Question: I have rheumatoid arthritis and vitreous detachment in both eyes as well as glaucoma. Percentage wise, what are the number of individuals that suffer from a corneal melt that have rheumatoid arthritis?
Answer: Clinically, "corneal melts" or peripheral marginal melts are a relatively rare occurrence and are usually associated with an aggressive form of rheumatoid arthritis that involves more than joints and usually includes a systemic vasculitis. Oral or IV immunomodulating drugs that help control the person's inflammation systemically usually keeps the cornea from a breakdown. Many of the same drugs can be compounded in eye drop form for treatment if the cornea does become involved so that perforation is extremely rare. The incidence of a corneal melt in patients with Rheumatoid Arthritis undergoing Cataract Surgery is extremely rare and has been reported to be .01%.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Cataracts, Cataract Surgery & Lens Implant (IOL) facts & information on how to find trusted Cataract Surgeons who are the Best Cataract Surgeon- review costs, risks, complications, side effects, cataract surgery recovery.
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Wednesday, June 29, 2011
Laser after Cataract Operation
Question: I had cataract surgery one year ago in May. My cataract surgeon told me on my last visit that the lens in one eye is cloudy. He said this happens and he would zap it with a laser. I can just notice a slight difference in my vision compared to right after surgery. Should I wait until it gets worse?
I only have good eyesight in the one eye. Can things go wrong with this procedure?
Answer: It sounds like you are describing the condition known as posterior capsule opacification or PCO. The crystalline lens of the eye is where a cataract forms. The crystalline lens has a soft protein center and is surrounded by a “capsule”. A cataract forms because the protein becomes cloudy. During cataract surgery microscopic instruments are used to break up and remove the cloudy material as this is what blurs your vision. However, the “capsule” is left in place and is where the surgeon places the intraocular lens implant (IOL). In some patients the capsule become “opacified” sometime after surgery leaving the patient’s vision cloudy and often with glare sensitivity, much like the symptoms they had from the cataract. Fortunately, using a YAG Laser it is possible to quickly, safely and effectively create an opening in the capsule along the visual axis that restores the vision almost instantly. This procedure called a “YAG Capsulotomy” takes only a few minutes using simple eye drop anesthesia without discomfort.
Generally speaking, the decision to perform a YAG Capsulotomy is prompted by patient symptoms, however this is not always the case as the surgeon may wish to do the laser procedure for other reasons. YAG Laser Capsulotomy is performed external to the eye through the pupil and although it is a surgical procedure it is not invasive, greatly reducing any risk. Still it is surgery and there is always a small risk of complications. That said, the risks and complications of YAG Capsulotomy are extremely rare and your surgeon would likely not suggest it if the risk to benefit ratio was not well in your favor.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
I only have good eyesight in the one eye. Can things go wrong with this procedure?
Answer: It sounds like you are describing the condition known as posterior capsule opacification or PCO. The crystalline lens of the eye is where a cataract forms. The crystalline lens has a soft protein center and is surrounded by a “capsule”. A cataract forms because the protein becomes cloudy. During cataract surgery microscopic instruments are used to break up and remove the cloudy material as this is what blurs your vision. However, the “capsule” is left in place and is where the surgeon places the intraocular lens implant (IOL). In some patients the capsule become “opacified” sometime after surgery leaving the patient’s vision cloudy and often with glare sensitivity, much like the symptoms they had from the cataract. Fortunately, using a YAG Laser it is possible to quickly, safely and effectively create an opening in the capsule along the visual axis that restores the vision almost instantly. This procedure called a “YAG Capsulotomy” takes only a few minutes using simple eye drop anesthesia without discomfort.
Generally speaking, the decision to perform a YAG Capsulotomy is prompted by patient symptoms, however this is not always the case as the surgeon may wish to do the laser procedure for other reasons. YAG Laser Capsulotomy is performed external to the eye through the pupil and although it is a surgical procedure it is not invasive, greatly reducing any risk. Still it is surgery and there is always a small risk of complications. That said, the risks and complications of YAG Capsulotomy are extremely rare and your surgeon would likely not suggest it if the risk to benefit ratio was not well in your favor.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Tuesday, June 21, 2011
Cataract Surgery Recovery & Travel
Question: I had cataract surgery in March this year. It was very successful. No complications. My question is how soon after surgery will I be able to travel overseas?
Answer: As your Cataract Surgery was uneventful, and provided there are no specific instructions restricting air travel from your Cataract Surgeon, there is no reason you cannot travel anywhere you wish by air at this time. In general modern Cataract Surgery and Lens Implantation are quite "patient friendly" and barring any unusual complications there are few if any restrictions after the first few weeks. Of course, it is important to avoid heavy lifting in any event and perhaps avoid submerging your facial area in any water source that might be less than optimal in terms of sanitation if you are traveling to remote or underdeveloped areas.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery or Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: As your Cataract Surgery was uneventful, and provided there are no specific instructions restricting air travel from your Cataract Surgeon, there is no reason you cannot travel anywhere you wish by air at this time. In general modern Cataract Surgery and Lens Implantation are quite "patient friendly" and barring any unusual complications there are few if any restrictions after the first few weeks. Of course, it is important to avoid heavy lifting in any event and perhaps avoid submerging your facial area in any water source that might be less than optimal in terms of sanitation if you are traveling to remote or underdeveloped areas.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery or Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Choosing a Lens Implant
Question: I have a cataract in one eye and I am considering which type of lens implant to choose. Before the cataract developed my vision required that I wear glasses for distance vision and I do not have a need for astigmatism correction. The cataract drastically changed the vision in my eye before it became too impaired to see, so that my near vision was 20/20 uncorrected. I am starting to have problems reading with my glasses and choose not to use them for up close reading as I am getting older-I am 45. Am I a good candidate for multifocal lenses? If I choose a single focus, would the best focus be at/near my most recent vision or matching my other eye?
Answer: Choosing a Lens Implant really depends on the types of activities you wish to be able to have clarity for after Cataract Surgery without being dependent or even possibly requiring glasses. If you choose a monofocal IOL you will have some distances that you will have to wear glasses for-either far or near-at your choice and based on discussion with your Cataract Surgeon. In order to be "glasses free" for the vast majority of activities after Cataract Surgery as you were prior to the formation of the Cataract, you would be best served by selecting a multifocal lens implant. However, you need to know that having a multifocal IOL in only one eye does not allow you to achieve the best possible results and if you are in need of myopic or nearsighted correction for the other eye this will still require eyeglasses. In discussion with your Cataract Surgeon you should determine whether there is the beginning of a Cataract in the other eye and if not would he or she recommend a Clear Lens Extraction and implantation of a multifocal in the other eye as well.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Choosing a Lens Implant really depends on the types of activities you wish to be able to have clarity for after Cataract Surgery without being dependent or even possibly requiring glasses. If you choose a monofocal IOL you will have some distances that you will have to wear glasses for-either far or near-at your choice and based on discussion with your Cataract Surgeon. In order to be "glasses free" for the vast majority of activities after Cataract Surgery as you were prior to the formation of the Cataract, you would be best served by selecting a multifocal lens implant. However, you need to know that having a multifocal IOL in only one eye does not allow you to achieve the best possible results and if you are in need of myopic or nearsighted correction for the other eye this will still require eyeglasses. In discussion with your Cataract Surgeon you should determine whether there is the beginning of a Cataract in the other eye and if not would he or she recommend a Clear Lens Extraction and implantation of a multifocal in the other eye as well.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Cataract Surgery after Stroke?
