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Cataract Surgery In Colorado Springs

What is a cataract?

As we age the lens in our eyes naturally starts to become less clear, or cloudy. This fogging up of the lens, which is located in between the iris and the pupil of the eye, causes severe vision loss and is, in fact, the leading cause of blindness in the world for people over 40. In the US, cataract surgery is one of the most common outpatient procedures, with the whole procedure lasting around 10 minutes followed by up to an hour of recuperation before being sent home.

Comprehensive Eye Exams in Colorado Springs, Co

What Causes cataracts?

The number one cause of cataracts is aging. However other elements of lifestyle, eye trauma, previous eye diseases and conditions can all increase the likelihood of developing cataracts. For example, studies suggest people with high myopia are at an increased risk of developing cataracts, people with high exposure to sunshine, smokers, and people with diabetes all are more likely to have cataracts than the general population.

 

How do I know if I have Cataracts?

The best way to know if you have cataracts is to visit us at our Colorado Springs practice for an eye exam with our optometrists to assess your eyes. You may start experiencing certain visual symptoms of cataracts such as blurred vision, difficulty driving during the night or with bright lights at night.

What happens during Cataract surgery?

Our Surgeon, Dr. Zamora uses a process called phacoemulsification, where ultrasound waves shatter the lens which is then suctioned away and replaced with a replacement lens called an IOL. Before the procedure, you will undergo a thorough evaluation by one of our optometrists, followed by an in-depth explanation of the different options of lenses that are available for each patient. Lenses are available for single, multifocal, and even to correct astigmatism. Before the surgery at our Colorado Springs Eye Care Center, our eye doctor will explain what to expect during the whole procedure. The procedure is quick, with local anesthesia, and the patient going home usually within an hour and a half of the procedure.

 

Will I have to wear glasses after cataract surgery?

This will depend on the lens that you choose. If the patient chooses a multifocal intraocular lens, then they may not require glasses or reading glasses. In many cases, there are some remaining refractive errors and the patient will still need to wear glasses.

 

What kind of results can I expect from cataract surgery

Today there are over 3 million cataract surgeries performed in the US every year, with the overwhelming majority of them being a huge success.

 

Do complications arise from cataract surgery?

Certain previous eye conditions may increase the risk of complications. However, Cataract surgery is considered one of the safest surgeries in the US. In around .1% of cases Endophthalmitis an extremely serious infection that can potentially lead to permanent vision loss occurs. The incidence of retinal detachment is 1 out of every 3000, retinal detachment can be treated if caught early. Age is not a risk factor, however, diabetes increases the risk of complications by 33%.  

 

Is cataract surgery right for me?

Cataract surgery is the right path when your cataracts begin to impact your daily life. When it becomes difficult to watch tv, drive a car, or read a book, you should consider cataract surgery. Luckily for us, today's technology has brought cataract surgery to the point where it is extremely successful, minimally painful or difficult, and has a low likelihood of complication.

 

Does insurance cover cataract surgery?

Most health insurances such as Medicare deem cataract surgery as a medically necessary procedure and cover the procedure.

Specifically, Medicare covers:

  • The removal of the clouded cataract lens
  • Basic lens implants

Depending on your needs and insurance plan our Ophthalmologist will help you decide a treatment plan that will be best for you.

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