Finding out you have cataracts is understandably concerning; you might be wondering if your vision will get worse and impact the way you live. Fortunately, cataracts are a normal part of aging; about 37% of adults have them by age 70 and that number continues to rise with each year. Surgery is often recommended to patients with cataracts at Chelsea Eye Ophthalmology in New York City, NY. To learn more about this helpful procedure, read on.
What are cataracts?
The eyes have several different structures that serve different purposes. The lens, a flexible, curved section of tissue, is one of the most important; it helps to focus on the light and images you see. If a cataract forms, it's because too much of a natural protein contained within the lens has collected in one area. The overall effect of cataracts can make it appear as though you're looking through fog or a dusty window. It can also cause double vision, dull certain colors, or produce a halo effect around lights. Noticeable cataracts primary develop in people 60 and over, although people in their 40's and 50's may have small cataracts and not realize it.
How can cataract surgery help?
Your New York ophthalmologist will typically only recommend cataract surgery to patients whose daily activities, such as reading and driving, are affected by cataracts. If you meet the criteria, your natural lens will be removed during a brief outpatient surgical procedure and replaced with an artificial lens that will restore your vision. Cataract surgery is very safe and extremely common, with over three million procedures performed in the United States each year. Within a few weeks, your eye will be completely healed and you'll be seeing the world clearly again!
If you have further questions, or you've noticed vision changes that haven't improved in a few days' time, contact Chelsea Eye Ophthalmology in New York City, NY, to schedule an examination with one of our skilled eye doctors today!