Question: My dad needs cataract surgery but had a stroke last year and is partially paralyzed. Is he a candidate for cataract surgery?
Answer: Having a stroke does not preclude one from having successful and beneficial Cataract Surgery, even with partial paralysis, but it does require some careful consideration. If the stroke was limited to areas of the brain that caused solely motor paralysis there is usually no problem whatsoever as long as your dad has generally stable health otherwise. If there has also been damage to sensory areas of the brain-specifically the visual cortex-and there is a visual field defect, it should be determined whether the area of the brain responsible for central vision perception from the macula of the retina is intact. If it is not intact, Cataract Surgery may not restore the level of vision to a satisfactory level and may lead to unmet expectations. A consultation with a top Cataract Surgeon in concert with your dad's neurologist should be able to determine this prior to making a recommendation for surgery.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Having a stroke does not preclude one from having successful and beneficial Cataract Surgery, even with partial paralysis, but it does require some careful consideration. If the stroke was limited to areas of the brain that caused solely motor paralysis there is usually no problem whatsoever as long as your dad has generally stable health otherwise. If there has also been damage to sensory areas of the brain-specifically the visual cortex-and there is a visual field defect, it should be determined whether the area of the brain responsible for central vision perception from the macula of the retina is intact. If it is not intact, Cataract Surgery may not restore the level of vision to a satisfactory level and may lead to unmet expectations. A consultation with a top Cataract Surgeon in concert with your dad's neurologist should be able to determine this prior to making a recommendation for surgery.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Monday, June 20, 2011
Crystalens® Lens Implants & Glasses
Question: What percentage of patients need to wear glasses after Crystalens® Lens Implants and why do they?
Answer: The need for eyeglasses with Crystalens® Lens Implants for lens replacement after Cataract Surgery or Clear Lens Extraction very much depends on the specific vision and lifestyle requirements and the accompanying patient selection criteria used by the Cataract Surgeon. Looking at FDA study data or associated manufacturers claims regarding the need for eyeglasses after Crystalens® can be a bit misleading and here is why. Each patient has an individual set of daily activities that are important to them in terms of being “glasses free” after Cataract Surgery. For an accountant, their visual world might be oriented around close near tasks for 75% of their daily activities. For a long haul trucker, their visual world might be oriented around needing clear distance vision for 75% of their daily activities. And-for a school teacher their visual world might be oriented around wanting “glasses free” vision equally for far, near and arm’s length. These are three very different sets of visual requirements and thus drive three different sets of expectations and “success” criteria. Thus, Crystalens® for the accountant might require glasses for close work all the time. Crystalens® for the trucker might require the use of eyeglasses only for reading paperwork-10% of the time and Crystalens® Lens Implants for the teacher may require eyeglasses for the time they are engaged in close work.
What you need to know is the near vision presbyopia correcting lens implants such as the Crystalens® Accommodating Lens Implant, the AcrySof®ReSTOR® Multifocal Lens Implant and the Tecnis® Multifocal Lens implant each have optical design characteristics that provide “sweet spots” of clear vision without eyeglasses. That is, one design might provide the best clarity for far and intermediate distances, another might provide the best clarity for near and far and only marginal intermediate vision and another might provide the best clarity for close and intermediate vision. Each lens design has a slight compromise and must be carefully selected and matched to the individual patient needs and their priority of ranges for clear vision. Near vision presbyopia correcting lens implants are not amenable to a “one type fits all approach”. There is considerable misunderstanding by patients that they can “shop” for a “brand” of lens implant by looking at manufacturers representations and advertising. The best results and highest levels of patient satisfaction are achieved when your Cataract Surgeon and their staff thoroughly discuss your personal vision requirements in terms of what activities you wish to be “glasses free” for and then help you set realistic expectations around a proper choice of Lens Implant.
So the answer to the question “What percentage of patients need to wear glasses after Crystalens® Lens Implants and why do they?” is not at all a simple one. It really depends on whether there was careful patient selection. In general however, 20-50% of Crystalens® patients who do a great deal of reading or close work should probably expect to wear eyeglasses for near vision during extended periods of close activities.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: The need for eyeglasses with Crystalens® Lens Implants for lens replacement after Cataract Surgery or Clear Lens Extraction very much depends on the specific vision and lifestyle requirements and the accompanying patient selection criteria used by the Cataract Surgeon. Looking at FDA study data or associated manufacturers claims regarding the need for eyeglasses after Crystalens® can be a bit misleading and here is why. Each patient has an individual set of daily activities that are important to them in terms of being “glasses free” after Cataract Surgery. For an accountant, their visual world might be oriented around close near tasks for 75% of their daily activities. For a long haul trucker, their visual world might be oriented around needing clear distance vision for 75% of their daily activities. And-for a school teacher their visual world might be oriented around wanting “glasses free” vision equally for far, near and arm’s length. These are three very different sets of visual requirements and thus drive three different sets of expectations and “success” criteria. Thus, Crystalens® for the accountant might require glasses for close work all the time. Crystalens® for the trucker might require the use of eyeglasses only for reading paperwork-10% of the time and Crystalens® Lens Implants for the teacher may require eyeglasses for the time they are engaged in close work.
What you need to know is the near vision presbyopia correcting lens implants such as the Crystalens® Accommodating Lens Implant, the AcrySof®ReSTOR® Multifocal Lens Implant and the Tecnis® Multifocal Lens implant each have optical design characteristics that provide “sweet spots” of clear vision without eyeglasses. That is, one design might provide the best clarity for far and intermediate distances, another might provide the best clarity for near and far and only marginal intermediate vision and another might provide the best clarity for close and intermediate vision. Each lens design has a slight compromise and must be carefully selected and matched to the individual patient needs and their priority of ranges for clear vision. Near vision presbyopia correcting lens implants are not amenable to a “one type fits all approach”. There is considerable misunderstanding by patients that they can “shop” for a “brand” of lens implant by looking at manufacturers representations and advertising. The best results and highest levels of patient satisfaction are achieved when your Cataract Surgeon and their staff thoroughly discuss your personal vision requirements in terms of what activities you wish to be “glasses free” for and then help you set realistic expectations around a proper choice of Lens Implant.
