While a comprehensive eye examination can determine for certain if you have a cataract forming, there are a number of signs and symptoms that may indicate a cataract.

 

 

• Gradual blurring or hazy vision where colors seem yellowed
• A tendency to become more nearsighted because of increasing density of lens
• Double vision in one eye only
• A gradual loss of color vision
• The feeling of having a film over the eyes
• An increased sensitivity to glare, especially at night

Today, the surgery is an outpatient procedure, utilizing a clear cornea incision and phacoemulsification with no needle and no stitches. Phacoemulsification is a technique in which a small ultrasonic probe is used to break the cataract into very tiny pieces allowing it to be gently vacuumed from the eye.

A short acting IV sedation and topical anesthesia are usually all that is necessary to keep the patient comfortable and pain free during the surgery.

A small foldable intraocular lens is inserted inserted, usually less than 3 millimeters, and is unfolded in place of the natural lens. Most patients are able to have a "self sealing" incision and no sutures are required.