CATARACT SURGERY

The eye contains a natural lens that operates much like a camera lens, bending light to focus images onto the back of the eye, known as the retina. A cataract is the clouding of this lens and is the most common eye condition worldwide, affecting nearly everyone at some point in their lives. This clouding can result in a vision experience similar to looking through a dirty, foggy, or dusty window, causing images to appear blurry or yellowish and reducing color vibrancy and contrast sensitivity.
 

Patients typically report deteriorating night vision, often requiring additional light for reading and other tasks. Increased sensitivity to light may also develop, particularly noticeable when driving at night with oncoming headlights. Additionally, some individuals may experience double vision or see “halos” around lights.

Cataracts are primarily a slow, progressive, age-related condition that typically begins after the age of 40. As we age, the lens of the eye naturally becomes less flexible, thicker, and harder. The proteins within the lens gradually break down and clump together, leading to increasing cloudiness over time. As a result, most individuals over 60 will exhibit some degree of lens clouding, although many may not experience significant vision problems until much later.

However, cataracts can also develop earlier in life, particularly in individuals who were born prematurely or those with specific underlying medical conditions or genetic disorders. Below are some risk factors that may contribute to an earlier onset of cataracts:

• History of eye trauma, injury, inflammation, or surgery

• Family history of cataracts

• Medical conditions such as diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, muscular dystrophy, galactosemia, neurofibromatosis type 2, or rubella

• Previous radiation treatments to the eyes, face, or upper body

• Frequent and intense sun exposure without wearing UVA-blocking sunglasses

• Sunbathing without appropriate eye protection

• Use of certain medications, including corticosteroids

• Excessive alcohol consumption

• Smoking

While no studies have conclusively demonstrated methods to prevent or slow the progression of cataracts, the good news is that cataract surgery is recognized as a highly safe and pain-free procedure. Most uncomplicated cataract surgeries take just 15 minutes per eye, making it the most commonly performed surgical procedure globally.
 

During the surgery, patients receive intravenous sedation, and the natural lens is carefully removed and replaced with an artificial lens customized to their specific prescription needs.

At Salvanos Eye Clinic, every first-time patient and those looking to assess their candidacy for eye correction surgery undergo a thorough 50-minute examination. We are dedicated to building enduring relationships grounded in trust and medical integrity with all our patients.
 

Patients are able to return home immediately after the procedure and typically notice significant improvements in their vision on the same day. Should any complications arise during surgery, you can have peace of mind knowing you are in the hands of a skilled professional. Dr. Salvanos has extensive experience in managing complex cataract cases and is adept at performing simultaneous surgeries for conditions such as retinal detachment or glaucoma when necessary.