Cataracts

Overview

A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear, natural crystalline lens that sits behind the pupil in your eye. Cataracts develop as part of the normal aging process. In fact, most people over the age of 65 have at least some cataract formation. As the crystalline lens becomes increasingly cloudy, it no longer allows the lens to properly focus light on the back of the eye, resulting in blurry vision.

What Causes Cataracts?

No one understands exactly why the eye's lens changes as we age. Aging is a primary factor, and recent evidence has implicated genetics as playing an important role. People who spend a great deal of time in the sun are at an increased risk of developing cataracts, thought to be due to their exposure to ultraviolet light. Diabetics are also more likely to develop cataracts, and at any earlier age. Other factors include smoking, trauma to the eye, and certain medications such as steroids, diuretics and major tranquilizers. Cataracts are not reversible, nor is there anything that can be done to prevent their formation.

When Should a Cataract be Treated?

In the early stages of cataract development, your vision may be improved by a simple change in eyeglass or contact lens prescription. Better lighting will help with reading. Surgery should be considered when visual difficulties affect your everyday activities and hobbies. Occasionally, a cataract obstructs the view of another eye problem that needs treatment. When this occurs, the cataract should be removed even if symptoms are not significant. But in most cases, there is no reason to have a cataract removed until your own visual requirements demand it; there is no harm to the eye in delaying surgery.

How is a Cataract Removed?

Using modern microsurgical technology, cataracts can be safely and effectively treated. Cataract surgery is not only the most frequently performed surgery in the United States, it is also one of the most consistently successful. Over 90% of people who have cataract surgery regain useful vision, somewhere between 20/20 and 20/40. Most who do not have another underlying eye problem which limits their visual potential.

The most widely used surgical technique is called phacoemulsification. A very small incision is made and a tiny ultrasonic probe is used to break up the cataract and gently suction it away. The clear membrane is left in the eye where an intraocular lens (IOL) is placed. The IOL is necessary to replace the focusing power of the natural lens. This small incision surgery has several benefits. Topical eye drops can be used to provide anesthesia, and makes the use of an eye patch after surgery often unnecessary. The procedure is very quick, usually taking less than 20 minutes. There is also a short recovery time, and the results are almost immediate. Most people notice an improvement in their vision soon after surgery but may still require prescriptive eyewear.