The first true cataract surgery was performed in 1747, and today it is the most commonly performed surgery in the United States. It is estimated that 3.5 million cataract procedures are performed annually in the US. SoCal Eye Ophthalmology in Long Beach are Cataract Specialists and Cataract Surgeons.
Cataracts, often associated with cloudy vision, represents the most common cause of vision loss among people older than 50. This progressive eye condition affects more than 22 million Americans. The good news is that vision impairment as a result of cataracts is reversible. Cataract surgery is now a standard, extremely safe, surgery, with an excellent success rates. Nine out of 10 people who have cataracts surgery regain vision anywhere from 20/20 to 20/40.
Cataracts: Frosty Windows
The Mayo Clinic describes having cataracts as “a bit like looking through a frosty or foggy window.” With age, the normally transparent lens inside the eye becomes cloudy. This cloudiness prevents light from passing into the back of the eye. This results in a blurred, ‘foggy’ image. Cataract formation is a natural result of aging. In fact, cataracts develop slowly over decades and most people do not have any limitation in their vision with the earliest form of cataracts. It is only later on, when the cataracts are denser, that they have an impact on daily tasks such as reading, driving (especially night-time driving) or watching a TV.
Cataracts Detection:
To detect the presence of cataracts, we recommend annual eye exams, especially after age 60. Schedule an Exam with SoCal Eye Today
Common Cataracts Symptoms
Symptoms include:
- Clouded, blurred or dim vision
- Increasing difficulty with vision at night
- Sensitivity to light and glare, and seeing halos
- Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription
- Fading or yellowing of colors
- Double vision in a single eye
The long-term effect of cataracts, untreated, is a progressive decline in vision. However, cataract surgery can restore functional, normal vision and all the happiness it entails.
Treating Cataracts:
In the early stages, cataract-impaired vision can be improved with a simple change in eyeglass prescriptive, magnification or even better lighting. Once the cataracts progress to the point of disrupting daily life, surgery is the next step and fortunately, SoCal employs the latest technology to give you the best vision. Modern cataract surgery performed by our cataract specialists is a 10 minute procedure that is performed on an out-patient basis with light sedation. It involves the removal of the cloudy, natural lens and the implantation of a replacement lens, an intraocular implant (IOL). In 90% of cases 20/20 to 20/40 vision is restored within days. Complete healing time is three weeks.
Cataracts Risks:
Cataracts are mostly a product of aging but certain cataract risk factors create the early onset of the condition. Avoiding them can help slow its progression:
- Ultraviolet radiation (sunlight – wear sunglasses)
- Smoking
- Prolonged use of steroids
- Statin cholesterol medicines
- Obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure
SoCal Eye & Cataracts:
All treatment begins with a Consultation with one of our SoCal Eye Cataracts Specialists. We have two offices to care for you, LAKEWOOD (562) 531-2020 or LOS ALAMITOS (562) 598-7728 or send us an Online Consultation Request. We look forward to meeting you!