So the answer to the question “What percentage of patients need to wear glasses after Crystalens® Lens Implants and why do they?” is not at all a simple one. It really depends on whether there was careful patient selection. In general however, 20-50% of Crystalens® patients who do a great deal of reading or close work should probably expect to wear eyeglasses for near vision during extended periods of close activities.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Friday, June 17, 2011
Cataract and Visual Field Defect
Question: I have a homonymous visual field defect as a result of a cerebrovascular (CVA) accident three months ago. Will this affect my ability to have and to benefit from cataract surgery on my right eye?
Answer: Cataract Surgery after a stroke or cerebrovascular accident (CVA) can be beneficial under certain circumstances-but in NO way will the removal of a Cataract reverse or improve the visual field defect. If the homonymous visual field defect is with "macular sparing" and you have reduced vision or other symptoms related to the formation of a Cataract, then it will be beneficial to have Cataract Surgery. If, the CVA caused any compromise of the nerve fibers or visual cortex that is responsible for central vision from the macula, then the likelihood of much improvement in central vision will be questionable after the Cataract is removed. Thus, in order to determine what you might expect it is important to have repeat visual field testing with specific protocols to determine relative or partial compromise of the macular functioning. It may be obvious or it may be difficult to determine depending on the type, density and location of the Cataract as these factors can adversely impact the ability to get an accurate visual field test. The CVA in and of itself should not limit your ability to have Cataract Surgery if you are otherwise in reasonable health.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Cataract Surgery after a stroke or cerebrovascular accident (CVA) can be beneficial under certain circumstances-but in NO way will the removal of a Cataract reverse or improve the visual field defect. If the homonymous visual field defect is with "macular sparing" and you have reduced vision or other symptoms related to the formation of a Cataract, then it will be beneficial to have Cataract Surgery. If, the CVA caused any compromise of the nerve fibers or visual cortex that is responsible for central vision from the macula, then the likelihood of much improvement in central vision will be questionable after the Cataract is removed. Thus, in order to determine what you might expect it is important to have repeat visual field testing with specific protocols to determine relative or partial compromise of the macular functioning. It may be obvious or it may be difficult to determine depending on the type, density and location of the Cataract as these factors can adversely impact the ability to get an accurate visual field test. The CVA in and of itself should not limit your ability to have Cataract Surgery if you are otherwise in reasonable health.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Tuesday, June 14, 2011
Lens Implant after Contact Lens Wear
Question: For 15 years I have worn a single +4.00 D contact lens for reading with no problems. I now have a cataract in this eye and my ophthalmologist sent me for biometry prior to surgery. It was discovered I have quite severe astigmatism (which has never been a problem to me) and there is now a problem deciding whether to have a toric lens implant or a regular lens implant. I do not want to wear glasses to read and my other eye is fine for driving and distance. Any advice enormously appreciated.
Answer: You do not say whether you are wearing a soft or a rigid contact lens. If you have been wearing a rigid contact lens, it is highly probable that after 15 years of wearing a thick +4.00 D contact lens, you would not know that you had astigmatism, as the rigid lens would correct it.
However, if you have been wearing a contact lens for that long, it is also possible that the contact lens has changed the shape of your cornea and induced astigmatism that was not present before-and thus it may very well be transient. That is, you will need to discontinue the contact lens for some period of time until the cornea returns to a more normal and stable shape. With rigid lens wear, it can takes weeks or even several months, to achieve stability. The corneal molding effect can even happen with soft contact lenses. Thus, the key step here is discontinuing your contact lens and to have the ophthalmologist perform serial corneal curvature measurements, serial corneal topography measurements and serial refractions over a period of weeks or longer, until you have demonstrated stability of these parameters, so that an accurate set of measurements can be taken for the calculation of lens implant type and power.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: You do not say whether you are wearing a soft or a rigid contact lens. If you have been wearing a rigid contact lens, it is highly probable that after 15 years of wearing a thick +4.00 D contact lens, you would not know that you had astigmatism, as the rigid lens would correct it.
However, if you have been wearing a contact lens for that long, it is also possible that the contact lens has changed the shape of your cornea and induced astigmatism that was not present before-and thus it may very well be transient. That is, you will need to discontinue the contact lens for some period of time until the cornea returns to a more normal and stable shape. With rigid lens wear, it can takes weeks or even several months, to achieve stability. The corneal molding effect can even happen with soft contact lenses. Thus, the key step here is discontinuing your contact lens and to have the ophthalmologist perform serial corneal curvature measurements, serial corneal topography measurements and serial refractions over a period of weeks or longer, until you have demonstrated stability of these parameters, so that an accurate set of measurements can be taken for the calculation of lens implant type and power.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Lens Implant Color Problems
Question: I noticed in my eye that had cataract surgery and a lens implant I can not see some purple lights that I can see with my non-operative eye. Is it well known that the IOL filters some wavelengths of light that are normally visible? Or is something else potentially going on?
Answer: Color perception distortions and problems have been reported with certain types of Lens Implants. While this is anecdotal, UV absorbing or "blue blocking" Lens Implants (IOL) do sometimes cause patients to experience a color perception shift when they are in one eye only. The UV blocking feature is potentially useful to have however in that it offers protection for wavelengths that are cause damage to the Retina-especially the Macula-and are thus thought to be protective against Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) in Cataract Surgery patients.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Color perception distortions and problems have been reported with certain types of Lens Implants. While this is anecdotal, UV absorbing or "blue blocking" Lens Implants (IOL) do sometimes cause patients to experience a color perception shift when they are in one eye only. The UV blocking feature is potentially useful to have however in that it offers protection for wavelengths that are cause damage to the Retina-especially the Macula-and are thus thought to be protective against Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) in Cataract Surgery patients.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Late Cataract Surgery Complications
Question: My husband is still having complications from bilateral cataract surgery from 2 years ago including redness, swelling, blurred vision, pain and light sensitivity. At each cataract surgeon visit he is given more or different eye drops. Shouldn't this be cleared by now. He is not a diabetic.
Answer: Late or long term complications of Cataract Surgery are really not that common and typically do not include the types of symptoms that you describe. While it is possible that the redness, swelling, blurred vision, pain and light sensitivity you describe are in fact related to the Cataract operation itself, it is entirely possible that they are also due to some secondary form of ocular surface disease such as dry eye or tear film dysfunction, some external eyelid problem such as chronic blepharitis, some other ocular inflammatory disease or even systemic inflammatory disease. It is unusual to have these kinds of symptoms for 2 years after Cataract Surgery and your Cataract Surgeon should be able to tell you what the specific problem is, its treatment path and prognosis. Otherwise you may wish to consider scheduling a consultation for a second opinion with a top Cataract Surgeon in your area in order to get a better understanding of the situation.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Late or long term complications of Cataract Surgery are really not that common and typically do not include the types of symptoms that you describe. While it is possible that the redness, swelling, blurred vision, pain and light sensitivity you describe are in fact related to the Cataract operation itself, it is entirely possible that they are also due to some secondary form of ocular surface disease such as dry eye or tear film dysfunction, some external eyelid problem such as chronic blepharitis, some other ocular inflammatory disease or even systemic inflammatory disease. It is unusual to have these kinds of symptoms for 2 years after Cataract Surgery and your Cataract Surgeon should be able to tell you what the specific problem is, its treatment path and prognosis. Otherwise you may wish to consider scheduling a consultation for a second opinion with a top Cataract Surgeon in your area in order to get a better understanding of the situation.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Cataract Risk and Celiac Disease
Celiac disease is a condition that damages the lining of the small intestine and prevents it from absorbing parts of food that are important for staying healthy. The damage is due to a reaction to eating gluten, which is found in wheat, barley, rye, and possibly oats. The exact cause of celiac disease is unknown. The lining of the intestines contains areas called villi, which help absorb nutrients. When people with celiac disease eat foods or use products that contain gluten, their immune system reacts by damaging these villi. This damage affects the ability to absorb nutrients properly. A person becomes malnourished, no matter how much food he or she eats.
