How Does Laser Cataract Surgery Differ from Traditional Cataract Surgery?

Are you considering cataract surgery to remove cataracts and restore your vision? Do you want to enjoy a safer, more precise procedure with advanced surgical technology?

Laser cataract surgery could be right for you. Eye doctors are calling this procedure “the next evolution in cataract surgery”, modernizing cataract treatment with state-of-the-art technology.

Keep reading to learn more about how laser cataract surgery differs from traditional cataract surgery.

What are Cataracts?

Cataracts are a common eye condition where the proteins in the natural lens break down and form clumps that impact your vision. Signs of cataracts may include:

  • Cloudy, blurry vision
  • Poor night vision
  • Light sensitivity
  • Needing frequent prescription changes
  • Duller, faded vision
  • Halos and glares

Your eye doctor at Berg Feinfield Vision Correction can diagnose cataracts during a comprehensive eye exam. Based on how far they have progressed, they may recommend frequent monitoring, a higher prescription, or scheduling cataract surgery.

Cataract surgery is the only way to restore your vision from cataracts and prevent them from returning in the future. During the procedure, your cataract surgeon will make a small incision in your cornea to access the natural lens of the eye.

Then, they will use ultrasound waves to break up the cataract-affected lens and suction it out. The natural lens will be replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL), which cannot develop cataracts and restores clear vision.

What is Laser Cataract Surgery?

Rather than using traditional surgical tools, your surgeon at Berg Feinfield Vision Correction may recommend advanced laser cataract surgery using the state-of-the-art LensSx femtosecond laser. This improves precision, accuracy, and safety at every step of the procedure, ensuring the best possible outcome for your eyes.

During the procedure, your cataract surgeon will use an OCT device to produce images of your natural lens. This data is programmed into the laser, automating the precise location, size, and depth of the incisions needed.

This image-guided procedure optimizes the surgical process and applies the latest in cataract surgery technology to enhance your results.

Advanced Cataract Surgery Technology at Berg Feinfield Vision Correction

Along with laser cataract surgery, Berg Feinfield Vision Correction is proud to provide patients with even better outcomes using the ORA WaveTec Optiwave Refractive Analyzer. Measuring the eye’s focusing power during the procedure helps guide IOL implant selection and positioning.

This system helps your surgeon be more precise and accurate when selecting the lens power for all types of lens implants. It’s also especially beneficial for patients with astigmatism who choose toric lenses for cataract surgery, and can assist in the creation of precise limbal relaxing incisions (LRI).

What Will My Vision Be Like After Laser Cataract Surgery?

After cataract surgery, patients typically notice visual improvements within the first few days. Your eye will continue to heal over time, with full recovery taking several weeks to months.

During this time, your vision will keep improving, and you can start enjoying clear, cataract-free eyesight! However, your specific visual outcome will largely depend on the IOL you choose.

Berg Feinfield Vision Correction offers a wide variety of IOLs to suit different vision needs, lifestyles, and budgets, including:

Monofocal

Monofocal IOLs are the standard lenses used in cataract surgery that correct vision at one distance. They are great for patients on a budget as they are typically covered by insurance and Medicare, but they often need to use glasses or contacts to achieve a full range of vision.

Multifocal

Multifocal IOLs like the ReSTOR, Tecnis Symfony, and PanOptix trifocal are excellent choices for patients who have a wide variety of hobbies who want crystal-clear vision at multiple distances, whether they’re knitting, gardening, or playing pickleball.

Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF)

The Vivity IOL is an extended depth of focus (EDOF) lens that provides patients with a wider range of continuous vision. It provides exceptional intermediate clarity, making it a good option for patients who spend a lot of time doing activities like working on the computer.

Accommodating

The Crystalens is an accommodating lens that moves with the natural muscles of your eye to focus at different distances.

Toric

Toric lenses are IOLs made specifically for patients with astigmatism and come in monofocal, multifocal, and EDOF varieties.

