Cataracts
Advanced cataract surgery to restore clear vision. Learn more about our safe, effective procedures. Book your cataract consultation today.
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Cataracts Overview
Cataracts occur naturally as we age and affect more than 22 million Americans over the age of 40. Thankfully, the great majority of individuals whose eyesight is impaired by this common condition have an excellent and effective solution in the form of cataract surgery. In fact, surgical cataract treatment has one of the highest success rates of all ocular procedures performed today. Ultimately, the decision to have cataract surgery can be a life-changing one—allowing you to experience clear vision once again.
What is a Cataract?
A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens of the eye. The natural lens, located behind the cornea and iris, focuses light on the retina to allow your eye to see a sharp, clear image. As we age, proteins in the lens can clump together and cloud the lens. As a result, light is unable to pass through this now cloudy lens and creates a hazy image instead of a clear one. Initially, in the early stages of development, cataracts may have little effect on vision. However, as it progresses, changes in vision may occur.
The most common symptoms of a cataract include:
Read about the types of cataracts
There are 3 main types of cataracts:
- Nuclear Sclerotic – This is the most common type of cataract and is the result of the yellowing of the lens as we age. Nuclear sclerotic cataracts affect the central part of the lens.
- Cortical – This type of cataract shows as white cloudy areas or streaks that develop on the peripheral side of the lens.
- Posterior Subcapsular – This type of cataract develops as a cloudy area on the back of the lens. It may be associated with people who have had trauma, been diagnosed with diabetes, or takes certain medications such as steroids.
The good news is, each type of cataract can usually be treated successfully with cataract surgery.
Read about the causes of cataracts
The most common cause for cataracts is simply the aging of the eye. Other causes include:
- Certain diseases such as diabetes
- Smoking
- High blood pressure
- Long-term exposure to sunlight
- Alcohol use
- Family history of cataracts
- Injury to the eye
- Certain medications such as steroids
Need Cataracts Help Now?
For more information about eye care, or if you would like to schedule a consultation with one of our friendly doctors, please contact us today!
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Vision Correction Options at Chester County Eye Care
We offer multiple vision correction options to treat your cataracts. Please note, not all patients are candidates for every option. Your physician will work with you to select one that you qualify for and that aligns with your vision goals.
Uses a Multi-focal or Extended Depth of Focus Lens (EDOF)
*Cataract surgery is billed through insurance. The additional fee is for services that are not covered by insurance such as treatment of astigmatism and/or presbyopia.
**Not all patients will require or qualify for laser assistance. Your surgeon will discuss the specifics with you.
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Frequently Asked Questions
We understand that navigating cataracts eye care options can feel overwhelming. To help you feel informed and confident, we've compiled answers to some of the most common questions about our services, treatments, and what to expect during your visit.
If you do not find the answer to your question, please contact us for more information.
You will be at the surgery center for approximately 2-3 hours. The surgery itself typically takes 10-20 minutes.
You will be discharged to home the day of surgery. You will have a follow up appointment the day after surgery and another appointment 1 week to 1 month after based on your healing.
Only if cataracts are present in both eyes. Cataract surgery in one eye only is often performed. If both eyes have cataracts, are they done at the same time? Both eyes are done within 2-4 weeks of each other but can be farther apart in time.
It will be done at one of these surgery centers: Turks Head in West Chester or Vision One in Exton.
Local or topical anesthesia is used, making it a typically painless surgery.
Vision should be improved on your first day. Many patients can return to normal activities or work within a few days.
You will need to use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops for 3 weeks. Detailed instructions will be given to you.
Cataract surgery is designed to decrease your dependence, however, patients may still require glasses or contacts for best vision.
Conventional cataract surgery with a standard, single-focus IOL is covered by insurance. You are responsible to pay for any deductibles and co-pays dictated by your insurance.
Insurance will cover a standard lens implant and testing only. Advanced lens implants (toric, multifocal, etc) and advanced testing are not covered by insurance and are the responsibility of the patient.
Enhance Your Vision Today!
We are always accepting new patients. If you would like to schedule anything from a general eye exam to a consultation with a specialist, please do not hesitate to reach out to us. Our staff look forward to assisting you in achieving your ideal vision.
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