CATARACT SURGERY - New Jersey
Corneal Associates of New Jersey
LASIK, Cataract Surgery, Cornea Specialists
About Cataract Surgery
It might surprise you to know that cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed Medicare reimbursed surgical procedures performed in the United States today. Developing cataracts is a natural part of aging. Everyone will get cataracts if they live long enough.
Since cataract surgery may be a part of your future, it's important to become familiar with the recent technological breakthroughs that have transformed this surgery from a clumsy and archaic procedure to a miraculous, life-altering experience. We encourage you to learn about your options.
Cataract surgery is completely different from LASIK eye surgery, in that lasers are not used to remove cataracts. While not all cataract surgeons are knowledgeable about the latest developments and might not offer premium lens implants, Corneal Associates of New Jersey always stays at the forefront of the latest technological advancements in cataract surgery. When you place your precious eye care with us, you may be sure of receiving the most advanced and innovative techniques and procedures available for your cataract surgery.
What are Cataracts?
Your eye has a natural lens that for most of your life works as a camera to help focus reflected light images on the nerve center of the eye, called the "retina". As we age, this naturally clear crystalline lens gradually hardens and becomes opacified, becoming white and cloudy. The visual affect has been described like “looking through wax paper”. Cataracts can be easily seen in at maturation, or they may be a diagnosed in the early stages of development. In either case cataract removal is required for you to see clearly again.
Phacoemulsification
The modern day cataract surgery technique is routinely performed with small incision micro-surgery through a process known as "phacoemulsification".
The cataract removal and surgical process is done through the smallest possible incision, and removal of the lens material is accomplished using an ultrasonic probe.
The hardened cataract is removed and a man-made intraocular lens is used as a replacement.
After the eye has been cleaned and proper dilation of the pupil has been achieved, your eye surgeon makes a tiny incision while looking through a highly specialized microscope. A micro-incision about the size of 3 millimeters is created at the junction of the cornea and the white part of the eye, known as the sclera. The lens capsule is then opened and the ultrasonic probe is inserted so that the cataract can be removed. The ultrasonic probe pulverizes the cataract and suctions out the cataract material.
After the cataract is removed the surgeon is ready to implant a man-made intraocular lens. This is a crucial point of understanding for patients. Patients can either have a monofocal Medicare-approved lens, which will only correct vision for one distance, or they can opt to upgrade to a premium Multifocal lens implant that can reduce or eliminate their need for glasses after cataract surgery. *Please see our section below regarding lens implant options for more information about the tremendous lifestyle advantages that the premium lens implants offer.
The intraocular lens is a foldable lens that slides through a tube like a fruit roll-up and unfolds in the capsular bag. The surgeon may center the new lens with the lens capsule if necessary. Once the lens is centered, the surgery is complete. In most cases, no stitches are required to seal the incision due specifically to the 3 mm size. This is why it is called micro-surgery by many eye doctors.
Recovering from Cataract Surgery
Recovery from cataract surgery is generally quick. The average patient achieves drastically better vision within the first 24 hours of the procedure. Your eye doctor will prescribe eye medications in the form of drops, which will need to be taken several times per day. Please consult your ophthalmologist for a specific drop protocol for the best recovery. Abstain from rigorous activities or sports for the first few weeks after surgery. Eye shields will be given after surgery to prevent the rubbing or bumping of your eyes.
Premium Lens Implants for Cataract Surgery
Modern day lens implants for cataract surgery have been significantly improved over the last few years. Prior to the advent of premium lens implants or multifocal IOLs, cataract surgery patients had one option. This option was a monofocal lens implant, which could only correct vision at one distance. Now, cataract surgery patients have the options of multifocal and accommodating lens implants that can correct vision at near, far and intermediate distances.
Some cataract surgery patients that receive multifocal or accommodating lens implants can eliminate glasses from their lifestyle. These intraocular lens come in a variety of materials and designs. Your Corneal Associates cataract surgeon will be able to advise you on what type of lens would be best for your unique visual situation.
It is important for cataract surgery patients to realize that while cataract surgery frequently results in a reduced dependency on eyeglasses, such results cannot be guaranteed to eliminate this need totally. Dr. Perl is happy to discuss the latest technological advances in cataract surgery and the potential lifestyle benefits these might provide.
Cataract Surgery - New Jersey
Reduce or eliminate your need for glasses and contacts - take your vision beyond glasses, beyond contacts, possibly beyond 20/20! Corneal Associates of New Jersey is here for you, offering complete and unbiased information and advice to help you choose the ideal treatment for your situation, resulting in your BEST POSSIBLE VISION. Call now for you appointment:
(973) 736-1313