Do you want to learn more about restoring your vision with laser cataract surgery? Schedule an appointment at Berg Feinfield Vision Correction in Burbank, CA, today!

How to Prep for Cataract Surgery: A Checklist

Are you planning to undergo cataract surgery to remove your cataracts and improve your vision? Do you want to make sure you are prepared for the procedure?

If you are getting ready for cataract surgery, you are not alone. Approximately three million people in the US undergo cataract surgery annually, making it one of the most commonly performed procedures.

Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can be completed in under an hour. It carries few risks, has a fast recovery time, and can restore clear vision that cataracts have impaired.

To feel more prepared for your procedure, reviewing a checklist of what to expect can be helpful. Keep reading to learn more about how to prep for cataract surgery.

Practice Using Eye Drops Before Cataract Surgery

After your procedure, you will be given antibiotic eyedrops to prevent infection and inflammation. These eye drops are essential for a smooth and speedy recovery.

If you haven’t used eye drops before, it’s a good idea to practice using over-the-counter lubricating eye drops. After practicing, keep these lubricating drops on hand, as they can help soothe your eye if it feels dry or irritated following cataract surgery.

Stop Wearing Contact Lenses Three Days Ahead of Cataract Surgery

You should stop wearing your contact lenses at least three days before cataract surgery to prevent accidental eye irritation. Because eye irritation can affect the outcome of the procedure, any signs of irritation could require your eye doctor to delay your cataract surgery.

Contact lenses can also cause subtle changes to the shape of your cornea, which can affect the accuracy of the measurements of your eye taken to prepare for cataract surgery. You can be sure your eye is ready by wearing your glasses instead.

Arrange a Ride Home from Your Procedure

While you will still be able to see immediately after cataract surgery, you will need to arrange for a friend or loved one to drive you home. Your vision may be blurry for a few hours after the procedure, making driving yourself home unsafe.

At your follow-up appointment the next day, your cataract surgeon at Berg Feinfield Vision Correction will let you know when you can resume driving and other activities. Once your eye has healed completely, they can schedule cataract surgery for the other eye if needed.

Prepare for Your Recovery

While most patients can resume normal activities within a few days of surgery, you will need some time to recover. Planning ahead and being prepared can help ease your recovery.

You can prepare by filling any prescriptions you might need, stocking your pantry with items that are easy to cook and eat, and creating comfortable places for resting. You will need to take it easy for the rest of the day after cataract surgery, which is easier to do when your home is ready.

You can also download some new music or exciting podcasts to listen to while your eye is healing. Who said recovery had to be boring?

Ensure You Have the Proper Eye Protection

After cataract surgery, your eye may be extra sensitive to bright lights and should be shielded from sunlight. You can protect your eye by purchasing a pair of UV light-blocking, wraparound-style sunglasses to wear home from the procedure and for at least a week afterward.

Get Ready the Night Before Your Procedure

It is advisable to wash your hair the night before your surgery. You will need to keep your eye clean and dry for the next few days, which can make hair washing a challenge.

After your surgery, you can still shower, but you must be very careful about preventing water from coming into contact with your eye. You should also avoid rubbing your eye and use eye drops if it feels dry or itchy.

It’s natural to feel nervous about undergoing cataract surgery, but taking steps to prepare for the procedure can help ease your anxiety. When you feel ready for your surgery, you’ll worry less about recovery and feel more excited to see the world clearly again!

Are you ready to reclaim your vision with cataract surgery? Schedule an appointment at Berg Feinfield Vision Correction in Burbank, CA, today!

Is It Possible for Cataracts to Recur?

Have you had your cataracts removed and are experiencing recurrent vision problems? Cataract surgery is a standard and effective treatment for restoring vision affected by cataracts, completely reversing common symptoms like cloudy or blurry vision, difficulty seeing in low light, and seeing halos and glare around bright lights.

Keep reading to find out if it’s possible for cataracts to recur and what it could mean for your vision.

What are Cataracts?

