“Why do I have cataracts?  My parents didn’t have them until they were in their 80s?”

Cataracts are a normal aging process; everyone eventually gets them if we live long enough.  Think of cataracts as the “gray hair” of the eyes.  Just like some people are bothered with their hair color change while others either don’t mind it or get used to it, cataracts can...

“What is the difference between hyperopia, myopia, astigmatism, and presbyopia?”

These four conditions are referred to as refractive errors.  Did you know that you can have 3 of these four refractive errors at the same time?  The terms describing the various vision conditions can be pretty confusing, especially when you are told that you have more than one of...

“What is involved in the recovery of cataract surgery?”

Cataract surgery is one of the safest medical procedures.  And with the advent of the femtosecond laser, it has become more accurate and the recovery is quicker than ever before.  In fact, over 90% of patients at SightTrust Eye Institute opt to have both eyes treated on the same...

“Are there any alternatives to cataract surgery?”

Cataracts are an inevitable part of life.  They usually begin developing in the 50s, and if we live long enough we will ultimately need them removed.  Fortunately, cataract surgery is an amazing procedure:  we can replace the “worn out” lens with an implant that can provide excellent distance and...

“What are my options if I have astigmatism?”

Cataract surgery is one of the most successful procedures.  It has become so precise over the years that it is now being used as a method to permanently correct vision.  People with nearsightedness, farsightedness, and/or presbyopia (the need to wear reading glasses) can have this procedure as an alternative...

“My doctor told me I am not a candidate for LASIK.  Do I have any other options?”

LASIK is a terrific way to decrease your need for glasses.  The procedure helps reshape the cornea – the front window of the eye – in order to focus the vision for better distance.  People over the age of 40 who need reading glasses may choose to have one...

“How Long Does Cataract and Lens Replacement Surgery Take?”

Cataract surgery is quick and painless.  Patients hear that statement regularly and doctors assume it provides all the reassurance they need.  To be sure, there is something to be said about a procedure that can be performed in a short time.  A fast treatment suggests little risk and downtime....

“What will my restrictions be after surgery, and when can I go back to work?”

Laser cataract and refractive lens procedures are safe and painless, and usually have little downtime.  Vision may be “foggy” for the first day or so, but most people can resume the majority of their daily activities almost immediately.  In fact, people are usually able to get back to work...

“I still work 5 days a week, and I don’t want to take too much time off. How long is the downtime after cataract surgery?”

Cataract and refractive lens surgery are two ways to permanently correct your vision.  Both treatments replace the natural lens with one that can free you from reading and distance glasses.  The procedures are fast – typically lasting 10 minutes or less per eye – and there is little downtime. ...

“I had cataract surgery in another country, and I am unhappy with my vision. I was told by other doctors that the lens is ‘acrylic’ and cannot be removed. Is this true?”

Did you know that intraocular lens implants (IOLs) can be replaced?  While the intent of cataract surgery is to remove the natural lens and insert a permanent IOL, circumstances may arise where a different IOL would be desirable.  Examples include: the visual result after surgery not being what was...