Cataracts

What is a cataract?

A cataract is the clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye, which prevents light from entering the eye and
properly focusing on the retina.

Cataracts account for over 48% of the world’s correctable blindness.

What ages are most affected by cataracts?

42%

AGES 52 TO 64

60%

AGES 65 TO 74

91%

AGES 75 TO 85

What causes cataracts?

Researchers believe there are several causes of cataracts:

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

Common symptoms of a cataract include:

These symptoms may indicate other eye problems that may also result in blindness if left untreated.  If you have any of these symptoms, please schedule an appointment with Thomas Eye Group immediately for a complete eye examination.

Cataract surgery treatment

Thomas Eye Group offers several treatment packages for cataract surgery. Our doctors and surgery counselors will help you choose the option that best fits your needs.

Astigmatic Evaluation

Recommended for all patients considering cataract surgery. This evaluation, which is not covered by Medicare or private insurance, helps us determine your surgical options, including the type of lens implants that could be offered to you.

Vision Plus Package - Monovision

Designed for patients who wish to limit the use of glasses for distance and near. Patients may still need glasses in certain settings such as poor light, fine print, or at night. This package includes special testing and astigmatic evaluation, contact lens trial, standard IOL, and standard cataract follow-up regimen.

Custom Vision Package

Designed for individuals with astigmatism who wish to perform tasks such as driving without the aid of glasses. Glasses may still be needed for intermediate and near activities. This package includes special testing with astigmatic evaluation, cataract laser surgery with astigmatic correction using a Toric lens, and standard cataract follow-up regimen. LASIK® touch up is included, if necessary.

Standard Vision Package

Designed for patients who wish to achieve good distance and near vision with the aid of glasses. Includes standard testing, standard monofocal lens, and standard cataract follow-up regimen.

Vision Plus Package

Designed for individuals with mild astigmatism who wish to perform tasks such as driving without the aid of glasses. Glasses may be needed for intermediate and near activities. This package includes monovision if desired, as well as special testing and astigmatic evaluation, standard IOL with astigmatism correction using the cataract laser, and standard cataract follow-up regimen.

Advanced Vision Package

Designed for individuals that want the best possible expanded range of near and distance without the aid of glasses most of the time. This package includes special testing with astigmatic evaluation. Laser cataract surgery using an advanced multifocal lens or extended vision lens implant may include astigmatism correction. LASIK® touch up is included, if necessary.

Prices subject to change. Not all services are covered by insurance. Certain options are considered an upgrade and an additional cost to the standard vision package. Ask your surgery counselor at Thomas Eye Group for the latest pricing.

What types of cataract surgery are available?

Cataract Surgery - Phacoemulsification​: Modern cataract surgery is routinely performed with small incision micro-surgery through a process known as phacoemulsification. The cataract removal and surgical processes are done using the smallest possible incision and removal of the lens material is accomplished using an ultrasonic probe.

Cataract Surgery - Phacoemulsification

Modern cataract surgery is routinely performed with small incision micro-surgery through a process known as phacoemulsification. The cataract removal and surgical processes are done using the smallest possible incision and removal of the lens material is accomplished using an ultrasonic probe.

Laser Cataract Surgery

Thomas Eye Group proudly offers the FDA-approved CATALYS™ Precision Laser System. The CATALYS™ advanced 3D imaging technology builds a 3D map of each eye and tailors the treatment to that map. This enables our surgeons to create a customized treatment plan that matches the uniqueness of each eye and is ten times more precise than manual surgery.

Thomas Eye Group surgeons use CATALYS™ to create a circular opening for accessing and removing the cataract. CATALYS™ then softens and breaks up the hard cataract into tiny pieces, allowing for gentler, easier cataract removal.

Thomas Eye Group Laser Cataract Surgery​
Thomas Eye Group Intraocular Lens (IOL) Options​

Intraocular Lens (IOL) Options

After the cataract is removed, your surgeon implants an intraocular lens. Patients can choose from a monofocal (to correct either nearsightedness or farsightedness) or premium lens implant (to reduce or eliminate the need for glasses after cataract surgery). Traditional monofocal lenses are covered by Medicare. There is an additional cost to upgrade to premium IOLs.

Intraocular lenses come in a variety of materials and designs, including UV filtering, multifocal (enabling patients to see both at distance and near without the aid of glasses) and accommodating lens implants, which move inside the eye to emulate the natural process of the eye’s crystalline lens. Your doctor will discuss your options with you in your consultation and pre-operative eye exams.

Post-operative care

Most cataract surgery patients obtain better vision within the first 24 hours of the procedure. Itching and mild discomfort are normal and should subside within two days. Some fluid discharge is also common. Your eye may be sensitive to light and touch.

Your doctor will prescribe eye drops to help your eye heal and decrease the risk of infection. To allow your eye to heal, your doctor may advise you to limit physical activities, including:

In most cases, healing will be complete within eight weeks. Your doctor will schedule exams to check on your progress.

Cataracts can be stressful, let us help. Schedule a consultation today!

Thomas Eye Group