Cataracts are an age-related eye condition that occurs when proteins and fibers within the eye break off and clump together. These clumps collect on the eye’s naturally clear lens, preventing light from reaching the retina and impairing vision.

Other common symptoms of cataracts include sensitivity to bright lights, night blindness, changes in color perception, and yellow or milky white pupils. Cataracts usually develop slowly and may take years to seriously impact your vision. The only effective treatment for cataracts is cataract surgery.

What to Expect During Cataract Surgery

During cataract surgery, your cataract surgeon uses LENSX laser technology to remove the natural lens of the eye affected by cataracts and then replaces it with an intraocular lens (IOL).

Protein and fiber can no longer accumulate on the IOL, preventing cataracts from coming back. An IOL can also correct vision at one or more distances.

The standard lens used in cataract surgery is a monofocal lens, which can correct either near or distance vision. Premium IOLs can correct vision at two or more distances, reducing or eliminating the need for visual aids.

While cataract surgery means the end of cataract symptoms for most people, a small percentage of patients sometimes experience the return of symptoms like cloudy or blurry vision. They may not experience these symptoms until months, or even years, after cataract surgery.

These post-cataract surgery symptoms are not the return of cataracts; however, they could be signs of developing posterior capsular opacification.

What is Posterior Capsular Opacification?

Posterior capsular opacification is often called “secondary cataracts” and occurs in approximately 5-10% of cataract surgery patients. It develops when proteins in the eye come off and clump together on the back side of the lens capsule.

The lens capsule is a thin, transparent membrane that holds the lens of the eye in place. During cataract surgery, it is kept intact to support the replacement IOL.

As protein builds up on the back of the lens capsule, it creates a thick layer of tissue that blocks light from entering the eye. The symptoms of posterior capsular opacification are very similar to cataracts. These include cloudy vision, sensitivity to bright light, impaired vision in low light, and double vision.

It is important to stress that posterior capsular opacification is not the return of cataracts. It is an entirely different eye condition for which there is effective treatment.

What are the Treatments for Posterior Capsular Opacification?

The most common treatment for posterior capsular opacification is a surgical procedure called a posterior capsulotomy. During this procedure, your surgeon uses a precise laser to make a small opening in the lens capsule.

It is a quick procedure performed at Berg Feinfield Vision Correction. Most patients notice a significant improvement in the clarity of their vision within 1-2 days after the procedure.

If you have enjoyed years of clear vision after cataract surgery, it can be very distressing to experience the return of the cataract-like symptoms caused by posterior capsular opacification. Are you ready for better vision? Schedule your appointment with Berg Feinfield Vision Correction in Beverly Hills, CA, today!

Is it Normal to Have Double Vision After Cataract Surgery?

 

Cataract surgery is a standard procedure that helps improve vision for millions of people each year. While most patients experience significant improvement in their vision after the procedure, some may encounter temporary side effects, such as double vision.

Double vision can be alarming, especially if you’ve never experienced it before. However, it’s important to understand that this is a relatively uncommon issue after cataract surgery, and in most cases, it resolves on its own within a short period.

Keep reading to learn whether it’s normal to have double vision after cataract surgery and what you can do about it.

What Causes Double Vision after Cataract Surgery?

There are a few reasons why someone might experience double vision after cataract surgery:

  1. Eye muscle adjustment: After cataract surgery, the eye muscles may need time to adapt to the new IOL. 
  2. IOL position: If the IOL is not positioned perfectly within the eye, it can cause double vision. 
  3. Nerve or muscle damage: In extremely rare cases, the surgery may cause damage to the eye muscles or nerves that control eye movement. 

How many Cataract Surgery Patients get Double Vision?

Fortunately, double vision is not a common complication of cataract surgery. Studies have shown that only about 1 to 2 percent of patients experience double vision after the procedure. 

Certain factors may increase the risk of developing double vision after cataract surgery. These include pre-existing eye conditions, such as strabismus (misaligned eyes) or amblyopia (lazy eye), and complications during the surgery.