As a result of being malnourished, vitamin deficiencies are common in celiac disease (CD). Vitamin deficiencies are also associated with cataract formation, and a recent study confirmed that persons with Celiac disease are at increased risk of cataracts. Reporting in the American Journal of Epidemiology, researchers found an excess and increased risk of cataract formation in Celiac disease sufferers.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on abouttcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
As a result of being malnourished, vitamin deficiencies are common in celiac disease (CD). Vitamin deficiencies are also associated with cataract formation, and a recent study confirmed that persons with Celiac disease are at increased risk of cataracts. Reporting in the American Journal of Epidemiology, researchers found an excess and increased risk of cataract formation in Celiac disease sufferers.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on abouttcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Sunday, June 12, 2011
Lens Implants-One for Near and One for Far?
Question: What is the downside of one lens implant for distance and one implant lens for near vision?
Answer: The monovision Lens Implant technique-one Lens Implant for Near and one Lens Implant for far-is useful for some patients who wish to be less dependent or even free of eyeglasses after Cataract Surgery in lieu of a Multifocal Lens Implant. The downside on monovision Cataract Surgery is that some patients are unable to adapt to the "blended" vision and report unsatisfactory vision, headaches loss of depth perception and other symptoms. The success with monovision depends on careful measurements by the Cataract Surgeon in an attempt to determine the patient's tolerance to "defocus". When an acceptable tolerance to defocus can be demonstrated then the success rate of monovision Cataract Surgery is in the 75-80% range.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: The monovision Lens Implant technique-one Lens Implant for Near and one Lens Implant for far-is useful for some patients who wish to be less dependent or even free of eyeglasses after Cataract Surgery in lieu of a Multifocal Lens Implant. The downside on monovision Cataract Surgery is that some patients are unable to adapt to the "blended" vision and report unsatisfactory vision, headaches loss of depth perception and other symptoms. The success with monovision depends on careful measurements by the Cataract Surgeon in an attempt to determine the patient's tolerance to "defocus". When an acceptable tolerance to defocus can be demonstrated then the success rate of monovision Cataract Surgery is in the 75-80% range.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Cataract Surgery Refraction Costs
Question: My wife just had Cataract Surgery. The cataract Surgeon billed her $50 for the refraction he carried out before the operation saying that it is an extra service not covered by Medicare. She also elected to have special lens implants for $1200 per eye which we paid. Our feeling is that the refraction is part of the entire examination and procedure and should not be an extra. Please help me with this question.
Answer: Whether your wife had Cataract Surgery or not, the Medicare regulations indicate that refraction is a non covered service. So, even your doctor billed Medicare they would get a denial of coverage notice and bill you for the service. The refraction is relevant to the calculation of the intraocular lens implant (IOL) power and prescription but is simply not a covered service. This not a new regulation.
Unfortunately whether patients like it or not, this is how Medicare elects to treat refraction. This is the same as with the special lens implants-Medicare does not pay for them. They pay for basic lens implants only and tell the Cataract Surgeons to bill the patient for anything else. Medicare does pay for the surgery center facility fee which includes a basic monofocal lens implant and the Cataract Surgeon's surgical fee.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Whether your wife had Cataract Surgery or not, the Medicare regulations indicate that refraction is a non covered service. So, even your doctor billed Medicare they would get a denial of coverage notice and bill you for the service. The refraction is relevant to the calculation of the intraocular lens implant (IOL) power and prescription but is simply not a covered service. This not a new regulation.
Unfortunately whether patients like it or not, this is how Medicare elects to treat refraction. This is the same as with the special lens implants-Medicare does not pay for them. They pay for basic lens implants only and tell the Cataract Surgeons to bill the patient for anything else. Medicare does pay for the surgery center facility fee which includes a basic monofocal lens implant and the Cataract Surgeon's surgical fee.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Friday, June 10, 2011
Macular Degeneration & Diet Factors
Dietary factors are known risk factors for Age Related Macular Degeneration (AMD) which is the leading cause of vision loss among persons aged 65 and above. In particular, high glycemic index diets have been hypothesized as a risk factor for AMD. Glycemic Index is a measure of the effect of carbohydrates on blood sugar levels. Most fruits and vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts and fructose products low in carbohydrates and have a low glycemic index. Most foods like baked potatoes, extruded breakfast cereals, white bread, white rice and corn flakes are high glycemic index foods.
Researchers reporting in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition studied the association between dietary glycemic index and the 10 year incidence of AMD in the Blue Mountain Eye Study population. Over 10 years, 208 of 1810 persons developed early AMD. After age, smoking, other risk factors, and dietary constituents were adjusted for, a higher mean dietary glycemic index was associated with an increased 10 year risk of early AMD. Conversely, a greater consumption of cereal fiber and breads and cereals (predominantly lower glycemic index foods such as oatmeal) was associated with a reduced risk of incident early AMD. No relation was observed with late AMD. The researchers concluded that a high glycemic index diet is a risk factor for early AMD—the recognized precursor of sight threatening late AMD. Low glycemic-index foods such as oatmeal may protect against early AMD.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.abouthttp://www.aboutcataractsurgery.comcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Researchers reporting in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition studied the association between dietary glycemic index and the 10 year incidence of AMD in the Blue Mountain Eye Study population. Over 10 years, 208 of 1810 persons developed early AMD. After age, smoking, other risk factors, and dietary constituents were adjusted for, a higher mean dietary glycemic index was associated with an increased 10 year risk of early AMD. Conversely, a greater consumption of cereal fiber and breads and cereals (predominantly lower glycemic index foods such as oatmeal) was associated with a reduced risk of incident early AMD. No relation was observed with late AMD. The researchers concluded that a high glycemic index diet is a risk factor for early AMD—the recognized precursor of sight threatening late AMD. Low glycemic-index foods such as oatmeal may protect against early AMD.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.abouthttp://www.aboutcataractsurgery.comcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
How to Choose a Lens Implant (IOL)
Question: How do you know which lens implant to choose whether it be for close up vision or far away? What if your choice turns out to be totally wrong for your needs can it be changed later on?
