New Procedure Improves Effectiveness of Cataract Surgery

Cataracts are a common vision problem, affecting millions of Americans over the age of 50. Surgery is required to correct the issue, and if cataracts are left untreated, you run a serious risk of blindness. Approximately three million Americans undergo cataract surgery each year.

Unfortunately, traditional cataract surgery does not correct refractive errors that existed before your surgery. Almost two-thirds or cataract patients still require corrective lenses to see properly after their cataract surgery.

When you develop cataracts, your eye's lens becomes cloudy, impairing your vision. Over time, your vision will progressively deteriorate until you become blind. In traditional cataract surgery, a fixed intraocular lens is implanted into your eye to replace your natural lens that has started deteriorating. After the surgery, any refractive error you previously had will still exist.

Fortunately, there is a new procedure being clinically tested which can correct all of your vision problems during your cataract surgery. This new procedure uses a different type of intraocular lens that is made out of photosensitive silicone. The lens changes shape as light hits it, which helps to accommodate for any nearsightedness or farsightedness issues you may also experience. As a result, your refractive error can be corrected as part of the procedure.

The light adjustable lens can be custom-made for your eye, enabling you to get rid of your glasses or contacts after the procedure. Once approved by the FDA, this new lens may revolutionize cataract surgery.

You can use the links at the bottom of this page to find a qualified ophthalmologist in your area.