Considering Cataract Surgery?
A number of our patients come to see us because they need to discuss the next steps towards getting rid of their cataract. We realize that some people are nervous by this conversation but it’s nothing to fear. We want to ensure that you and your family are fully confident in knowing what a cataract is, how common it is, and how quickly we can help you get rid of it and begin enjoying your life with great sight!
What is a Cataract?
Everyone has a natural lens in both of their eyes. Cataracts form in the actual lens – not on top or underneath it. “I see a number of patients that think a cataract is something that is laying on top of their lens, as if we can simply go in and remove the covering. It doesn’t exactly work that way, but the actual procedure isn’t much more complicated. It’s so simple, the procedure of removing and replacing the lens is completed in 10 or 15 minutes” said Dr. James McHale, an Ophthalmologist and Managing Partner at Columbus Ophthalmology Associates who says he completes this procedure hundreds of times a year. Like Dr. McHale said, a cataract is when the lens, which is clear most of your life, becomes cloudy. At a point, that cloudiness can cause blurry or foggy vision, problems with glare from headlights or the sun, a dullness in color, and other issues. See photo below of what someone with normal vision versus someone with a cataract would see if they looked at the same photo:
How do you treat Cataracts?
Removal and replacement of the cloudy lens with an Intra-Ocular Lens is the only way to treat a cataract. But don’t worry, it’s not a difficult procedure at all! Cataract surgery is one of the most successful operations in all of medicine and it has excellent results. The actual procedure only takes up to 15 minutes – and there are no sutures to deal with. Your healing time is quick and most people resume normal activities in days! Cataract surgery is such a common procedure, that by the age of 80, half of all Americans have a cataract or have had cataract surgery. So if you have to have this procedure, we don’t want you to worry at all! We’re here to help you through it.
If you would like more information on Cataract Surgery, watch this quick video:
If you are struggling with cataracts and this is a treatment you need to have, hopefully this will encourage you to further look into completing your cataract surgery. Remember, you are always free to call our office and speak with someone to ask questions and to schedule an appointment to see one of our Ophthalmologists. We would be happy to see you and discuss your options for a brighter, and clearer, vision future!