Cataracts
Cataracts are among the most common age-related eye conditions, affecting millions of adults, though they can also result from injury, certain medications, or underlying health conditions. The good news is that cataracts are highly treatable. At Prestera Eye Medical Group, our experienced eye doctors use advanced diagnostic tools and proven surgical techniques to restore clearer vision and help patients return to the activities they love. Understanding how cataracts form and progress is the first step toward protecting your long-term eye health.
What Causes Cataracts to Develop?
When a cataract develops, it means the natural lens of the eye has become clouded. This affects a person’s quality of vision, causing blurred vision, glare sensitivity, and faded colors that can make everyday tasks like reading, driving, and recognizing faces increasingly difficult. If left untreated, it can continue to progress to the point of causing blindness. Cataracts affect nearly all adults as they age, but can affect younger individuals, as well, so it is important to schedule an eye exam regularly.
What Are Symptoms of Cataracts?
Some of the signs and symptoms of cataracts include:
- Blurry or clouded vision
- Seeing distorted or yellowed colors
- A “halo” effect around lights
- Light sensitivity
- “Ghost” images
- Double vision
- Difficulty with night vision
- Glare
- Progressive deterioration of vision
If you are experiencing some or all of the symptoms noted above and think you may have developed cataracts, please contact us today to make an appointment. In your consultation, one of our experienced cataract surgeons will conduct a thorough evaluation of your vision and speak with you about your options.
What Are Cataract Treatment Options?
At Prestera Eye Medical Group, Dr. Tory Prestera, Dr. Guan, and Dr. Pyun perform cataract surgery with the latest technology and techniques, and utilize premium intraocular lenses and posterior capsule opacification procedures for exceptional outcomes.
Cataract Surgery
During cataract surgery, the clouded lens is removed and replaced with a specialized device called an intraocular lens (IOL). At Prestera Eye, our surgeons are highly trained and experienced in handling even complex cataract cases. With the wide range of premium IOLs available at our practice, Dr. Prestera, Dr. Guan, and Dr. Pyun can customize your surgical plan to ensure patient satisfaction.
Multifocal & Toric IOLS
Dr. Prestera, Dr. Guan, and Dr. Pyun offer a variety of intraocular lens (IOL) options, to provide patients with the best possible outcomes. Advanced technology intraocular lenses such as multifocal and toric IOLs can offer patients less dependence on glasses after surgery. Multifocal IOLs have a unique advantage over monofocal IOLs, since monofocal lenses can only focus on either near vision or far vision, meaning the patient would typically still require glasses. With multifocal lenses, the effects of presbyopia can be addressed by improving the eye’s ability to see both near and far. Additionally, we offer toric IOLs for patients with astigmatism.
Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO)
Many patients wonder if cataracts can come back after cataract surgery. Thankfully, once the eye’s natural lens has been replaced with an IOL, a cataract cannot form again. However, in some rare cases, scar tissue can form behind the IOL, on the lens capsule (the membrane that previously surrounded the natural lens). This is referred to as posterior capsule opacification (PCO). PCO causes clouded vision similar to what is experienced with cataracts, but a repeat cataract surgery is not necessary. Treatment for PCO is fairly simple — our doctors can resolve the issue with the use of a specialized laser designed to clear the scar tissue, allowing light to pass through the eye again. This procedure can be done in a few minutes in our office.
Can Cataracts Be Prevented?
While there’s no guaranteed way to prevent cataracts, since age-related changes to the eye’s lens are a natural part of aging, certain lifestyle choices may help slow their development or delay onset. Steps that can support long-term lens health include:
- Wearing quality sunglasses to protect your eyes from ultraviolet light
- Avoiding smoking, which has been linked to faster cataract development
- Managing chronic conditions such as diabetes
- Eating a diet rich in antioxidants, including leafy greens, colorful fruits, and vegetables
- Limiting excessive alcohol consumption
- Wearing protective eyewear during activities that may result in an eye injury
Perhaps most importantly, routine comprehensive eye exams allow our doctors to detect cataracts early, monitor their progression, and recommend treatment before they significantly impact your daily life. At Prestera Eye Medical Group, we encourage patients to schedule regular checkups as part of a proactive approach to preserving vision.
Contact Prestera Eye Medical Group
To learn more about cataracts, or to schedule an appointment with Dr. Prestera, Dr. Guan, or Dr. Pyun, please contact us today.