The eye is a complex structure that resembles the same function as a camera. What you see is a reflection of light that is focused on to the retina at the back of the eye. In addition to the retina, there are other important parts of the eye involved in the clarity of your vision. The lens is a sheath of flexible tissue that facilitates the refraction and focus of light, which forms the image on the eye’s retina. The lens is positioned behind the iris and the cornea. It’s shape changes according to the distance at which the object of focus lies. When you want to observe something up close, the lens becomes rounded. To visualize an object at a distance, the lens stretches.
Over time, proteins may build up on the lens of the eye, forming a cataract. Cataracts get in the way of the transmission of light through the lens, and thus produce cloudy vision and other symptoms. These include:
- Sensitivity to glare
- Blurry vision or cloudiness
- Double vision
- Difficulty seeing well at night
How Cataracts are Treated
Cataracts become concerning when vision is greatly affected. However, it is largely up to the patient when to schedule cataract removal surgery. In the early stages, the prescription for eyeglasses may be changed to support visual acuity. If this change does not achieve the desired improvement, cataract removal is the next step.
Because the cataract has formed on the lens of the eye, its removal requires an appropriate replacement. Early cataract surgeries did not address the need for a new lens. Patients would have to wear “coke bottle” glasses in order to see, and often their acuity was subpar. Today, lens replacement is performed with a suitable IOL, or intraocular lens.
An IOL may be monofocal, to address vision at a singular distance. Patients will continue to rely on corrective eyewear to read or to see objects afar. Mulifocal lenses, as well as accommodating IOLs and Toric lenses each have characteristics that make them appealing to patients who wish to reduce their need to wear eyeglasses or contacts. The success of treatment is affected not only by the selected IOL but also by lifestyle habits, such as smoking, and the general health of the eyes.
Is it time for cataract removal? Visit the Brooklyn office of Dr. Giyaur to discover your options for clearer vision.
