Cataracts are a common eye condition affecting approximately 22 million Americans over age 40. About 60 percent of people over age 60 will develop cataracts. Although your chances of eventually developing cataracts may be high, it’s important to know that you have options when it comes to treatment.
Cataracts are a clouding of the focusing lens of the eye caused by protein deposits on the lens. Cataracts cannot be removed and progression of cataracts cannot be slowed or reversed. Once cataracts begin to develop, there is no way to make the lens clear again. Cataracts will steadily limit a person’s ability to perform simple tasks such as seeing street signs, reading a book or driving at night.
In order to restore vision that has been lost due to cataracts, the clouded lens must be removed and replaced with artificial lens implant. When it comes to cataract surgery at Key-Whitman, patients have a number of treatment options. The right treatment for you depends on your vision needs and lifestyle.
Cataract Treatment Options at Key-Whitman
High technology lenses: Patients who live an active lifestyle and do not want the hassle of wearing glasses after cataract surgery may have the option of high technology lenses such as Trulign® and Crystalens®, TECNIS® Multifocal Lens or AcrySof® IQ ReSTOR®. These high technology lens options may give patients the option of continuing their active lifestyle without the encumbrance of glasses and contacts after cataract surgery.
Correction for cataracts and astigmatism: Toric lenses and Limbal Relaxing Incisions (LRI) are two cataract removal options for patients who also have astigmatism.
These treatment options may leave the patient less dependent on glasses for most activities that require distance vision, although the patient will still need glasses for activities such as reading.
Monofocal lenses or traditional lenses: Patients who don’t mind wearing glasses may prefer traditional lens implants or monofocal lenses. These cataract treatment options are the most basic type of lens implant. A monofocal lens implant can provide good vision but the patient will require a new prescription for glasses after surgery. They do not correct near vision for doing things like playing cards or seeing a golf ball on a tee. The majority of patients electing to have monofocal or traditional lens implants will be dependent on glasses or bifocals either some or most of the time.
To choose the right cataract treatment option for you, have a conversation with your eye doctor. Once cataracts have been diagnosed through a comprehensive eye exam, your doctor will guide you toward the treatment option best suited for you.
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