Cataracts

Patients who delay cataract surgery often find the world is a dull and hazy place. Images blur, colors fade and vision slowly dims. These effects have real consequences for the quality of life, and even the safety, of individuals whose cataracts have become advanced. Here, Bay Area ophthalmologist Mark Mandel, MD reviews some of the challenges presented by this limiting condition.

Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most routine procedures performed today. Modern technology, such as the use of the LenSx laser, has improved the accuracy and precision of parts of the surgical procedure and provides exceptional treatment outcomes.

According to the American Academy of Ophthalmology, approximately 25 million Americans have cataracts, which is the clouding of the eye’s naturally clear lens. Over time, the clouded vision caused by cataracts worsens and if left untreated, can lead to blindness.

If you are considering cataract surgery, you are likely aware of the positive effects the surgical procedure can have on your everyday life. By restoring clear vision and sharp focus, cataract surgery can make everyday activities like reading text messages easier, computer work more comfortable and driving safer. Now a recent study has found that cataract surgery may improve mental function.

Currently, no medication or eyedrop has been shown to stop or reverse the formation or cataracts. The only way to treat a cataract is by surgically removing the eye’s natural lens and replacing it with an artificial lens.

Traditionally, cataracts have been considered a normal part of getting older. With advancing age, the proteins that make up the lens can clump together, creating cloudy areas that dull or blur vision. According to the National Eye Institute, more than half of all Americans have had a cataract or had cataract surgery by the age of 80. However, not all cataracts develop due to age-related changes inside the eye. There are other factors, including lifestyle and environmental factors, that may contribute to the early onset of cataracts. To help shed light on the issue, Mark Mandel, MD, discusses some of the factors that may expedite the formation of cataracts.

If blurry vision from cataracts is affecting your quality of life, it might be time to pursue cataract surgery. After gathering a list of reputable surgeons in your area and narrowing it down to a few, you should meet with them to learn more about the surgery and their approach. Ultimately, you want to select a doctor that answers all of your questions and makes you feel completely comfortable. To guide you during your

Cataract surgery can improve vision and quality of life — but can it also help you live a longer life? According to a new study, the answer is yes. Below, Mark Mandel, MD, of Optima Eye breaks down the study in more detail. 

According to the National Eye Institute, about half of Americans have a cataract or have had a cataract by the age of 75. Since cataracts are so common in older adults, Bay Area laser eye surgeon Mark Mandel, MD, thought it would be helpful to blog about some of the telltale warning signs.