How Long Does Double Vision Last After Cataract Surgery?

In most cases, double vision after cataract surgery is a temporary issue that resolves within a few days to a few weeks. Your double vision should gradually improve as the eye muscles adjust to the new IOL and any inflammation from the surgery subsides.

However, some patients may experience double vision for a bit longer. In rare cases, double vision can persist for several months after the surgery. 

If you’re still experiencing double vision more than a few weeks after your cataract surgery, follow up with your eye doctor at Berg Feinfield Vision Correction in Burbank, CA. They can help determine the underlying cause and recommend the most appropriate treatment.

How Do You Get Rid of Double Vision after Cataract Surgery?

In most cases, no treatment is necessary, as the double vision will resolve independently as the eye heals and adapts to the new IOL. If treatment is needed, your eye doctor will work with you to determine the best option based on your situation.

If the double vision is caused by a misaligned IOL, your eye doctor may recommend waiting a few weeks to see if the IOL settles into the correct position on its own. If the issue persists, you may need another procedure to reposition your IOL.

In the rare cases where nerve or muscle damage causes your double vision, treatment options may include:

  • Vision therapy exercises to help the eyes work together more effectively
  • Prism glasses, which use special lenses to redirect light and compensate for misaligned eyes
  • Eye muscle surgery to physically realign the eyes

Double vision after cataract surgery can be frustrating and uncomfortable. However, it’s important to remember that it’s usually a temporary issue that is resolved with time. 

Ready to tackle your issues with double vision after cataract surgery? Schedule a consultation today with Berg Feinfield Vision Correction in Burbank, CA.

The Top 4 Questions to Ask Before Cataract Surgery

 

Preparing for cataract surgery starts with getting the answers to key questions in advance. Knowing what to expect is crucial when planning for care and recovery.

While cataract removal is typically a fast outpatient procedure, being an informed patient allows you to plan accordingly. Keep reading to learn the top four questions to ask before cataract surgery!

1. How Long Will Cataract Surgery Take?

While the cataract removal procedure itself may only last fifteen to thirty minutes, you need to plan to spend a couple of hours at the surgical center when accounting for intake, prep, the surgery itself, and recovery time before discharge. Every person’s procedure is different, so it’s important to get an idea of how long the procedure will take in your specific circumstance.

This can help you arrange for someone to take you to and from your procedure as well. Asking your cataract surgeon how long cataract surgery will take also opens up a discussion about what support you might need in the hours following the procedure.

Knowing what to anticipate timing-wise will allow you to plan accordingly.

2. Which IOL is Best For Me?

Prior to cataract surgery, you will need to choose an IOL to replace your natural cataract-affected lens during the procedure. This new IOL will determine how you see after the procedure, so it is a very important decision.

Your eye doctor will help you determine which IOL might be best for you based on your vision goals, the hobbies you enjoy, your lifestyle, and your IOL budget. Although the final decision of which IOL you will have is ultimately up to you, your eye doctor can give you guidance based on your eyes and vision goals.

3. When Can I Resume Normal Activities After Cataract Surgery?

After cataract surgery, you will need to spend some time resting in order to have the best results and avoid any complications. Ask your cataract surgeon any questions you may have about the recovery process, including when you can resume your typical routine.

Your cataract surgeon will provide instructions on limiting activities immediately after cataract surgery and guidelines on when you can resume normal activities like reading, watching TV, working on computers, driving, exercising, and more based on your healing progress. With your cataract surgeon’s input, you’ll understand the optimal balance between much-needed rest to allow surgical incisions to close while also steadily easing back into your regular routine.

Asking this question opens up an informed discussion about listening to your body while understanding your timeline for safely returning to activities that enrich your day.

4. What Do I Need To Do To Prepare For Cataract Surgery?

Knowing what you need to do ahead of time to prepare for cataract surgery may make you feel more at ease as you get closer to your procedure date. First, make sure you have all the medications you need for after your procedure.

