Cataract FAQs

Cataract FAQs2019-10-08T16:34:24-05:00

Frequently Asked Questions: Cataracts

What are cataracts?2017-04-20T01:28:51-05:00



What are the symptoms of cataracts?2018-06-12T13:02:04-05:00


  • Having blurry vision
  • Seeing double (when you see two images instead of one)
  • Being extra sensitive to light
  • Seeing bright colors as faded or yellow instead
What causes cataracts?2018-06-12T13:01:22-05:00

Most cataracts are caused by the natural aging of the eye. Cataracts can form from the following as well:

  • Family history
  • Medical problems, such as diabetes
  • Eye injuries
  • Medications, such as prednisone
  • Long-term, unprotected exposure to sunlight
  • Previous eye surgery
How fast can a cataract develop?2018-06-12T13:01:32-05:00

How fast a cataract will develop varies by individual and may even be different between the two eyes of an individual. However, most age-related cataracts develop over a period of years. Cataracts that are not age-related may progress rapidly. It is not possible to predict how quickly cataracts will develop in any person.

How are cataracts treated?2018-06-12T13:01:42-05:00

Surgery is the only way for a cataract to be removed. If the cataract is not bothering you, surgery may not be needed. A change in your glasses prescription may be helpful.

Medications, exercises or dietary supplements have not been shown to prevent or cure cataracts.

What can I expect from cataract surgery?2018-06-12T13:01:51-05:00

Over 1.8 million people in the United States have cataract surgery each year. Of those surgeries, over 95% are performed with no complications.

Cataract surgery is usually performed under local or topical anesthesia as an outpatient procedure. The cataract or cloudy lens is removed from the eye. In the majority of cases, the lens is replaced with an intraocular lens implant and the focusing power of the eye is restored.

The surgery is performed using a microscope, small instruments and other modern technology.

Improved vision is a result of over 95% of cataract surgeries. It is important, however, to understand that complications can occur during or after surgery. If you are concerned or have a problem, please contact your surgeon as soon as possible.

Will I need glasses after cataract surgery?2018-06-12T13:02:15-05:00

Traditionally, most intraocular lens implants placed during cataract surgery have allowed for good vision only at a distance and do not provide a “full range” of functional vision. In this case, patients are still required glasses for reading, computer work and other intermediate and near vision activities. Advanced technology now offers multifocal and accommodative intraocular lenses that give patients a full range of quality vision at near, intermediate and distance, and greatly increases their independence from glasses or contact lenses after cataract surgery. Your surgeon will assess whether you are a candidate for this new technology and will discuss your options.

Cataracts: An Overview

Information on cataracts and cataract surgery