Answer: Choosing a Lens Implant for Cataract Surgery requires some thought and discussion with your Cataract Surgeon. Choosing the right type of Lens Implant depends first and foremost on the recommendation of your Cataract Surgeon based on the overall condition of your eyes-AND in consideration of your having reviewed with him or her details about your lifestyle and daily activities that you would like to be able to do with minimal, if any, dependence of eyeglasses. Top Cataract Surgeons will often make a recommendation based on the medical findings during your evaluation and then have you speak with a staff member who will conduct a discussion called a lifestyle needs assessment to get to know the daily activities you wish to pursue glasses free.
Based on how you use your eyes each day and for what distances you conduct you everyday at, together it will become obvious what type of IOL is the best choice for your individual needs. If this is done carefully and thoughtfully, there shouldn't be any concern. If, within a brief time of having a Lens Implant, you are absolutely miserable it is possible to explant it, BUT this is NOT something anyone wants to do, as it is a second intraocular surgery with the potential for additional complications and should only be done if absolutely necessary.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Choosing a Lens Implant for Cataract Surgery requires some thought and discussion with your Cataract Surgeon. Choosing the right type of Lens Implant depends first and foremost on the recommendation of your Cataract Surgeon based on the overall condition of your eyes-AND in consideration of your having reviewed with him or her details about your lifestyle and daily activities that you would like to be able to do with minimal, if any, dependence of eyeglasses. Top Cataract Surgeons will often make a recommendation based on the medical findings during your evaluation and then have you speak with a staff member who will conduct a discussion called a lifestyle needs assessment to get to know the daily activities you wish to pursue glasses free.
Based on how you use your eyes each day and for what distances you conduct you everyday at, together it will become obvious what type of IOL is the best choice for your individual needs. If this is done carefully and thoughtfully, there shouldn't be any concern. If, within a brief time of having a Lens Implant, you are absolutely miserable it is possible to explant it, BUT this is NOT something anyone wants to do, as it is a second intraocular surgery with the potential for additional complications and should only be done if absolutely necessary.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Cataract Surgery & Aspheric Lens Implants-Intermediate Vision?
Question: I am getting an aspheric standard IOL lens implant and I have slight astigmatism that will likely be corrected at the time of surgery via incisions. If I choose to correct for distance vision, will the vision be sharp and crisp enough that I would NOT require glasses for distance vision.
Additionally, I know I will need reading glasses if I opt for distance vision correction, will they take care of both near and intermediate vision? I am confused about where intermediate vision falls on the spectrum.
Answer: The reason you are confused is because this indeed is a little confusing. If as part of your Cataract Surgery, your aspheric lens implants (IOL) and Limbal Relaxing Incisions (LRI) with the targeted correction set for seeing clearly at distance-you are highly likely to NOT need eyeglasses to see at distance. So your thinking here is correct. However, "focusing" your eyes optically for distance with the Lens Implants means that pretty much for certain, you will need at least some help reading and probably some help for seeing objects clearly that are closer than perhaps 36", depending on the size and detail of the object. This is where it gets confusing-depending of the type of aspheric IOL used, your pupil size, the size of the objects to be read at near and intermediate distances, the amount and type of aberration in your cornea-often patients are pleasantly surprised when they have an aspheric IOL with a little bit of "over plus." Cataract Surgeons are reluctant to overstate or over promise the near and intermediate vision with aspheric IOLs as it really can vary widely from patient to patient. However, the worst case scenario is that you essentially got NO improved range of vision from the aspheric IOL and only had clear distance vision. In this instance, if there were a total near point and intermediate void, you would probably be best served by progressive addition spectacle lenses, which work well for the full intermediate and near range of vision-worn on an as needed basis.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Additionally, I know I will need reading glasses if I opt for distance vision correction, will they take care of both near and intermediate vision? I am confused about where intermediate vision falls on the spectrum.
Answer: The reason you are confused is because this indeed is a little confusing. If as part of your Cataract Surgery, your aspheric lens implants (IOL) and Limbal Relaxing Incisions (LRI) with the targeted correction set for seeing clearly at distance-you are highly likely to NOT need eyeglasses to see at distance. So your thinking here is correct. However, "focusing" your eyes optically for distance with the Lens Implants means that pretty much for certain, you will need at least some help reading and probably some help for seeing objects clearly that are closer than perhaps 36", depending on the size and detail of the object. This is where it gets confusing-depending of the type of aspheric IOL used, your pupil size, the size of the objects to be read at near and intermediate distances, the amount and type of aberration in your cornea-often patients are pleasantly surprised when they have an aspheric IOL with a little bit of "over plus." Cataract Surgeons are reluctant to overstate or over promise the near and intermediate vision with aspheric IOLs as it really can vary widely from patient to patient. However, the worst case scenario is that you essentially got NO improved range of vision from the aspheric IOL and only had clear distance vision. In this instance, if there were a total near point and intermediate void, you would probably be best served by progressive addition spectacle lenses, which work well for the full intermediate and near range of vision-worn on an as needed basis.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Lens Replacement for High Hyperopia
Question: I am a 53 year old female. I have had bad vision since the age of 2 and worn hard contact lenses since the age of l3. Since the age of 48 I have spent thousands of dollars on contact lenses to get me to wear my gas permeable contacts with ease again. I went thru menopause at 50 and was on birth control for many years. I also was a sun worshiper and I am now paying the price because I was never warned that all of these things have contributed to my dry eyes (bad) and now have difficulty wearing my lenses. I have tried doctor after doctor for almost 4 years and force myself to wear the lenses but they are getting more difficult to tolerate each and every month. My prescription with contacts is +5.75 with astigmatism. The bad dry eyes prevent me from night driving because of halos and poor vision. My astigmatism changes every year now and they say I have the beginning of cataracts. I went to 2 surgeons who told me to go back to glasses because they could not promise the outcome of Lens Replacement and my corneas are too steep for LASIK as well as having the dry eyes. My glasses are heavy and I cannot get use to them. My progressive glasses are so hard to get use to. Do you think I should continue to seek out a cataract doctor to help me or just give in to glasses?
