Eyecare Services
Cataract Surgery Co-Management
Cataracts are a leading cause of blindness around the world, but they are entirely treatable. Unlike some other eye diseases that enforce a state of permanent vision loss, the effects of cataracts can be eliminated simply by surgically removing and replacing the diseased lens of the eye. This procedure is remarkably quick, painless, and successful, but it still requires a degree of pre-surgical preparation and post-surgical care. Here at Austin Vision Center, we’re proud to serve as your source for cataract surgery co-management.
How Cataract Surgery Works
Cataracts are protein accumulations in the eyes’ lenses that turn the lenses opaque, blocking and distorting incoming light. Most cataracts are a natural by-product of aging and can take decades to turn into a serious impediment. Other forms of cataracts may develop more rapidly due to UV exposure, smoking, excessive drinking, steroid medications, or underlying ailments, such as diabetes. As your cataracts worsen, you may experience blurred vision, color or contrast distortion, and halo patterns around bright lights.
Cataract surgery quite literally removes those symptoms permanently by removing the lens itself. In a state-of-the-art procedure, a surgical laser makes an incision in the tissue capsule that contains the lens. Ultrasound is then used to break up the lens, which is then easily extracted. The surgeon implants an artificial lens in the lens capsule, restoring clear vision. Some lenses even correct for refractive errors, potentially eliminating the need for glasses.
Pre-Operative Counseling and Post-Operative Exams from Our Eye Doctor
Your cataracts may not need surgical intervention for many years. Our eye doctors will check your cataract development through annual comprehensive eye and vision exams to see how rapidly they’re forming and to what extent they’re affecting your eyesight. Corrective lenses and special lens tints can compensate for blurriness, glare sensitivity, and contrast problem, but when our optometrists can no longer correct your vision to an acceptable state, we will recommend surgery and make the necessary referral.
The day after surgery, it’s time for your first post-operative exam to make sure that all is well. Your optometrist then performs a series of follow-up exam in the weeks and months to come. If you need corrective lenses following your cataract surgery we can make sure you get the proper prescription.
Schedule the Help You Need at Austin Vision Center
Cataract surgery can give your eyes a new lease on life, so make sure you’re going about it the right way. You can reach us at 512-477-2282 at our central office.