A cataract represents a change in the structure of the human lens, leading to opacities that blur vision. Common symptoms include difficulty reading, seeing street signs and glare from oncoming car headlights. Timing of cataract surgery is usually dictated by the patient, when the symptoms of a cataract begin to interfere with the activities of daily life.
A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. It can be compared to a window that is frosted or yellowed. The amount and pattern of cloudiness within the lens can vary. If the cloudiness is not near the center of the lens, you may not be aware that a cataract is present.
There are many misconceptions about cataract. Cataract is not:
Cataract surgery involves replacing the cloudy human lens with an artificial lens. Because of advances in lens design and surgical techniques, our surgeons are able to address presbyopia (the need for reading glasses), astigmatism, and many times both at the time of your surgery. Patients wishing to reduce or eliminate their dependence on glasses may be interested in our customized approach to cataract surgery.
“Will I be comfortable during cataract surgery?”
A cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy human lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens. Topical anesthesia is usually employed; gels and drops are used to numb the eye to help prevent pain and discomfort during the procedure. This avoids the need for placing a needle behind the eye to inject anesthetic.
Most cataract surgeries are between five and fifteen minutes in length. This approach makes surgery easier on patients and also decreases the risk of infection and other complications. While short operative times are not necessarily the goal, they typically are the result of disciplined surgery. Our approach to cataract surgery involves continued review of developing operative techniques and technology, separating what is new from what is better.
Tower Clock Eye Center ophthalmologist Dr. Matthew Thompson is in Jamaica this week, not for vacation but for work on behalf of FOCUS. Dr. Matt is providing much needed eye care to the less fortunate on the island. His broad expertise in eye medicine, specifically cataracts and cornea care, is being put to use as... read more
January is #glaucomaawareness month! Check out Dr. Kurt Schwiesow explain glaucoma basics, including how the disease progresses, the importance of screening, and specific risk factors. Glaucoma is among the leading causes of blindness worldwide. The disease progresses slowly which results in people not realizing their vision is being reduced.