Your eye doctor may require you to pick up some prescription eye drops at your pharmacy to have to use after your procedure. You will also need to plan to have a friend or a family member drive you to and from your procedure.

It’s best to do this in advance to ensure you have someone reliable who can get you to your procedure on time and help you settle in back home after cataract surgery. Your eye doctor may have some other specific recommendations that can help you prepare for the procedure.

Do you want to learn more about cataract surgery? Schedule a cataract evaluation at Berg Feinfield in Beverly Hills, CA, today!

5 Facts That Will Help Ease Cataract Surgery Anxiety

Cataract surgery can be daunting, but understanding the procedure and its outcomes can help ease your nerves. Cataract surgery is a common and safe procedure that can significantly improve the vision and quality of life for those with cataracts.

Keep reading to learn five reassuring facts about cataract surgery that can help ease any anxiety you might be feeling!

1. Cataract Surgery Has a High Success Rate

One of the most reassuring aspects of cataract surgery is its high success rate. The majority of patients experience improved vision after the procedure.

Cataracts, which cause cloudiness in the lens of the eye, are replaced with a clear artificial lens during the surgery. This replacement leads to clearer vision and a better quality of life for many patients.

Depending on which IOL you choose, you may even be able to reduce your dependence on visual aids after the procedure.

2. Cataract Surgery Is Typically Quick

If the thought of a lengthy surgical procedure is causing anxiety, rest assured that cataract surgery is typically a quick procedure. The procedure itself often takes less than thirty minutes, with the actual surgical process usually lasting around fifteen minutes.

This efficient timeline means you’ll be in and out of the operating room in no time.

3. Cataract Surgery is an Outpatient Procedure

The idea of spending days in a hospital can be unsettling. However, cataract surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you’ll go home on the same day as the surgery. 

This eliminates the need for hospitalization and allows you to recover in the comfort of your own home.

4. Cataract Surgery Can Improve Your Quality of Life

One of the most rewarding outcomes of cataract surgery is the improvement in your quality of life. Clearer vision can lead to an enhanced ability to engage in daily activities such as reading, driving, and enjoying hobbies. 

Cataract surgery not only restores your vision but also contributes to an overall better quality of life. It can also allow you to be more spontaneous and removes the hurdle of consideration about your vision requirements to do specific activities or participate in certain events.

5. Recovery is Typically Quick After Cataract Surgery

After cataract surgery, recovery is usually quick and easy. Many patients notice improved vision within the first day or two following the surgery. While you might experience some mild discomfort or irritation initially, these symptoms tend to subside quickly. 

Most individuals can resume normal activities shortly after the procedure, with minimal downtime.

Is it Time for Cataract Surgery?

If your daily life is interrupted or challenged by cataract symptoms, it may be time for cataract surgery. If your eye doctor has informed you that it’s time for cataract surgery, don’t let your fears hold you back from a more vibrant life with clear vision.

Cataract surgery anxiety is very common, but arming yourself with knowledge about the procedure can help alleviate those fears. The high success rate, quick procedure, outpatient nature, quality-of-life improvements, and rapid recovery make cataract surgery a highly reassuring option for those struggling with cataracts. 

As always, discuss your concerns with your eye surgeon. Seeking accurate information will empower you to make informed decisions and feel more confident about the journey to improved vision.

Do you want to learn more about cataract surgery? Schedule a cataract evaluation at Berg Feinfield Vision Correction in Sherman Oaks, CA, today!

6 Tips for Early Cataracts Prevention

Cataracts are a common age-related condition that affects the clarity of the lens in the eye, leading to blurry vision. While cataracts cannot be completely prevented, certain lifestyle choices and habits can help delay their onset or slow their progression. 

Keep reading to learn eight tips that may help you avoid developing cataracts early!

1. Protect Your Eyes From UV Radiation

Protecting your eyes from UV radiation is crucial in early cataract prevention. Prolonged exposure to UV rays from the sun can lead to the formation and progression of cataracts. 

