Over 1.1 billion people worldwide live with vision loss, with cataracts being a major cause of preventable blindness. For those over 50, cataracts account for millions of cases of blindness and severe visual impairment each year. While cataract surgery is life-changing, many wonder about its long-term outcomes and if cataracts can return.
At Everett & Hurite, we specialize in advanced cataract care, helping patients in Pittsburgh, PA achieve clear vision and a better quality of life. From diagnosis to surgery, our skilled team provides personalized, compassionate care every step of the way. Schedule your appointment today to take the first step toward better vision.
Keep reading to learn the truth behind cataract surgery and what you can expect when it comes to lasting clear vision.
Understanding Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is a highly effective procedure designed to restore clear vision by addressing the effects of cataracts. Cataracts occur when the natural lens of the eye becomes clouded, obstructing light from passing through and making it difficult to see clearly. This procedure replaces the damaged lens and improves vision significantly.
Here's how it works:
- The clouded natural lens, known as the cataract, is removed from the eye.
- An artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted to replace the removed lens.
- This IOL allows light to pass through properly, restoring clear vision.
Cataract surgery is a quick outpatient procedure, with most patients experiencing only mild discomfort. Cataract surgery recovery generally begins within a day or two, and vision improvement is often noticeable within the first week.
For those with congenital cataracts or challenging cataract symptoms like blurry vision or halos around lights, this procedure can offer profound improvements in quality of life.
Learn more in our video about what cataracts are and how they're treated.
Why Cataracts Cannot Return
One of the most reassuring facts about cataract surgery is that cataracts cannot grow back. This is due to the nature of the procedure and the materials used to restore your vision.
- The natural lens is completely removed: During surgery, the clouded natural lens that causes blurry vision and other symptoms is carefully taken out. In other words, once removed, the root cause of the cataract is permanently gone.
- An artificial lens replaces the natural one: To restore vision, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted in place of the removed natural lens. These lenses are made from materials like acrylic or silicone, which are designed to remain clear and durable for life. Unlike your natural lens, this artificial lens cannot form cataracts.
This combination of removing the original cataract and replacing it with an artificial lens ensures that the treated eye will remain free of cataracts in the future, offering a lasting solution that improves not only vision but also quality of life.
What Is Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO)?
Although cataracts themselves cannot return, some patients may experience a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO), often referred to as a 'secondary cataract.' This happens when the lens capsule, a thin membrane left in the eye to support the artificial lens, becomes cloudy.
Common Symptoms of PCO
- Blurry vision resembling cataract symptoms
- Dull or dim vision
- Problems with light or glare
While PCO can mimic cataract-related issues, it is not the same condition and is both fixable and preventable with proper monitoring and treatment by your eye doctor.
PCO Risk Factors
Some individuals may be at an increased risk for developing PCO, including those who:
- Have diabetes
- Aging
- Previous eye conditions
- High prescription strength prior to cataract surgery
- Underwent cataract surgery at a young age
- Have other eye conditions such as uveitis or retinitis pigmentosa
- Have a family history of PCO
If you fall into any of these risk categories, it is important to be proactive in monitoring for signs of PCO and discussing preventive measures with your eye doctor.
Preventing PCO
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent PCO, there are steps that can be taken to reduce the likelihood of developing this condition. These include:
- Choosing an experienced surgeon for cataract surgery
- Discussing the possibility of using a different type of intraocular lens (IOL), such as a toric or multifocal lens, which may have a lower risk of causing PCO
- Following post-operative instructions from your surgeon carefully, including using prescribed eye drops and attending follow-up appointments
- Avoiding activities that could put pressure on the eye, such as rubbing or pressing on it
- Maintaining good overall eye health by regularly visiting your eye doctor for check-ups and addressing any other underlying conditions that may affect your eyes
It is important to remember that while PCO can occur after cataract surgery, it is a highly treatable condition. With proper care and attention, you can prevent or effectively manage PCO and continue enjoying clear vision.
How Everett & Hurite Can Help?
At Everett & Hurites, cataract care is about more than just improving vision; it's about helping you regain your quality of life with personalized solutions tailored to your needs. Our team of experienced ophthalmologists specializes in cataract diagnosis and treatment, offering expert care every step of the way—from evaluation to post-surgical support.
When it comes to cataract surgery, we provide advanced surgical treatments to deliver effective results. We offer two primary procedures:
- Phacoemulsification: The most common method, where ultrasound waves are used to break up the cataract, allowing the cloudy lens to be removed and replaced with a clear artificial implant.
- Extracapsular Cataract Extraction: A technique designed for more advanced cataracts, involving the removal of the lens to make way for a new artificial lens.
You also have access to a variety of lens implant options to match your unique vision needs. Options include:
- Monofocal Lenses: Correct vision at a single distance, ideal if you’re comfortable with some use of glasses.
- Multifocal Lenses: Reduce dependence on glasses by correcting both near and distance vision.
- Toric Lenses: Address astigmatism while improving overall vision quality.
We’ll work with you to decide which lens option best fits your lifestyle and visual goals through thorough evaluation and discussion.
If you’re considering cataract surgery, we ensure each eye is individually and carefully evaluated to create the optimal surgical plan. After surgery, we provide comprehensive follow-up care, including prescribing medications to support proper healing and reduce risks like infection.
If cataracts are affecting your vision and daily life, we are ready to help. Schedule a consultation today.
When to See Your Eye Doctor Post-Surgery
Proper care after cataract surgery is key to successful recovery. Keeping up with scheduled follow-up visits and monitoring your eye health can prevent complications.
Symptoms to Watch For:
- Blurry vision that persists: Temporary blurriness is normal, but if it doesn’t improve, it should be checked.
- Redness or irritation: Prolonged discomfort, swelling, or redness may need attention.
- Vision changes: Loss of clarity, glare, halos, or other disruptions can signal a problem.
- Pain that continues or worsens: Lingering or severe pain is never typical and should be addressed immediately.
If you notice any of these issues, contact our practice promptly. Timely action can make all the difference in your recovery.
Long-Term Eye Health After Surgery
In addition to being aware of potential warning signs, there are also proactive steps you can take to maintain the health of your eyes. Here are a few tips to keep in mind:
- Get regular eye exams: Even if you currently have good vision, it's important to get regular check-ups with an eye doctor. This can help catch any potential problems early on.
- Protect your eyes from UV rays: Wearing sunglasses that block 100% of UVA and UVB rays can help protect your eyes from sun damage.
- Take breaks when using screens: Staring at a computer or phone screen for extended periods of time can strain your eyes. Make sure to take breaks every 20 minutes or so.
- Eat a healthy diet: Eating foods rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can help keep your eyes healthy.
- Quit smoking: Smoking can increase your risk of developing eye diseases such as cataracts and macular degeneration.
At Everett & Hurite, we believe in fostering ongoing communication and care to support your vision health long-term.
Discover Expert Cataract Care at Everett & Hurite
Cataract surgery provides a permanent solution to cloudy vision, and while some patients may experience PCO, it is treatable with proper care. Everett & Hurite is dedicated to guiding you every step of the way to ensure a lasting, clear vision.
Schedule your appointment with us today to explore advanced cataract care and learn how we can support your long-term eye health.