Answer: Corneal exhaustion from contact lenses is actually not all that uncommon, particularly where there are thick heavy contact lenses involved. Yes, the hormonal changes you experienced combined with the contact lens exhaustion will prohibit you from wearing contact lenses successfully. Further, the dry eye and the high hyperopic prescription make you a poor candidate for LASIK, as you relay. Now, the fact that you have the beginning of cataracts may also be contributing to your halo and poor vision. Cataracts or not, with some successful treatment of your dry eye you may be a candidate for Lens Replacement Surgery BUT only if you can discontinue wearing your contacts for a long enough period of time so that the shape of your corneas become stable enough to take accurate measurements. The years of wearing RGP contacts, along with the instability of the astigmatism, suggests that you have corneal molding and shape change and need to discontinue contact lens wear PRIOR to the final measurements being taken for an intraocular lens implant (IOL). Considering the number of years you have been wearing contacts, it might be as long as 6 months before your corneas are stable and can be properly measured and given the severity of the dry eye you report it may take 3-4 months of aggressive dry eye therapy and treatment to get your tear film healthy enough for an easy eye surgery recovery. Your next step is to find a top Cataract Surgeon who is also a Refractive Surgeon and schedule an examination and consultation so they can guide you on the best path and options that might be available.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Corneal exhaustion from contact lenses is actually not all that uncommon, particularly where there are thick heavy contact lenses involved. Yes, the hormonal changes you experienced combined with the contact lens exhaustion will prohibit you from wearing contact lenses successfully. Further, the dry eye and the high hyperopic prescription make you a poor candidate for LASIK, as you relay. Now, the fact that you have the beginning of cataracts may also be contributing to your halo and poor vision. Cataracts or not, with some successful treatment of your dry eye you may be a candidate for Lens Replacement Surgery BUT only if you can discontinue wearing your contacts for a long enough period of time so that the shape of your corneas become stable enough to take accurate measurements. The years of wearing RGP contacts, along with the instability of the astigmatism, suggests that you have corneal molding and shape change and need to discontinue contact lens wear PRIOR to the final measurements being taken for an intraocular lens implant (IOL). Considering the number of years you have been wearing contacts, it might be as long as 6 months before your corneas are stable and can be properly measured and given the severity of the dry eye you report it may take 3-4 months of aggressive dry eye therapy and treatment to get your tear film healthy enough for an easy eye surgery recovery. Your next step is to find a top Cataract Surgeon who is also a Refractive Surgeon and schedule an examination and consultation so they can guide you on the best path and options that might be available.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Cataract Surgery Complications & Age
Cataract Surgery today is a high technology procedure that is safe, effective and predictable when performed by an experienced Cataract Surgeon. Yet, one has to wonder whether as patients get older their risk of complications with Cataract Surgery tends to increase with age. It might seem somewhat intuitive that the Cataract Surgery complication rate should increase as patients increase in frailty, circulation is further compromised and healing might even be somewhat slower. Researchers from the US Veterans Health Administration (VHA) reported at the Chicago 2010 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology on the complication rate within 90 days of Cataract Surgery of a group of of 554 nonagenarians (age 90-99) and compared it the complication rate in a group of 11,407 octogenarians (age 80-89) who received Cataract Surgery in the VHA. The types of intraoperative and postoperative complications were identical between the two groups and the risk of having any intraoperative or postoperative complication was 13.5% for octogenarians and 13.4% for nonagenarians. The conclusion is that nonagenarians relative to octogenarians are not at increased risk of ocular complications from Cataract Surgery.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Tuesday, June 7, 2011
Multifocal Lens Implants & Cataracts
Question: I am having a cataract removal and lens replacement in 2 weeks. Does the new lens assist in both near vision as well as long vision, i.e. driving? Is it one or the other. I do not recall this being discussed at my last cataract specialist examination. Should I clarify this with my cataract surgeon?
Answer: Modern Cataract Surgery almost always involves the use of a Lens Implant (IOL) to correct vision. There are four types of intraocular lens implants-monofocal lens implants, aspheric lens implants, astigmatism correcting lens implants and near vision presbyopia correcting multifocal and accommodating lens implants. Monofocal lens implants are the most basic and only correct vision for distance and thus require eyeglasses for arm's length and intermediate vision. Aspheric lens implants provide the same overall ranges of vision as Monofocal lens implants but do so with crisper vision especially in dim or low contrast settings. Astigmatism correcting lens implants also provide the same range of vision as the Monofocal and Aspheric lens implants but correct astigmatism as well. Near vision presbyopia correcting multifocal or accommodating lens implants correct distance vision as well as increase the range of vision and clarity at arm's length and near. You should absolutely discuss the Lens Implant options that might be available to you with you Cataract Surgeon. Not all cataract patients are suitable for near vision presbyopia correcting multifocal or accommodating lens implants. Your suitability will depend on your prescription, the overall health of your eyes and what vision expectations you have along with your lifestyle and how you use your eyes in your daily activities.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Modern Cataract Surgery almost always involves the use of a Lens Implant (IOL) to correct vision. There are four types of intraocular lens implants-monofocal lens implants, aspheric lens implants, astigmatism correcting lens implants and near vision presbyopia correcting multifocal and accommodating lens implants. Monofocal lens implants are the most basic and only correct vision for distance and thus require eyeglasses for arm's length and intermediate vision. Aspheric lens implants provide the same overall ranges of vision as Monofocal lens implants but do so with crisper vision especially in dim or low contrast settings. Astigmatism correcting lens implants also provide the same range of vision as the Monofocal and Aspheric lens implants but correct astigmatism as well. Near vision presbyopia correcting multifocal or accommodating lens implants correct distance vision as well as increase the range of vision and clarity at arm's length and near. You should absolutely discuss the Lens Implant options that might be available to you with you Cataract Surgeon. Not all cataract patients are suitable for near vision presbyopia correcting multifocal or accommodating lens implants. Your suitability will depend on your prescription, the overall health of your eyes and what vision expectations you have along with your lifestyle and how you use your eyes in your daily activities.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Cataract Surgery after PRK
Question: I do not have cataracts as of yet. I expect I am heading towards them sometime in the next decade or so. I had PRK in the mid 90's. My vision has remained flawless to date. My eye surgeon from that time has retired and closed her practice. I have been told I need pre-PRK records for cataract lens replacement creation. How much a detriment will this be if I can't obtain them?
Answer: If you develop a Cataract and in fact do need Cataract Surgery and you have had previous Laser Eye Surgery such as PRK or LASIK, it is indeed helpful to have your previous measurements including corneal curvature, refraction, corneal shape and thickness. However, advanced measurement technology for Lens Implants (IOL) has come a really long way and thus it is not imperative to have these measurements-only helpful. However, when you are seeking a Cataract examination and consultation you should find the best Cataract Surgeon who is also a Refractive Laser Eye Surgeon as they will have access to and experience with cases just like yours.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: If you develop a Cataract and in fact do need Cataract Surgery and you have had previous Laser Eye Surgery such as PRK or LASIK, it is indeed helpful to have your previous measurements including corneal curvature, refraction, corneal shape and thickness. However, advanced measurement technology for Lens Implants (IOL) has come a really long way and thus it is not imperative to have these measurements-only helpful. However, when you are seeking a Cataract examination and consultation you should find the best Cataract Surgeon who is also a Refractive Laser Eye Surgeon as they will have access to and experience with cases just like yours.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Cataracts and High Nearsightedness
Question: I am very nearsighted and have cataracts in both eyes. I also have astigmatism in both eyes and am not a candidate for toric implants. If I have the first eye's cataract removed and a distance lens implanted, how will I use my glasses for the non operated eye, as the glasses will no longer work with the eye which has an implant for distance only.