When you are outdoors, whether on sunny or cloudy days, make sure to wear sunglasses that provide 100% UV protection. Look for sunglasses with a label indicating they block both UVA and UVB rays. 

By consistently shielding your eyes from harmful UV radiation, you can significantly reduce the risk of developing cataracts and safeguard your long-term eye health.

2. Quit Smoking

Quitting smoking is a vital measure for early cataract prevention. Smoking has a strong association with an increased risk of cataract development. 

The harmful substances in tobacco smoke generate oxidative stress and damage the lens, accelerating cataract formation. By quitting smoking, you not only enhance your overall health but also significantly decrease the likelihood of developing cataracts. 

3. Eat a Healthy Diet

Maintaining a healthy diet is a crucial aspect of early cataract prevention. Consuming a diet rich in antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals can support optimal eye health and potentially lower the risk of cataracts. 

Include a variety of fruits and vegetables in your meals, as they are excellent sources of antioxidants like vitamins C and E, which help combat oxidative stress in the eyes. Additionally, foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids, such as fish like salmon or mackerel, can provide anti-inflammatory benefits.

By adopting a well-balanced and nutrient-dense diet, you can nourish your eyes and potentially delay the onset or progression of cataracts.

4. Manage Chronic Conditions

Effectively managing chronic conditions is paramount in early cataract prevention. Conditions like diabetes and hypertension have been associated with an increased risk of developing cataracts. 

By diligently managing these conditions, you can minimize their impact on your eye health. Regular check-ups with your healthcare provider and adhering to their recommendations are vital in managing these conditions effectively and protecting your vision.

5. Protect Your Eyes From Injury

Protecting your eyes from injury is crucial in early cataract prevention. Trauma to the eye can accelerate the development of cataracts. Whether you engage in sports, work in hazardous environments, or perform activities with potential eye hazards, wearing appropriate protective eyewear is essential. 

Safety goggles, face shields, or helmets with face guards can shield your eyes from impact, debris, or chemicals. By taking proactive measures to protect your eyes from injury, you can significantly reduce the risk of cataracts and ensure long-term eye health.

6. Get Regular Eye Check-Ups

Regular eye check-ups play a pivotal role in early cataract prevention. Routine visits to an eye care professional allow for the detection and monitoring of cataracts and other eye conditions.

By prioritizing regular eye check-ups, you can take proactive steps towards maintaining optimal eye health and managing cataracts effectively.

Remember, while these tips may help reduce the risk or delay the progression of cataracts, they are not foolproof methods. It’s important to consult with an eye care professional for personalized advice based on your specific circumstances and medical history.

Are you experiencing vision changes you think may be related to cataracts? Schedule an appointment at Berg Feinfield in Burbank, CA, today!

What is the Definition of Cataracts?

Cataracts are very common and can cause a variety of bothersome symptoms. At first, the vision changes caused by cataracts may only be minor.

However, as the cataracts grow, they worsen your vision and impact your daily life. Keep reading to learn more about cataracts, including what they are, who may develop them, and how they are treated! 

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts are a very common eye condition that occurs with age. Cataracts form when your eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to vision problems. 

They can be caused by aging, genetic factors, or lifestyle habits such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, or prolonged exposure to sunlight. Cataracts can be diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam.

Treatment options for cataracts can vary depending on the severity of the condition. In the early stages, glasses or contact lenses may be used to improve vision. 

However, as cataracts progress, cataract surgery may be necessary to restore vision.

What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts?

Cataracts can cause several symptoms that can affect how well you see. You may notice that your vision is blurry, hazy, or cloudy. 

Colors may also seem less bright or appear to have a yellowish tint. You may have trouble seeing at night or in dimly lit areas, and glare from bright lights may be bothersome. 

Additionally, you may experience double vision in one eye or need to change your glasses prescription more often than usual. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to see an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam to determine the cause of the issue.

Can You Develop Cataracts in Your Twenties?

