Cataracts are a problem that affects most people at some point in their lives. They occur when proteins inside the lens of your eye begin to break down and clump together.
Eventually, these clumps become so large that they impair your eyesight. You can live with cataracts for some time, but a point will come when you need to get them removed.
Keep reading to learn why you should get your cataracts removed.
They Only Get Worse
Cataracts not only don’t go away on their own, they steadily worsen over time. As the proteins clump together, they become more prominent and cloudier until you can no longer see.
This process can take a long time. Most surgeons will wait to perform cataract surgery until they negatively affect your vision, even if your eye doctor diagnoses you with cataracts early in their early stages.
Your eye doctor will monitor the development of your cataracts and tell you when it is time to remove them. Being able to watch the growth of your cataracts is one reason why regular eye exams are essential.
Removal is Incredibly Effective
Cataract surgery is the most common medical procedure performed in the country. Because it is so common, it has a high success rate and effectively restores eyesight.
The goal of cataract surgery is not to separate the cataract from the lens of the eye. Instead, it replaces the entire natural lens with an artificial one called an intraocular lens, or IOL.
Your cataract surgeon does this by first creating an opening in your cornea. This opening allows them to break your lens apart carefully.
Then they can easily remove the pieces of your natural lens. After that, they put the IOL in the natural lenses place and close the opening in the cornea.
This IOL should immediately restore your vision. However, it may take some time for your eye to adjust to the new lens fully.
Your Vision Could Turn Out Better Than Ever
IOLs come in a wide-ranging variety, from standard monofocal lenses to premium options that can enhance your eyesight. Some IOLs can make your vision even better than it was before your cataracts began forming.
Basic monofocal IOLs provide functional sight at either near or far distance. This single-function means you will need glasses to provide clear vision at the distance the IOL does not correct.
Some premium IOLs can provide clear vision at near distance, far distance, and everything between. Others may only be able to correct your vision at two distances. Whatever your post-surgery vision goals are, there is an IOL that can give you what you’re looking for!
Most insurance plans and Medicare cover the cost of basic monofocal IOLs. Usually, you have to cover the cost of premium IOLs out of pocket.
Your eye doctor will help you select the best IOL for you before the day of your cataract surgery. You should factor in your finances and also consider the quality of life you want after the surgery.
If you want to end your need for glasses forever, then a premium IOL may be the best fit. If you don’t mind using glasses for specific tasks like driving or reading, a monofocal IOL may be suitable.
Do you think it’s time to get rid of your cataracts? Schedule an appointment at Stahl Eyecare Experts in Hauppauge, NY, to discuss cataract surgery and the best IOL for you!
