What is a cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens within the eye. The soft protein that comprises your crystalline lens is usually transparent. When it becomes yellow or opaque, you have developed a cataract. The only way to treat a cataract is through the replacement of your natural lens through cataract surgery.
What are the symptoms of a cataract?
Cataracts start out small and may, at first, produce no symptoms at all. As your cataract develops, you may notice symptoms such as blurry vision, glare or halos around lights, difficulties driving at night, or a loss of color intensity. The type of cataract you have will determine your symptoms.
When should I have a cataract removed?
Once a cataract has formed it will continue to progress, but the level of vision disruption varies from person to person. The degree of your vision disruption or any imminent danger to your safety is generally the determining factors in when you should have cataract surgery.
Many local optometrists refer patients to Piedmont Eye Surgical & Laser Center as soon as a cataract is detected. During your cataract surgery evaluation, our eye doctors can help you determine the best time to undergo this procedure.
How is cataract surgery performed?
Cataract surgery is performed in an Out Patient Surgery Center or Hospital by removing your cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial one. To achieve this, the surgeon will make a small incision in your eye through which the cataract can be broken up and removed. Once removed, an artificial lens will be put in place.
More information on this procedure can be found on our what to expect during cataract surgery page.
What are the benefits of artificial lenses?
Piedmont Eye Surgical & Laser Center offers patients premium lens replacement options such as ReSTOR® that are proven safe and effective. In addition to providing a clear lens through which to see, these lenses may also improve other vision problems, restoring your vision to its most optimal state. Artificial lenses are immune to future clouding, making them a permanent solution for eliminating cataracts.
Is cataract surgery safe?
Cataract surgery is the most common surgical procedure performed in the United States and enjoys an extremely low rate of complications. Dr. Bevis and Dr. Stonecipher are board-certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, further helping to reduce your risks.
While surgical risks are rare, there is no guarantee that you will not face some complications. Potential complications with cataract surgery include infection, retinal detachment, glaucoma, and cystoid macular edema. In a study published in the Archives of Ophthalmology, it was found that less than two percent of cataract surgery patients experience any of these complications.
If you live in the Piedmont Triad and have questions about cataract surgery, please call 336-854-4441 to schedule a comprehensive consultation today.