Cataract FAQs

How common are cataracts?

Cataracts are extremely common, especially as people age. In fact, cataracts are the leading cause of vision impairment worldwide. In the United States, cataracts affect more than 24 million people aged 40 and older. Cataracts are the most common cause of vision loss in people over age 60. By the age of 75, approximately half of all Americans have cataracts. The prevalence increases with age, and by age 80, more than half of Americans either have a cataract or have had cataract surgery.

What is the function of the lens in the eye?

The main function of the eye’s lens is to ensure that light can pass through, in order to focus on the retina at the back of the eye. The lens is also responsible for adjusting the eye’s focus, to enable clear vision at all distances.

What are cataracts?

A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s transparent lens, that results in blurry vision and vison loss. The lens, which is mostly made of water and protein, is normally clear, helps to focus light onto the retina at the back of the eye. When a cataract forms, the light is scattered or blocked, resulting in blurred or impaired vision. Looking through a cataract like looking through a dirty window.

What causes cataracts?

Cataracts are primarily caused by aging. As people age, the proteins in the lens begin to break down and clump together, forming cloudy areas. Other contributing factors include:

• Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) light
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Eye injuries
• Certain medications, such as corticosteroids
• Family history of cataracts

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

Common symptoms of cataracts include:

• Blurred or cloudy vision
• Difficulty seeing at night or in low light
• Sensitivity to light and glare
• Halos around lights
• Colors appear less vibrant
• Double vision in one eye
• Frequent changes in prescription glasses or contact lenses

How are cataracts diagnosed?

Cataracts are diagnosed through a comprehensive eye examination. An ophthalmologist or optometrist will perform various tests, including:

• Visual acuity test measures how well you see at various distances and determines the extent at which a cataract may be interfering with vision.
• Refraction determines if your vision has changed.
• Evaluation of the lens using high magnification and illumination can identify the location and extent of your cataracts.
• Evaluation of the retinas is done through a dilated pupil.
• Color vision testing may be needed.
• Glare testing may be performed as well.

How are cataracts treated?

When a cataracts seriously interferes with your vision, your Union Square Eye Care practitioner will recommend cataract surgery. The only effective treatment is surgical removal of the cloudy lens. During cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).

This surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis and has a high success rate with minimal complications. For patients that require cataract surgery in both eyes, it is important to note that only one eye is operated on at a time. For patients who are not ready for surgery, stronger eyeglasses, magnifying lenses, or anti-glare sunglasses may help temporarily improve vision.

Is cataract surgery safe?

Yes, it is one of the safest and most effective surgical procedures.

Will I need to wear glasses after cataract surgery?

Before surgery, your eye doctor will have calculated a precise measurement of your refractive error and choose the correct lens power for your needs. Frequently, the lens will provide 20/20 vision without the need for glasses or contact lenses.

Your Union Square Eye Care provider will discuss your goals and explain the various intraocular lens options available. to you. Monovision is for distance only which means you will need glasses for reading and near vision activities. There are special lenses to treat astigmatism, etc.

When should cataract surgery be considered?

Cataract surgery should be considered when cataracts interfere with daily activities such as reading, driving, or watching television. The decision to have surgery is typically based on the degree of vision impairment and the impact on the patient’s quality of life.

What is the recovery process like after cataract surgery?

Recovery from cataract surgery is generally quick. Most people can resume normal activities within a few days. However, it is important to follow the doctor’s post-operative instructions, which may include using prescribed eye drops to prevent infection, avoiding strenuous activities, and protecting the eyes from dust or potential injury.

Are there any risks associated with cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most commonly performed surgeries. However, as with any surgery, there are risks involved, including:

• Infection
• Bleeding
• Swelling
• Retinal detachment
• Secondary cataract (clouding of the lens capsule that may occur after surgery)

These complications are rare, and most can be effectively managed with prompt medical treatment.

Can cataracts be prevented?

While there is no sure way to prevent cataracts, certain measures can help reduce the risk or delay their onset:

• Wearing sunglasses that block UV rays
• Quitting smoking
• Managing underlying health conditions, such as diabetes
• Eating a diet rich in antioxidants (e.g., vitamins C and E)
• Regular eye examinations to monitor eye health

If you are having vision difficulties it essential to call us to schedule an exam to diagnose your problem. Union Square Eye Care has two offices, one in Union Square and the other in Harlem for your convenience. We treat patients from Greenwich Village, Soho, and Midtown Manhattan, focusing on preserving vision and improving your quality of life through tailored treatment plans. Call us today to schedule an exam today with one of our esteemed eye experts.