What is a Cataract?

---

	normal vs cloudy lens

A cataract is a clouding or discoloration of the clear lens of the eye that blocks or obscures the passage of light, causing a gradual loss of sight. The amount and pattern of cloudiness within the lens can vary, and you may not know it is present. Cataracts occur as part of the normal aging process and studies show that virtually everyone age 65 has some cataract formation in their eyes. Most age-related cataracts progress gradually over many years. Other cataracts, especially in younger adults and people with diabetes, may progress rapidly. The aging process, family history, diabetes or other medical problems, smoking, trauma to the eye, some medications, and excessive unprotected UV exposure are known causes of cataracts.

Testing & Treatment

---

A thorough eye examination by your ophthalmologist can detect the presence of a cataract, as well as any other eye conditions. Cataract surgery is necessary when your decreased vision interferes with your every day activities. Then, the only treatment is surgical removal of the clouded lens. During cataract surgery, a very small incision is made and a tiny ultrasonic probe is used to break up the cloudy lens and to gently clear it away. To restore vision, a new clear intraocular lens (IOL) is placed in the eye to replace the cloudy lens. Most patients notice an immediate improvement in their vision after surgery. Cataract surgery is performed on an outpatient basis in our Ambulatory Surgical Center located in Greenwood. If both eyes are affected, surgery on each eye is usually performed two to three weeks apart.

In some cases, the lens capsule can turn cloudy months after surgery. This can be treated using the YAG laser, a beam of light that makes an opening in the cloudy lens capsule. This procedure takes just a few minutes and restores clear vision, and you resume normal activity immediately.

IOLs & Lifestyle Lenses

---

The Indiana Eye Clinic offers Lifestyle Enhancing Cataract Care, a way to customize your cataract treatment to suit your visual needs. New options in lens replacement allow you to enjoy life after cataract surgery with greater independence from eyeglasses, bifocals or trifocals. Unlike the standard IOL, the "multifocal" or lifestyle lOL can provide quality focus at all distances. Your ophthalmologist will help you decide which lens will give you the best result.

The experienced surgeons at the Indiana Eye Clinic have improved the vision of thousands of people suffering from cataracts. Please contact us to discuss your options for cataract care.

back to top