needs to stabilize. This may take several weeks.

How long depends on your chosen lens and how severe the cataracts were before surgery. A corneal pathology or procedure may take several weeks to heal, and objects may appear brighter and colors more vivid. 

Does insurance pay for cataract surgery?
Since cataract surgery is a medical procedure, many insurance companies and Medicare will cover a mono-focal lens. Check with your insurance provider. If you choose a multifocal or premium lens, you may have to pay additional costs to upgrade. Hill Vision Services can help you understand your financing options and what questions to ask your benefits administrator.