Cataracts are a common eye condition that affects millions of people around the world. It is caused by the clouding of the lens of the eye, which can lead to vision problems and even blindness. Fortunately, cataract surgery is a safe and effective way to treat this condition and restore vision. In this article, we'll discuss the three types of cataract surgery and what you need to know before undergoing the procedure.
The most common type of cataract surgery is phacoemulsification, also known as small-incision cataract surgery. During this procedure, the cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). There are three main types of IOLs used in cataract surgery: monofocal lenses, toric lenses, and multifocal lenses.
Monofocal lenses are designed to provide visual assistance at a single focal point that usually covers a certain distance. While this type of IOL can correct a vision problem, you may still need to wear distance glasses to improve your distance vision, and you'll need to use reading glasses 100% of the time for all near vision tasks.
Toric lenses are designed to correct myopia with astigmatism or hyperopia with astigmatism. While selecting a toric lens could improve any distance vision problem related to astigmatism, a patient with this type of intraocular lens implant will still need to wear glasses for close reading, such as reading, writing and performing computer tasks.
Multifocal lenses are designed to provide clear vision at multiple distances. This type of IOL can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses after cataract surgery. However, it is important to note that multifocal lenses may not be suitable for everyone and may not provide the same level of vision correction as monofocal or toric lenses.
It's important to talk to your doctor about all of your options before deciding which type of IOL is right for you. Your doctor will also discuss any potential risks or complications associated with cataract surgery. In general, it's best to wait for cataracts to affect your quality of life long enough that other measures, such as reading glasses and adjusting lighting conditions as needed, can't compensate for symptoms caused by cataracts sufficiently to lead a comfortable life.
In most cases, health insurance, including Medicare, covers the cost of cataract surgery as long as the deterioration caused by the cataract interferes with daily life. Cataract surgery will not restore vision lost due to other eye conditions, such as macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy. Fortunately, with Precision Vision surgery, you can remove cataracts and restore your vision in no time.
Cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest surgical procedures performed in the U.S., so if you have been diagnosed with cataracts it is important to talk to your doctor about your options. With the right treatment plan and IOL selection, you can restore your vision and enjoy clear sight again.
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