Cataracts
A cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens inside the eye, which is located directly behind the pupil and iris (the colored part of the eye). Along with the clear front surface of the eye (cornea), the lens focuses light that enters the eye onto the retina, the inner lining of the back of the eye. This is the first step the visual process, much of which takes place not in the eye but in the brain.
Most cataracts are age-related changes in the eye. Having LASIK or other laser vision correction surgery does not prevent cataracts, and there is no evidence that suggests LASIK increases your risk of cataracts.
Cataract formation appears to be associated oxidation of proteins in the lens, which causes the lens to become opaque, reducing its ability to focus light. The underlying cause for these lens changes is unknown, but poor nutrition, excessive UV exposure from sunlight, cigarette smoking and drinking too much alcohol have been shown to be risk factors for cataract development.
The risk for cataracts also increases with age. But cataracts also can occur in young people, especially those with diabetes or a history of prolonged use of steroids or other medications. Also, an injury to the eyes or head can cause what's called a traumatic cataract.
Symptoms of cataracts include blurred vision, glare and halos around lights (especially when driving at night), and color vision disturbances. There is no eye pain or discomfort associated with the presence of cataracts.
A comprehensive eye exam with pupil dilation is the most effective way to determine if you have cataracts. With a wide pupil, your eye doctor can easily examine the lens for cloudiness. If a cataract is present, your eye doctor will tell you about it and advise you whether cataract surgery is needed. In cases of slow-growing cataracts, it may be months or even years before surgery is needed.
Modern cataract eye surgery is a two-step procedure: First, the surgeon uses an ultrasonic device to break up the cloudy lens into small pieces. This process is called phacoemulsification, and it enables the cloudy lens particles to be removed from the eye through a much smaller incision than what was needed for cataract surgery in the past.
After the cataract removal is finished, the surgeon then implants a clear intraocular lens (IOL) in the eye to restore vision.
Measurements are taken prior to surgery to help the surgeon choose the proper IOL power so little or no nearsightedness, farsightedness or astigmatism remains after surgery.
Also, special IOLs called accommodating IOLs and multifocal IOLs are available to correct presbyopia and reduce the need for reading glasses after cataract surgery. Crystalens is a popular accommodating IOL used for this purpose.
It is safe to have cataract surgery after LASIK or other laser vision correction surgery. However, having refractive surgery prior to cataract surgery sometimes makes it more challenging for the cataract surgeon to choose the correct IOL lens power so that you don't need eyeglasses after cataract surgery. If necessary, an additional refractive surgery can be performed after cataract surgery to reduce your need for glasses.
Modern cataract surgery is safe and effective, and most people are very pleased with their vision after surgery. For the best results, choose an experienced cataract surgeon and carefully follow all post-operative instructions to insure a safe and speedy recovery from your cataract operation.
Most premium IOLs used in cataract surgery today block ultraviolet light to protect the sensitive retina from solar radiation, which may play a role in the development of macular degeneration. But you should still wear quality sunglasses that provide 100 percent UV protection after cataract surgery to reduce glare and shield the surface of your eyes and the delicate skin around your eyes against sun damage.