CATARACT
About Cataracts
Cataracts are one of the leading causes of blindness in the world, with more than twenty-five million people affected each year. Significant loss of vision, however, is often preventable and even restorable as advances in cataract surgery have allowed for predictable and excellent results. Millions of people undergo this vision-improving procedure every year and emerge with their vision restored.
Here at the Hawaii Eye Institute we are committed to the treatment of cataracts.
What is a cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision. Most cataracts are related to aging. Cataracts are very common in older people and the average age at the time of cataract surgery is around 70 years of age. A cataract can occur in either or both eyes. It cannot spread from one eye to the other.
Cataract Symptoms
- Clouded or blurred vision
- Image colors appear faded
- Glare from headlights, sunlight, or lamps
- Halos around light
- Poor night vision
- Double vision or multiple images in one eye
CATARACT SURGERY
If you are finding that cataracts are starting to interfere with your normal activities and work life, it may be the best time to consider cataract surgery. If cataracts are the only issue, and the overall health of your eye is well, the probability of gaining clearer vision post-cataract surgery is greater than 95%. Our patients are continuously satisfied with the results of their cataract surgery and are pleased with their clear vision.
During the surgery, Dr. Schmidt will perform a microsurgical technique known as “phacoemulsification” where a small incision is made at the edge of the cornea to create an opening in the layer surrounding the clouded lens. A small ultrasonic probe is inserted into the incision, which vibrates and gently breaks the damaged lens into small fragments. Using a small suction instrument, your physician will suction out the destroyed lens so that the new permanent lens (IOL) can be positioned into the eye. Prior to the procedure, you and your physician will discuss which intraocular lens best suits your vision and lifestyles. This lens will be implanted behind the pupil, giving you a clearer vision post-cataract surgery. The procedure does not require stitches due to the small size of the incision and the natural healing abilities of the cornea. Within a few days, your sight should improve and visual quality will become more clear.