Cataracts are often associated with aging and are most commonly diagnosed in people over the age of sixty. However, cataracts can occur in people of all ages, including those in their twenties.

While cataracts in young adults are relatively rare, they can be caused by various factors, including genetics, trauma to the eye, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes. Some lifestyle factors, such as smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and prolonged exposure to UV rays, can also increase the risk of developing cataracts at a younger age.

Younger people with cataracts may not experience the same symptoms as older adults. The cloudy lens may not cause significant vision problems, and the cataract may be detected during a routine eye exam. 

However, if the cataract is causing visual symptoms such as blurry vision or difficulty seeing at night, cataract surgery may be recommended. It’s important to discuss any changes in vision with an eye doctor, regardless of age, to ensure proper diagnosis and treatment.

How Are Cataracts Treated?

Cataracts are typically treated through cataract surgery, which involves the removal of the cloudy lens and replacement with an artificial lens. Cataract surgery is a safe and common procedure that is usually performed on an outpatient basis.

Before surgery, your eye is numbed. Then, your cataract will make a small incision in the front surface of your eye, known as the cornea.

Next, they will use a special device to break up your natural lens into tiny pieces and remove them from your eye. Once the cataract is removed, an intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted to replace the natural lens.

There are different types of IOLs available, including monofocal lenses, which correct vision at a single distance, and multifocal lenses, which can correct vision at multiple distances. Your cataract surgeon will help you choose the best IOL for your needs.

Recovery from cataract surgery is usually quick, with most people returning to normal activities within a few days.

Are you experiencing symptoms of cataracts? Schedule an appointment at Berg Feinfield Vision Correction in Burbank, CA, today!

What Causes Cataracts?

Cataracts are one of the most common eye conditions in the world, affecting millions of people each year. Cataracts are characterized by clouding the eye’s natural lens, leading to blurred vision and other visual impairments. 

While cataracts are often associated with aging, they can also occur due to a variety of other factors, including genetics, trauma, and certain medications. Understanding the causes of cataracts is essential for preventing and treating this condition. 

Keep reading to learn more about this eye condition and the various causes of cataracts!

What Are Cataracts?

Cataracts are a very common eye condition. They are characterized by a clouding of the natural lens in the eye, which can cause blurred or distorted vision, difficulty seeing in low light, and other visual impairments. 

When you are first diagnosed with cataracts, you may not experience many symptoms. However, as they advance and grow, cataracts will eventually begin to significantly affect your vision and your ability to perform everyday tasks.

Once the symptoms of cataracts start interfering with your daily routine, your eye doctor will recommend cataract surgery. Cataract surgery is a safe and effective way to eliminate cataract symptoms.

Cataracts are usually associated with aging. However, they can also be caused by a variety of other factors, including genetics and trauma.

What Causes Cataracts to Form?

The cause of cataracts can vary depending on the type of cataract you have. At Berg Feinfield Vision Correction, our cataract surgeons can perform cataract surgery and help to restore your vision, regardless of the type or cause of the cataract.

Age-Related Cataracts

Age-related cataracts are some of the most common types of cataracts. These types of cataracts are caused by changes in the proteins in the lens of the eye that occur as part of the normal aging process. 

Over time, the proteins inside the eye’s natural lens can clump together and cause the lens to become cloudy, leading to the formation of a cataract. Additional factors that can contribute to the development of age-related cataracts include exposure to UV light, smoking, and certain medical conditions such as diabetes. 

Congenital Cataracts

While age-related cataracts are associated with the later stages of life, congenital cataracts are present at birth or develop during early childhood. Although rare, congenital cataracts can be caused by various factors, including genetic mutations, infections during pregnancy, and metabolic disorders.

The underlying cause of congenital cataracts is not known in every case. If left untreated, congenital cataracts can cause significant vision loss, making early diagnosis and treatment essential for preserving a child’s vision.

