
A cataract is the clouding of the lens inside the eye, causing blurry or hazy vision and sensitivity to glaring light. There has never been a better time to have cataract surgery because of all the vision improvement options available. To our patients throughout the Birmingham area, once you have decided to have cataract surgery you and your doctor will work together to decide what type of artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is right for you.
Until recently, people who had cataract surgery had to settle for either distance or near vision, but not both. Combining laser cataract surgery and the newest artificial lenses, our patients can see BOTH at distance and at near. The new toric lens is used to correct vision in patients’ high levels of astigmatism. A multifocal lens is used to provide better near, far and intermediate vision, thus minimizing or eliminating your need for reading glasses. These specialized lenses are available for an additional fee, usually not covered by your insurance. The monofocal lens, typically covered by insurance, provides distance or near vision, but some patients will need glasses after surgery.
Finding the right lens for your lifestyle – Now with Blade-Free Laser!
How do I know if I have a cataract?
A cataract is the result of a natural change inside your eye making your vision less sharp over time. Usually, cataracts form with age, but can also be caused by trauma, disease and family history. Your eye doctor will check for the presence of cataracts. The examination is important because it demonstrates what effects cataracts may be having on your visual acuity. It’s also possible that the cataract may not warrant medical treatment. Sometimes changing your glasses prescription may help.
Cataracts develop slowly and painlessly and you may not realize your vision is changing. Symptoms of cataracts include the following:
- Blurred vision
- Poor night vision
- Faded color vision
- Double vision
- Sensitivity to light