Why did I get cataracts?
Cataracts can be caused by trauma or injury to the eye, but they are commonly associated with the aging process. As you grow older, the natural proteins in your eyes can start to clump onto your eye lenses, causing cloudy and discolored vision. Your risk for getting cataracts may increase if you are a smoker, overindulge in alcohol, don’t wear sunglasses when outdoors or have a health problem such as diabetes. Having a family history of cataracts also puts you at greater risk.
What will happen if I ignore cataracts?
It is possible to live with cataracts for many years if they are not affecting your vision. However, cataracts will grow in size and density over time. If you do not have the cataracts removed, you will most likely experience vision impairment, vision loss or even blindness.
Can special glasses or medicines correct cataracts?
The only way to treat cataracts is by having the cloudy lens surgically removed and replaced with a clear Intraocular Lens (IOL). There are no glasses or medications that can make a cataract go away naturally.
Is cataract surgery painful?
Even though you will remain awake during your procedure, most patients are amazed at how little they feel during the procedure. We administer topical anesthesia (eye drops) and I.V. sedation, which allows our patients the fastest possible visual recovery. Only one eye is treated at a time – your second eye surgery will be scheduled after your first eye has fully healed (in approximately 2 weeks).
Which should I choose: traditional or laser-assisted cataract surgery?
We offer no-stitch, no-shot cataract surgery as well as laser-assisted cataract surgery using the CATALYS® Precision Laser System. Both are very effective and safe treatments. We will explain each option to you in detail and let you know which one we recommend for your unique eyes. The laser-assisted option may produce better overall vision results, but it truly depends on your eye anatomy and vision goals. Ultimately, the decision is up to you!
Will insurance cover cataract surgery?
Traditional cataract surgery with monofocal lenses is covered by most insurances and Medicare. However, many of our patients want more: they want better vision outcomes and the possibility of reducing or eliminating glasses after surgery. Certain options are considered elective, so there may be some out-of-pocket costs if you choose laser-assisted surgery and/or specialty Intraocular Lenses (IOLs). We will explain the costs associated with these vision upgrade options during your cataract evaluation.
