Cataract Surgery
Lowcountry Eye Specialists
Ophthalmologists located in Ladson, SC
About 2 million Americans undergo cataract surgery each year. This effective outpatient procedure can restore your vision and reduce the risk of more serious complications. At Lowcountry Eye Specialists, our board-certified ophthalmologists have years of experience performing cataract surgery. To make an appointment at the practice in Ladson, South Carolina, call the office or book one online today.
Cataract Surgery Q & A
What is cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery removes a damaged lens from your eye and replaces it with an artificial one. Specifically, it’s a treatment for cataracts –– clumps of proteins that cause the lens of your eye to become cloudy. Without intervention and treatment, cataracts result in vision loss and ultimately blindness.
Cataract surgery has a proven record of success. Research shows that 95% of people who undergo the procedure experience a significant improvement in their vision.
Who can benefit from cataract surgery?
Anyone who develops cataracts can benefit from cataract surgery. Cataracts develop slowly over an extended period, so you might not experience symptoms right away.
Even so, if you have difficulty performing routine activities like driving, reading, or working with hand tools, make an appointment with the team at Lowcountry Eye Specialists. That’s especially true if you experience:
- Blurry vision
- Poor night vision
- Double vision
- Halos around lights
- Increased sensitivity to glare
- A sensation of “film” in your eyes
Following a comprehensive eye exam, your provider can make treatment recommendations.
What happens during a cataract surgery consultation?
At Lowcountry Eye Specialists, a cataract surgery consultation begins with a review of your ocular health history, a discussion of your symptoms, and a thorough eye exam. Your provider uses several different tests, as well as specialized lenses and lights, to determine the type, size, and location of your cataract.
Usually, the team recommends conservative treatments first. If your symptoms persist or get worse, you’re likely a candidate for cataract surgery.
What does cataract surgery involve?
Cataract surgery is done as an outpatient procedure at a surgery center. The surgery usually takes about 10 minutes.
On the day of the procedure, you lie down on an exam table, and your provider administers a local anesthetic and IV sedation. When the anesthesia sets in, your provider makes a small incision in your eye and carefully removes the cloudy lens.
Then, they replace your natural lens with an intraocular lens (IOL) implant. The IOL restores your vision, allowing you to see clearly.
Don’t wait to request a cataract surgery consultation at Lowcountry Eye Specialists. To make an appointment, call the office or request an appointment online today.