Blindness due to cataracts is possible if cataracts treatment is not sought. Over time, cataracts will continue to develop and, eventually, lead to reduced vision and, potentially, blindness. However, unlike other forms of blindness that result in permanent vision loss, it is possible to restore vision with laser vision surgery.
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts are a condition of the eye that occurs in most adults over the age of 40 at some point in their lives. Cataracts occur in the lens of the eye that causes a breakdown of proteins. As this occurs, a small white dot will develop in the eye.
As the cataracts progress, the white dot will gradually become larger and larger, until it completely covers the pupil, which is the dark part of the eye we use for vision. Vision will start to become blurry. Other vision problems that develop from cataracts include:
- Double Vision
- Foggy/Cloudy Vision
- Dulling of Colors
- Light Sensitivity
- Poor Night Vision
Initially, the changes in vision are minor and do not warrant drastic treatment methods. By the time most people are in their 60s and 70s, however, cataracts can greatly affect their vision and even leave them blind in one or both eyes.
When Is the Best Time for Cataracts Treatment?
It is important to maintain regular visits to your ophthalmologist so that any sudden changes in vision can be addressed. Cataracts often start developing at different times, so the rate of progression from one eye to another does vary.
Furthermore, there are several different types of cataracts, including:
- Cortical Cataracts
- Congenital cataracts
- Posterior Subcapsular Cataract
- Nuclear Cataracts
The type of cataracts you have will also develop differently and progress at different rates. Your ophthalmologist will monitor the condition of your cataracts to help determine the appropriate cataracts treatment plan.
Eventually, you will want to consider cataracts surgery, as this laser eye surgery can help restore most of the vision you lost due to cataracts. When will you need surgery? It will depend on the progression of your cataracts.
Some people may need surgery in one eye long before the other. Other people will wait until the vision in both eyes has gotten so bad that they are either partially blind or almost fully blind.
Yet, if you want to be able to read, drive, and enjoy activities and tasks without vision impairments, then you should consider cataracts surgery, as it is needed for each individual eye.
Is Cataracts Surgery Painful?
Cataracts surgery uses the latest laser and computer technologies for a quick, fast, and painless experience. It is one of the most common surgeries performed today. While you do need to be awake during the procedure, you will not feel any pain as it is being performed.
How Is Vision Restored After Cataracts Surgery?
During the surgery, laser incisions are made in the eye lens where the cataracts are located. The cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an Intraocular Lens (IOL). Think of the IOL as a permanent contact lens that never has to be removed.
Most people notice improved vision with 24 to 48 hours of their surgery. Some people may still need glasses to help improve the focus of the IOLs to see clearly. The eye does heal quickly, and most people are fully recovered and can return to most tasks within a few weeks.
For further information about cataracts treatment and surgery, please feel free to contact ADV Vision Centers at (805) 987-5300 to schedule a consultation appointment today! We have advanced laser and cataract centers in San Luis Obispo, Paso Robles, and Santa Maria, CA.