Answer: Having a Cataract removed when you are extremely nearsighted can pose a brief inconvenience but it is only temporary. You are correct in you understanding that when you have the first Cataract removed you will not be able to wear your eyeglasses as there will be an optical imbalance created by seeing well with little or no need for a distance correction in the operated eye with the Lens Implant and a continuing need for a correction for high nearsightedness. Your option will be to wear a contact lens temporarily in the unoperated eye until the second eye can have Cataract Surgery. It is also possible that the second eye has poor enough vision as a result of the Cataract that it will be visually suppressed when the first eye operated and you may be more comfortable without correction at all in that eye. The best thing to do is follow your Cataract Surgeons's advice and have the second eye scheduled for surgery as soon as he or she things it is possible.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Having a Cataract removed when you are extremely nearsighted can pose a brief inconvenience but it is only temporary. You are correct in you understanding that when you have the first Cataract removed you will not be able to wear your eyeglasses as there will be an optical imbalance created by seeing well with little or no need for a distance correction in the operated eye with the Lens Implant and a continuing need for a correction for high nearsightedness. Your option will be to wear a contact lens temporarily in the unoperated eye until the second eye can have Cataract Surgery. It is also possible that the second eye has poor enough vision as a result of the Cataract that it will be visually suppressed when the first eye operated and you may be more comfortable without correction at all in that eye. The best thing to do is follow your Cataract Surgeons's advice and have the second eye scheduled for surgery as soon as he or she things it is possible.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Scarring after Cataract Surgery? Is it true?
Question: I recently had cataract surgery in both eyes, have no astigmatism and only use glasses for reading. I had intraocular lenses (IOL) implanted to replace the cloudy lenses in each eye. At my two week visit after the second eye cataract operation the cataract surgeon informed me that I might need some minor surgery because sometimes with these lenses within one to ten years scar tissue may appear. It hasn't yet obviously but it may and it is a simple procedure to take care of it. He never made mention of it earlier and I am just curious about it. It wouldn't have made a difference as I needed the cataract surgery but is this true?
Answer: Cataract Surgery is quite technically complex and really pretty amazing. Most likely what your Cataract Surgeon is referring to is a Cataract Surgery complication called "posterior capsular opacification." This condition is sometimes referred to as a "secondary cataract" or "after cataract" and affects some 30% of patients who have Cataract Surgery. A Cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens of the eye. Although it might sound funny, the structure of the crystalline lens is like an M&M candy-it has a soft center and is surrounded by a "capsule" or membrane. During a Cataract operation the eye surgeon removes the cloudy soft center and leaves the "capsule" behind often placing the intraocular lens implant (IOL) inside the "capsule" to stabilize and secure it. Over time some patients experience a clouding of the capsule that almost makes it seem as if the Cataract is returning-which isn't possible. The treatment for this condition, "posterior capsular opacification," uses a laser to painlessly create an opening in the capsule to restore vision. This procedure is called a YAG Laser Capsulotomy and is quick, painless, requires only eye drops to numb the eye and instantly improves the vision.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Cataract Surgery is quite technically complex and really pretty amazing. Most likely what your Cataract Surgeon is referring to is a Cataract Surgery complication called "posterior capsular opacification." This condition is sometimes referred to as a "secondary cataract" or "after cataract" and affects some 30% of patients who have Cataract Surgery. A Cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens of the eye. Although it might sound funny, the structure of the crystalline lens is like an M&M candy-it has a soft center and is surrounded by a "capsule" or membrane. During a Cataract operation the eye surgeon removes the cloudy soft center and leaves the "capsule" behind often placing the intraocular lens implant (IOL) inside the "capsule" to stabilize and secure it. Over time some patients experience a clouding of the capsule that almost makes it seem as if the Cataract is returning-which isn't possible. The treatment for this condition, "posterior capsular opacification," uses a laser to painlessly create an opening in the capsule to restore vision. This procedure is called a YAG Laser Capsulotomy and is quick, painless, requires only eye drops to numb the eye and instantly improves the vision.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Cataract-Lens Implants or Laser Surgery?
Question: Are multifocal lens implants and laser surgery both options for cataracts. If so which is better. Multifocal lenses were the only option given to me.
Answer: You may be confusing several different things here. Cataract Surgery is performed to remove clouding of the crystalline lens in the eye-a Cataract. At the time of a Cataract operation a tiny plastic lens implant is placed in the eye to replace the focusing power lost by the removal of the crystalline lens in order to correct vision. Up until recently primary Cataract Surgery did not involve the use of a laser. Today in a very limited number of surgery centers a laser can be used as part of the Cataract removal however it's use is not at all common or usual at this time. Whether the Cataract is removed by the advanced technique currently in widespread use or removed using a laser-you still need to have a Lens Implant in order to see clearly after Cataract Surgery. If you are asking whether Laser Eye Surgery such as LASIK is used to provide the primary vision correction after Cataract Surgery the answer is no. Laser Eye Surgery such as LASIK is used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and/or astigmatism but NOT aphakia-the condition whereby the crystalline lens has been removed from your eye due to a Cataract. Sometimes a laser is used after a Cataract operation to treat a condition called "posterior capsular opacification" which occurs in as many as 30% of eyes after Cataract Surgery and sometimes Laser Eye Surgery such as LASIK might be used to enhance or refine the results of a multifocal lens implant-but in virtually ALL patients an intraocular lens implant (IOL) is the primary method of vision correction after Cataract Surgery.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: You may be confusing several different things here. Cataract Surgery is performed to remove clouding of the crystalline lens in the eye-a Cataract. At the time of a Cataract operation a tiny plastic lens implant is placed in the eye to replace the focusing power lost by the removal of the crystalline lens in order to correct vision. Up until recently primary Cataract Surgery did not involve the use of a laser. Today in a very limited number of surgery centers a laser can be used as part of the Cataract removal however it's use is not at all common or usual at this time. Whether the Cataract is removed by the advanced technique currently in widespread use or removed using a laser-you still need to have a Lens Implant in order to see clearly after Cataract Surgery. If you are asking whether Laser Eye Surgery such as LASIK is used to provide the primary vision correction after Cataract Surgery the answer is no. Laser Eye Surgery such as LASIK is used to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness and/or astigmatism but NOT aphakia-the condition whereby the crystalline lens has been removed from your eye due to a Cataract. Sometimes a laser is used after a Cataract operation to treat a condition called "posterior capsular opacification" which occurs in as many as 30% of eyes after Cataract Surgery and sometimes Laser Eye Surgery such as LASIK might be used to enhance or refine the results of a multifocal lens implant-but in virtually ALL patients an intraocular lens implant (IOL) is the primary method of vision correction after Cataract Surgery.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Cataract Surgery Starbursts from IOL?