Traumatic Cataracts

While most cataracts form due to the natural aging process, cataracts can develop earlier in life due to eye injury, surgery, or other trauma to the eye or surrounding structures. Blunt trauma, penetrating injuries, and exposure to radiation can all cause damage to the lens of the eye, leading to the formation of a cataract. 

Unlike age-related cataracts, traumatic cataracts can occur at any age. If you experience an eye injury, a cataract may not form immediately. 

However, the injury may cause a cataract to develop earlier than typical.

Can You Prevent Cataracts From Forming?

While some risk factors for cataracts, such as aging and genetics, are beyond our control, there are several steps that individuals can take to reduce their risk of developing cataracts early. It’s best to avoid smoking, limit alcohol consumption, wear UV-protective sunglasses, protect your eyes from injury, and maintain a healthy diet and exercise routine.

Regular eye exams can also help detect cataracts early on, allowing your eye doctor to monitor their progress and recommend timely cataract surgery. While cataracts cannot be prevented, taking these steps can help reduce the risk of developing this common eye condition earlier in life.

Are you experiencing symptoms of cataracts? Schedule a cataract evaluation at Berg Feinfield Vision Correction in Burbank, CA, today!

How the Best Cataract Surgeon Can Change Your Life in Burbank

If you’ve been living with cataracts long enough for them to affect your vision, you are putting up with vision problems that are a simple fix. During cataract surgery, your aging and cloudy natural lens will be removed and replaced with an IOL.

It’s easy same-day surgery with a quick recovery time and can change your life. Keep reading to learn how the best cataract surgeon can change your life in Burbank!

Get Back to Living

Cataract surgery will offer you a significant quality of life improvement. If you are interested in experiencing reduced dependency on glasses after the procedure, it’s best to choose a premium IOL.

With multifocal capabilities, a premium IOL can allow you to enjoy clear distance and intermediate vision, and functional close vision. If you’re on the fence, consider how your life will change in Burbank.

Return to Real Books

Maybe you’ve been a lifelong reader and have an extensive collection of paperback books and hardcover novels because they feel more real in your hands. But in recent years, you’ve given them up for an e-reader because that way, you can make the print large.

After cataract surgery, you can return to paper and words on the printed page because your sight will be brighter and sharper. If you choose a standard IOL, you may still need reading glasses.

However, by choosing a premium IOL, you may be able to experience greater independence from your reading glasses. Either way, it’ll be fantastic to resume the enjoyable activity of reading at the end of a busy day.

Take Up the Hobbies You’ve Put Aside

Have you given up going to Stitch Night at your favorite yarn shop because of eye strain when you knit or crochet? Is machine sewing an activity made that much harder because it’s almost impossible to thread the needle? 

Have you stopped asking for model kits from your grandkids because assembling, gluing, and painting require too much close-up work? The hobbies you used to enjoy may have slipped away from you as your cataracts have worsened.

However, once you recover from cataract surgery, you’ll have renewed interest in the things you loved but laid aside because of vision problems. 

Dive Deep Into the Pool or Bodysurf the Waves 

There’s nothing better than a swim on a hot day. However, if you’ve been worried about not seeing clearly, or leaving your glasses somewhere where they might get taken, you may have avoided this activity recently. 

Cataract surgery and a new IOL can restore your vision and confidence in being spontaneous and more adventurous. Your poor vision will no longer be a hindrance, and the world will be brighter.

Don’t Worry About Night Driving 

One of the most frustrating symptoms of cataracts is visual disturbances like glare, light sensitivity, halos, and difficulty seeing while night driving. For these reasons, many individuals with cataracts choose to cut back on night driving.

This can make the world feel smaller and make you feel isolated. After cataract surgery, all those unwanted symptoms will be reduced, and you can go back to nighttime activities without those driving concerns. 

This fall, get back to the life you’ve put on hold because of cataracts! 

Are you ready to see how life after cataract surgery is brighter and better? Schedule a cataract evaluation at Berg Feinfield Vision Correction in Burbank, CA, today!