Cataract Surgery

Cataracts Q & A

What are cataracts?

Cataracts refer to the clouding of your normally clear lens, which affects your vision. It’s a common eye condition often associated with aging. 

Around age 40, the proteins in your eye break down and clump together, creating a hazy area over your lens. Initially, you may not notice the cloudy area in your eye lens, but as your cataract grows, it affects your vision.

Though aging is the most common risk factor for developing cataracts, you may also be at risk if you have glaucoma or a history of an eye injury. A family history of cataracts, diabetes, smoking, and spending too much time in the sun may also increase your risk of developing cataracts. 
 

What are cataract symptoms?

When your cataracts are small, you may not experience any symptoms. But as the clouding grows, your cataract may cause:

• Blurry vision

• Fading of bright colors

• Poor night vision

• Sensitivity to bright lights

• Double vision

• The appearance of halos around lights

• Increase in frequency of eyeglass prescription change

Dr. Kirschen may diagnose cataracts during your eye exam and refer you to an eye surgeon that can provide cataract surgery when needed. 

How are cataracts treated?

Ultimately, cataracts require surgery. However, surgery may not be needed initially. You may be able to improve your vision changes with prescription eyeglasses. But when your cataracts interfere with your daily activities, such as driving, reading, or watching TV, even with your prescription eyeglasses, then surgery is recommended.

During cataract surgery, your eye surgeon removes your cloudy lens and replaces it with a new clear intraocular lens. 
 

What can I expect after my cataract surgery?

At Customized Vision Care, Dr. Kirschen provides co-management services with your eye surgeon following your cataract surgery. The frequency of your appointments with Dr. Kirschen depends on your specific needs. 

Typically, you follow up with your surgeon the day after your surgery and then the following week. If you’re healing as expected, your next follow-up appointment is scheduled with Dr. Kirschen  3-4 weeks after your surgery, then 6-8 weeks, and finally at six months post-op. 

Once you’ve completed your cataract surgery follow-ups, Dr. Kirschen determines if prescription eyewear is needed. He then schedules regular follow-ups to monitor your eye health and vision needs.

To schedule your post-cataract surgery appointment with the optometry expert at Customized Vision Care, contact the office by phone or online today.