ASK EXPERTS the ASK EXPERTS

reduce your need for glasses for distance vision or near vision or both.

Q: When do I need cataract surgery? What are my options if I do?

A: A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens within the eye. Virtually all of us will get cataracts as we age. Cataract formation is usually a gradual process and vision changes can be subtle. Common symptoms include blurred or dim vision, sensitivity to light with glare, seeing halos, difficulty with night vision, and needing brighter light for reading. Often, the prescription of your glasses changes frequently, with diminishing improvements with each change.

By Aaron S. Wang, M.D. Ophthalmologist Glaucoma-Cataract Consultants, Inc

Ophthalmologists recommend a comprehensive eye exam to have your visual acuity measured and your eyes (pupils) dilated. A special microscope called a slit lamp is utilized to view and grade your cataract. You will be evaluated for other eye diseases, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration as well.

The decision to proceed with cataract surgery is based on how much the cataract interferes with your vision and daily activities. There is usually no rush, but the surgery can become more urgent if, for example, you fail to have adequate vision for driving.

Fortunately, cataract surgery is one of the safest and most effective procedures. Typically, it is an outpatient procedure done under light intravenous (IV) sedation. Through microscopic incisions, your cloudy natural lens is emulsified; with ultrasonic energy and is replaced with a clear artificial lens. This artificial lens is called an intraocular lens (IOL). Your vision should significantly improve over the next few days as long as you use your prescribed post-surgical eye drops.

There are different surgical options, including upgrades that can be associated with out-of-pocket expenses. Standard cataract surgery with a basic IOL is covered by insurance. It is a fine option if you are comfortable wearing glasses for both distance and near vision after surgery. Upgraded options leverage the latest technologies, including laser-assisted cataract surgery, intra-operative aberrometry, and premium IOLs (toric and/or multifocal IOLs). These technologies deliver customized surgery, address optical irregularities of your eyes, such as astigmatism, and minimize spectacle dependence. You can choose to

An ophthalmologist will meet with you for a cataract evaluation, with the intention of learning your individual visual needs, answering all of your questions, and guiding you toward the most appropriate option for which you may qualify. In addition to the options mentioned, an ophthalmologist can also offer “drop-less” cataract surgery if you have difficulty instilling eye drops. Typically, regardless of which surgical option is chosen, the surgery takes minutes, you leave without a stitch or patch, and the improvement is life changing.

A corneal sub-specialist, such as myself, can also perform a number of treatments concurrently with your cataract surgery if you have other co-existing eye diseases. An example includes the latest in corneal transplantation (DSAEK, DMEK) for Fuchs’ Corneal Dystrophy. Another example is minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) to lower your eye pressure. Combined surgery, when needed, provides convenience and the quickest route to your best possible vision.

Dr. Wang specializes in ophthalmology. He earned his medical degree at Stanford University School of Medicine, and completed his residency at Johns Hopkins Hospital Wilmer Eye Institute. He subsequently completed a fellowship at Shiley Eye Center, UC San Diego Health. Dr. Wang practices with Glaucoma-Cataract Consultants, Inc.

To contact Dr. Wang, please call 724-483-3688.