Have cataracts stolen away your independence? Have pleasures that you used to take for granted, such as reading, watching TV, playing golf, driving your car, or using your computer become difficult or even impossible? Have you reached a point where your eyeglasses or contacts just aren't enough to help counteract the effects that cataracts have had on your vision? If the answer to one or more of those questions is yes, then you will want to consult with our Seattle ophthalmologist to find out if refractive cataract surgery is the right move for you.
Cataracts form as the result of a buildup of protein on the lenses of your eyes. While they can occur at any time in life, to anyone, regardless of heredity, gender, or ethnic background, it is a disease that is most commonly associated with being older. Over half of all cataracts diagnoses are with patients who are at least 65. In the early stages of the disease, prescription lenses from our Seattle ophthalmologist are typically sufficient to correct the impact that cataracts have had on your eyesight. The reality, though, is that eventually cataracts are likely to cross the line to where you simply cannot live your live in the way you want to. It's a progressive disease, and it tends to get worse, not better.
Refractive cataract surgery has two components to it. First, our Seattle ophthalmologist will remove your natural eye lenses, and along with them the cataracts that have led to your eyesight becoming clouded and foggy. But while your vision will be unhindered, you need your lenses to focus properly, so that everything does not look blurry. So, the second step is to put in intraocular implants, artificial lenses that take the place of your body's natural ones. You'll be able to resume all of the activities that you previously couldn't engage in, and enjoy sharper vision once again, without having to rely on eyeglasses or contact lenses to do it. It's a highly successful procedure, and one which eliminates the obstacles that cataracts have created for you. Call us today and schedule and appointment. There is no reason to let cataracts rule your life.
By Dr. Sheldon J. Cowen
November 18, 2015