Cataract Surgery

There has been a rapid evolution in cataract treatment over the past few years, which translates to added patient benefits, including improved visual outcomes and faster recoveries. Phaco-emulsification is a quick outpatient procedure that corrects vision with little to no discomfort and rapid return to normal activities. It requires a micro incision and breaks up the cataract with ultrasound energy. Next, a soft, flexible synthetic intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted into the eye. There is also a premium lens option to provide distant, near and intermediate vision. In most cases, the incision is so small that the eye heals rapidly. Eye drops are used before and after cataract surgery, and the patient is asked to refrain from swimming or water activity for several days. At Norwich Ophthalmology Group, we  perform the most modern no stitch, no injection, no patch cataract surgery. We also offer Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery.

What is a Cataract?

Cataracts are an opacity or clouding of the normally crystalline lens of the eye, caused by the natural aging process, metabolic changes, injury, various forms of radiation, toxic chemicals and certain drugs. The leading cause of vision loss among adults age 60 or older, cataracts impair vision, making everyday activities increasingly difficult.

In simple terms, a cataract is usually part of the normal aging process that changes the natural, clear lens of the eye into a cloudy, opaque structure that inhibits or diminishes the passage of light to the retina. The condition can be compared to a frosted or foggy window.

Symptoms:

Patients with cataracts often experience the following symptoms:

  1. ‍Blurring of vision.
  2. Glare, or sensitivity to light.
  3. Double vision in one eye.
  4. Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription. Difficulty in reading in low light. Declining night vision.
  5. Fading or yellowing of colors.

Detection

Adults over the age of 40 should schedule routine eye examinations on an annual basis to determine whether cataracts or other eye disorders are present. A thorough examination by an ophthalmologist or qualified eye care professional usually includes:

  1. ‍A visual acuity test to measure clarity at various distances.
  2. Pupil dilation to examine the lens and retina for other eye problems
  3. Tonometry, a standard procedure to measure fluid pressure inside the eye.

Safe Surgery; Speedy Recovery:

Not long ago, cataract surgery required a hospital stay and was usually postponed as long as possible. Today, the procedure is performed on an out-patient basis and takes only a few minutes. Patients are free to return home to rest in comfort and avoid the inconvenience and expense of a hospital stay. In most cases, daily activities such as driving and reading can be resumed almost immediately.

During the surgery, the cloudy lens is removed from the eye. In most cases, the focusing power of the natural lens is restored by replacing it with a permanent intraocular lens implant.

Cataract surgery is considered one of the most popular and highly successful procedures, with improved vision occurring in over 90 percent of cases. In fact, a study by the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery recently reported that more than 98 percent of cataract patients had their vision successfully improved following surgery. Many patients report vision that is even better than before they developed cataracts. Results are permanent; once removed, cataracts will not reoccur.

Monofocal Lenses

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Extended Depth of Focus Lenses

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Multifocal Lenses

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Toric Lenses

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Words from our patients

Our Patient Testimonials

“I always waited for this opportunity to thank you for getting me back my eyesight. I must admit to the fact that I was  against the thought of eye surgery. But now, I have my full faith in you. After the procedure, I am very confident with the improvements I have noticed recently. Now I can see fine details without my glasses, along with the drastic differences in low light. I started comparing my eyes to check the difference, and I am truly mesmerized. Now, I am very anxious to go through the same process for my other eye. I never thought about the healing process, but I am really pleased with the fact that it was just a mild annoyance. I would love to recommend your services to everyone I meet.”

– K. Aubin

“The best decision I ever made in my life, was  choosing LASIK eye surgery with Norwich Ophthalmology. The entire procedure was absolutely painless and very simple, which kept me spellbound. Not to mention, it was quite fast too. The doctors along with the staff were very friendly in nature and very professional. It made me feel secure and comfortable, to be treated by such reliable hands. If I ever have to go for another round of eye surgery, I will not think twice before choosing their services. I am in love with my new life without glasses and my 20/15 vision!”

– Ben Barney

My heartiest thanks for giving my sight back. It feels wonderful without glasses, for the first time in my life. I was quite nervous when you suggested  two different options for my eyes, Restor and Rezoom. But you were absolutely right! Now I can watch TV for long hours, go for a drive, use my computer and even read books, without ever wearing my glasses.

– M. Belisle