Approximately 24.4 million Americans have cataracts according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. This condition that affects eyesight can be corrected with a surgical procedure that is performed as an outpatient. Learn all about cataract surgery including what to expect and the healing process when you visit Dr. James Ronk and Dr. Julie Soto at Tulsa Eye Associates in Tulsa, OK.
What Are Cataracts?
When the lens of the eye becomes cloudy in appearance rather than the natural clear shade, this condition is called a cataract. It is most common in older people and patients who have other medical conditions, like diabetes. This causes several vision issues including:
- Blurriness.
- Light sensitivity.
- Reading challenges.
- Issues seeing clearly at night or when driving.
- Colors don’t seem as vibrant and look less saturated.
If left untreated, cataracts can result in partial or full blindness. An outpatient surgical procedure is available to reverse the symptoms.
The Cataract Surgery
During cataract surgery, the cloudy eye lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens. It’s a procedure that normally doesn’t require a visit to the hospital and can be done as an outpatient. Cataract surgery is only performed on one eye at a time.
Recovery and Additional Factors To Consider
The healing and recovery process after cataract surgery can take up to two months, at which time you’ll be scheduled for your next appointment. It’s important that you follow the doctor’s strict medical advice after surgery, including wearing a protective eye cover and your glasses as needed, keeping your hands away from your eye, and using prescribed eye drops. It’s also important to manage any other medical conditions you have, avoid tobacco use, and wear sunglasses when in sunny weather. Your doctor will discuss the risks of cataract surgery at the initial exam.
Schedule an Initial Eye Consultation
Before you have cataract surgery you must consult with your eye doctor to see if this is the right choice for you. To have an exam scheduled to discuss cataract surgery with Dr. Ronk or Dr. Soto at Tulsa Eye Associates in Tulsa, OK, call (918) 492-8455.