Cataracts are a common age-related condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurry vision, glare, difficulty with night driving, and faded color perception. Patients may also notice a frequent need to update their glasses prescription without significant improvement in clarity. Fortunately, cataract surgery is a safe and effective solution with numerous customizable options to fit each patient’s visual goals.
During cataract surgery, the cloudy lens is replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Today, patients can choose from a variety of IOLs, including monofocal lenses for distance or near vision, multifocal lenses that reduce dependence on glasses, and toric lenses for astigmatism correction. Patients may also utilize the femtosecond laser to assist with portions of the surgery. Selecting the right lens is a collaborative process between the patient and their eye surgeon, taking into account lifestyle needs, eye health, and visual expectations.
An often overlooked—but critical—component of successful cataract surgery is the management of dry eye disease. Dry eye can affect preoperative measurements and postoperative healing. Proactive diagnosis and treatment of dry eye ensures accurate surgical planning and better visual outcomes.
Ultimately, cataract surgery is not a one-size-fits-all procedure. A tailored approach guided by an experienced ophthalmologist can help patients achieve their best possible vision with long-lasting results.