Self-scheduling is currently available for select locations!
Cataracts manifest as a cloudiness of the eye’s natural lens and are located between the front and back areas of the eye, directly behind your pupil. In general, they tend to gradually develop in people over the age of 50—in fact, about 50 percent of America’s population has a cataract by the age of 65.
One of the positive things about cataracts being such a common condition is that there are highly effective ways to treat them.
If you’re trying to find the best solution and have some questions about the cataract surgical procedure, we’re here to help. Here are the most common questions we’d like to answer for you:
Do all Cataracts Need to be Removed?
No. Mild cataracts typically cause zero to few vision issues, and while your doctor will certainly monitor the cataract regularly, they will not recommend surgery unless the cataract is very uncomfortable or has started to dramatically affect your vision.
The good news is that some cataracts may never even reach the stage where they need to be removed. The only time you would need to consider surgery is if it has become a danger to your vision or starts to affect your day-to-day activities.
How Serious is Cataract Surgery?
All surgeries come with some degree of risk. Yet, cataract surgery is actually one of the most common types of surgery performed in the United States! What’s more, most cataract surgeons have done thousands of these procedures, so are extremely qualified to perform these surgeries.
When looking for a good eye surgeon, make sure to look for their certifications and ask about their past experiences. Here, at OCLI, Dr. Silverman has been named one of the best doctors in New York Metro area and is highly skilled as a cataract surgery specialist.
How is the Cataract Actually Removed?
During the procedure, your surgeon will make a small incision in the front surface of the eye with a scalpel or a laser. Then, a circular hole is cut in the front of a thin membrane known as the anterior capsule that encases the eye’s natural lens. Usually, the lens is then split into smaller pieces with a laser or an ultrasonic device so that it can be easier to remove from the eye.
The lens that was removed will be exchanged with a clear implant also known as an intraocular lens (IOL) to bring back full vision. In the majority of cases, the eye will heal quickly after surgery.
Since today cataract surgery can be performed with a computer-controlled laser instead of hand-held instruments, the procedure can be more precise, and the results more accurate.
What are Potential Side Effects of the Surgery?
Just like with any other surgery, pain, infection, swelling, and bleeding are always a possibility, but very few people will experience any surgical complications. In the majority of these cases, complications or side effects from the procedure can be properly managed with medication or a follow-up process.
It is important to reduce the risk of complications by following the post-surgery instructions of your doctor and to immediately report any unusual symptoms.
When it comes to cataract surgery, here at OCLI, we want to give you peace of mind that you’re in good hands. With years of experience and knowledge in cataract surgery, Dr. Silverman will reassure you that you’ve come to the right place. Schedule an appointment with us today.