Question: Have you ever heard of an IOL having a defect that resulted in a line on the lens that gave a starbursts 11:00 to 5:00 from headlights and other point sources of light? I have this in my right eye and it is making driving very difficult. Other than that, my vision with glasses in that eye is 20/15 and mildly nearsighted without glasses.
Answer: The consensus among our Cataract Surgeon Editorial Advisors is that a defect in an intraocular lens implant (IOL) is indeed exceedingly unusual. It is possible that the lens was damaged during insertion but this extremely rare as well, but could happen. Although it is not easy for the Advisors to comment without actually observing, there is a common suggestion that based on their own experiences that a more likely cause is a very fine crease in the posterior capsule which is typically left in place to allow the proper positioning and stability of the IOL. If this is the case, after waiting 90 days or so after your surgery to see if it resolves, your Cataract Surgeon will be able to perform a YAG Laser Capsulotomy which is a quick, painless laser procedure done with eye drops to numb the eye and takes just a few minutes. This will allow an optically clear opening to be placed in the capsule and should alleviate the symptoms. If this is not the case then other sources can be ruled out such as some transillumination defect in the Iris-also very rare. By instilling pupil constricting eye drops in the eye surgeons office this too can be ruled out. Yes, a lens defect or damage can occur, but it is very rare and other sources of your symptoms should be ruled out as well.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: The consensus among our Cataract Surgeon Editorial Advisors is that a defect in an intraocular lens implant (IOL) is indeed exceedingly unusual. It is possible that the lens was damaged during insertion but this extremely rare as well, but could happen. Although it is not easy for the Advisors to comment without actually observing, there is a common suggestion that based on their own experiences that a more likely cause is a very fine crease in the posterior capsule which is typically left in place to allow the proper positioning and stability of the IOL. If this is the case, after waiting 90 days or so after your surgery to see if it resolves, your Cataract Surgeon will be able to perform a YAG Laser Capsulotomy which is a quick, painless laser procedure done with eye drops to numb the eye and takes just a few minutes. This will allow an optically clear opening to be placed in the capsule and should alleviate the symptoms. If this is not the case then other sources can be ruled out such as some transillumination defect in the Iris-also very rare. By instilling pupil constricting eye drops in the eye surgeons office this too can be ruled out. Yes, a lens defect or damage can occur, but it is very rare and other sources of your symptoms should be ruled out as well.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Sunday, June 5, 2011
AcrySof®ReSTOR® Lens Implant-How Long To Adjust?
Question: On the AcrySof®ReSTOR® Lens apparently the light is alternating and can cause distress, or will take time to adjust. I am not sure what the experience is exactly and what to expect. Can you explain this for me? I don't mind if it takes time to adjust but again not sure about what the experience is.
Answer: What you are questioning is the process of “neuroadaptation.” Simply, throughout your life, the brain has learned to interpret the patterns of light that are transmitted through the optic nerve as “images”-and that is how you see. These interpretations of the patterns are learned. You may recall that sometimes when you received a new eyeglass prescription it may have taken time to “get used to”-this is neuroadaptation-your visual cortex learning to interpret light differently. Near vision presbyopia correcting intraocular lens implants (IOL) such as the AcrySof®ReSTOR® Multifocal Lens Implant and the Tecnis® Multifocal Lens Implant used to correct vision after Cataract Surgery rely on some type of sophisticated optical design to allow you to achieve “multifocal” vision-that is, clarity for seeing distance, arm’s length and near through one lens implant. These different optical designs achieve their effect by changing the way light is transmitted and thus the way images are interpreted. Patients who have these types of lenses implanted experience varying degrees of “neuroadaptation” –or “getting used to.” Typically with the AcrySof®ReSTOR® Multifocal Lens, patients experience an immediate improvement in both their distance and near vision-but it may require a bit of concentration to seem perfectly natural. The more you use your vision the quicker you will experience a decrease in the concentration needed to experience the full range of vision. For some patients who are very “neuroplastic” it can take a few days or a week-for others it can take a couple of months. It does seem to get easier with increased use-even if it seems a bit difficult at first. In addition it is normal and expected to possibly see some glare and halos-this too diminishes and becomes unnoticeable over time. You should note however that the complete beneficial effects of near vision correcting lens implants and the total neuroadaptation process cannot be complete until you have Cataract Surgery and Intraocular Lens Implantation in BOTH eyes.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: What you are questioning is the process of “neuroadaptation.” Simply, throughout your life, the brain has learned to interpret the patterns of light that are transmitted through the optic nerve as “images”-and that is how you see. These interpretations of the patterns are learned. You may recall that sometimes when you received a new eyeglass prescription it may have taken time to “get used to”-this is neuroadaptation-your visual cortex learning to interpret light differently. Near vision presbyopia correcting intraocular lens implants (IOL) such as the AcrySof®ReSTOR® Multifocal Lens Implant and the Tecnis® Multifocal Lens Implant used to correct vision after Cataract Surgery rely on some type of sophisticated optical design to allow you to achieve “multifocal” vision-that is, clarity for seeing distance, arm’s length and near through one lens implant. These different optical designs achieve their effect by changing the way light is transmitted and thus the way images are interpreted. Patients who have these types of lenses implanted experience varying degrees of “neuroadaptation” –or “getting used to.” Typically with the AcrySof®ReSTOR® Multifocal Lens, patients experience an immediate improvement in both their distance and near vision-but it may require a bit of concentration to seem perfectly natural. The more you use your vision the quicker you will experience a decrease in the concentration needed to experience the full range of vision. For some patients who are very “neuroplastic” it can take a few days or a week-for others it can take a couple of months. It does seem to get easier with increased use-even if it seems a bit difficult at first. In addition it is normal and expected to possibly see some glare and halos-this too diminishes and becomes unnoticeable over time. You should note however that the complete beneficial effects of near vision correcting lens implants and the total neuroadaptation process cannot be complete until you have Cataract Surgery and Intraocular Lens Implantation in BOTH eyes.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Wednesday, June 1, 2011
Cataracts and Driving Safety
Cataract Surgery not only improves vision and quality of life for older people, but is also apparently a way to reduce the number of car crashes according to a study reported at the American Academy of Ophthalmology Meeting in Chicago. Researchers from Curtin University and the Eye & Vision Epidemiology Research Group reviewed the records of 27,827 patients who had a Cataract removed from one eye between 1997 and 2006. Patient records were linked to the Western Australian Road Injury Database to identify those involved in a motor vehicle crash 12 months prior to and 12 months following their Cataract Surgery dates. All patients were aged 60+ years. The majority of patients involved in crashes were males aged 70-79 who lived in metropolitan areas. They found that Cataract Surgery on the first eye reduced the frequency of all crashes by 12.6%. More research is needed to further measure the reduction in crashes after the second eye has a Cataract operation and Intraocular Lens Implantation. Surgical removal of Cataract followed by implantation of intraocular lenses dramatically improves vision for most patients and this study argues that any delay in access to cataract Surgery significantly impacts not only patients' quality of life, but public safety and healthcare, and property costs.
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