Frequently Asked Cataract Questions

1) What is a cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens in the eye which affects vision. Most cataracts are related to aging.

2) What are the symptoms of a cataract?
 cloudy or blurry vision
 colors seem faded
 glare or a halo around lights
 Frequent prescription changes to eye glasses

3) How is a cataract detected?
Cataract is detected through a comprehensive eye exam that includes a visual acuity test, a dilated eye exam, and tonometry(an instrument measures the pressure inside the eye).

4) When should I have cataract surgery?
A cataract needs to be removed when vision loss interferes with your daily activities, such as driving, reading, or watching TV. You and your ophthalmologist can make this decision together. Once you understand the benefits and risks of surgery, you can make an informed decision about whether cataract surgery is right for you.

5) What happens to the lens?
The natural lens is surgically removed, it usually is replaced by an artificial lens, called an intraocular lens, or an IOL.

Unlike many years ago, today you have different lens options to choose from. Lens selection can be frustrating because of these multiple options. Two important factors to consider when choosing your artificial lens; type and power of the lens. Personal factors to consider when choosing your lens:

 Daily activities that you would like to do without glasses or contacts is possible?
 Can you afford the higher lens option?
 How far would you like to see most clearly without glasses or contacts?

Lens options:

Monofocal Lens – An intraocular (inside the eye) lens implant that allows clear vision at one specific distance.

Monovision- A compromise between far and near vision in which one eye is fully corrected for distance and the other eye is corrected for seeing up close.

Toric Lens- An intraocular lens implant that is designed to correct astigmatism.

Multifocal Lens- An intraocular lens implant, like a bifocal or trifocal lens in your glasses, that provide clarity of vision at more than one distance.

Symfony Lens- The U.S. Food and Drug Administration in July of 2016 approved the first intraocular lens that provides cataract patients with an extended depth-of-focus, which helps improve their sharpness of vision at near, intermediate and far distances.

With today’s technology, your surgeon can safely remove your cataract and implant a replacement lens to restore your vision.

For more information on cataract surgery or lenses visit or call toll-free (888) 570-5789.