Is Cataract Surgery Right for You?

According to the latest assessment by the World Health Organization (WHO), cataract accounts for over 50% of the world’s blindness. A cataract by definition is “a clouding of the lens of the eye which prevents clear vision” typically exacerbated by factors such as old age, diabetes, and ocular trauma. By age 80, more than half of all Americans either have cataracts or have had surgery to remove cataracts.

In this article, we discuss how to determine when cataract surgery is necessary, the process of the surgery, and the benefits of undergoing the procedure. If you are interested in learning more about cataract surgery or are experiencing vision problems, schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist in Tampa at the Florida Eye Center today. 

Related: How Can I Prevent Cataracts?

When Should You Get Cataract Surgery

Currently, there is no medicine consistently proven to prevent or reverse the formation of cataracts. Cataracts can cause a plethora of issues ranging in severity from blurred vision to serious interference with your daily activities. If you are experiencing blurred vision or difficulty engaging in day-to-day activities due to your cataract, it is time to consider cataract treatment in Tampa.

Related: Understanding the Symptoms, Causes, and Risk Factors Associated with Cataracts

The Process of Cataract Surgery

Before the procedure, your doctor will perform an ultrasound test to measure the size and shape of your eye and determine the right type of lens to implant. Cataract treatment in Tampa involves an outpatient procedure, which typically takes around 15 minutes to complete. During the procedure, the clouded lens is removed and the artificial lens is implanted.

There are two main methods for removing cataracts: phacoemulsification and extracapsular cataract extraction. Phacoemulsification involves using an ultrasound probe to emulsify the lens and suction out the fragments. Extracapsular cataract extraction, on the other hand, makes use of a slightly larger incision in the eye to remove the lens in one piece. 

Benefits of Cataract Surgery

After cataract surgery, you can expect your vision to be blurry for a few days as your eye heals and adjusts. Afterwards, the overall quality of your vision should drastically improve. Colors may look brighter because the cataract muted the look of colors with a yellow or brown tint prior to the surgery. Additionally, if you have a high degree of astigmatism, lenses such as toric lenses will neutralize the astigmatism. 

If you are experiencing blurred vision or are unable to see in dim light, you should schedule a dilated eye exam with an ophthalmologist in Tampa at the Florida Eye Center. Your ophthalmologist can assist you in deciding which cataract treatment is right for you. 

To schedule a consultation with an ophthalmologist in Tampa at the Florida Eye Center, please request an appointment today.

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