New Year’s Resolution: Ditch the Glasses and Go for LASIK
If you've been thinking about simplifying your life during the new year, consider adding LASIK to your resolution list. Learn about the benefits of LASIK and what makes it so popular.
How Do I Choose the Right Cataract Surgeon Near Me?
People always like to say, “the fog has lifted” in a metaphorical sense, but for individuals with cataracts, removing the fog from their vision can be life-changing. Cataracts are a clouding, or opacity, of the lens resting behind the pupil. Often, people first notice fuzzy vision, or double vision, then possibly notice everything taking on a yellow hue. Soon light sensitivity becomes prevalent and reading can become difficult. Upon diagnosis, significant cataracts will require surgery to replace the cloudy lens with a new one.
But before typing “cataract surgeons near me” into your browser, heed some of Marano Eye Care’s suggestions about what you should be looking for in a surgeon.
Get the Correct Diagnosis
Prior to committing to any surgery or doctor, make sure that an ophthalmologist near you provides you with the correct cataract diagnosis. Depending on where the cataract has occurred in the lens, you may have one of the three following types:
- Cataracts that occur in the inner core, or nucleus of the lens, are called nuclear sclerotic cataracts. These are the most commons type of cataract associated with getting older. Nuclear cataracts occur when the lens hardens and yellows over time. These cataracts can often take years to develop before needing surgery.
- Cortical cataracts appear in along the outside edge of the lens and are typically associated with diabetics. Within the lens fibers is water. When the water content changes, wheel spoke-like fissures move from the outside of the lens inward. A cortical cataract makes objects blurrier, increases glare, and may also affect contrast and depth perception.
- When clouding is initiated in the back of the lens, it is termed a posterior subcapsular cataract. More specifically, the clouding occurs in the small sac, or membrane that holds the lens in place. Subcapsular cataracts are most commonly attributed to steroid use, some diabetics, retinitis pigmentosa, and even some patients with extreme myopia (nearsightedness). The fastest-developing cataract will make reading a challenge and increase glare, often accompanied with a halo effect.
Find a Friend with a Recommendation for Cataracts in NJ
“But I don’t know anyone with cataracts,” you might be thinking. This is nearly impossible! According to the National Eye Institute, by the age of 80, half of the population will either have a cataract or had surgery to remove one. While that’s bad news for half of the population, it also means that you’re going to have a lot of personal recommendations to draw upon. This is a great place to start the search for a cataract surgeon in your area.
Search the American Academy of Ophthalmology for Eye Surgeons Near You
In every industry, there are associations that set the standards. For eye physicians and surgeons, it’s the American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO). But AAO is not just a great resource for physicians – it’s a resource for people to learn about eye conditions as well as find the best ophthalmologists in the country. Use their find an ophthalmologist tool to search your area.
Don’t be Afraid to Consult with More than One Ophthalmologist
While getting a referral from a friend or another doctor is always a good foundation for seeing any specialist, it doesn’t guarantee that they are going to sync with you the way that they synced with others. Do you have any specific requests or concerns? Do you have other medical conditions, or phobias? Put it all out on the table when meeting your potential cataract surgeon. They should be able to assuage any concerns you may have and inform you medically about your condition.
Even if you really like the first ophthalmologist, it doesn’t hurt to get a second or third opinion to ensure that your condition is being properly diagnosed. Cataracts are fairly straightforward to diagnose, but the lens replacement may differ.
Gauge Their Experience with Different Cataract Lenses
In cataract surgery, the now-opaque natural lens that you were born with is removed and replaced with an intraocular lens, also known as an IOL. There’s a variety of IOLs to choose from: Monofocal IOLs; Multifocal IOLs; Accommodating IOLS; Toric IOLS; and Aspheric IOLS. Prior to surgery, discuss these options with your doctor at length. Not only should they be able to give you a recommendation based on your needs, you’ll be able to gauge their experience with the lens. If you have a specific lens that appeals to you but they do not feel comfortable implementing it, it may be time to move on to a different surgeon.
Find the Right Cataract Surgeon Near You
At Marano Eye Care, we have been performing cataract surgery for decades and have countless happy customers who can tell you about their experiences. If you’re ready to clear the fog from your vision and improve your quality of life, contact Marano Eye Care today or find your nearest location. We eye doctor locations in Livingston, Newark, and Denville, NJ.
You Might Also Enjoy...
Flashes and Floaters in Your Eyes: When to See the Doctor
Flashes and floaters are common and usually not problematic. However, they sometimes indicate an underlying issue that requires specialty care. Our team explains what flashes and floaters may suggest about your vision and when to come see the us.
Got 20/20 Vision? Why You Still Need a Comprehensive Eye Exam
When it comes to eye exams, 20/20 vision is a great start. But what about the blood vessels, corneal layers, lens, retina, and other eye structures – are they healthy? Learn more about comprehensive eye exams and why you shouldn’t skip them.
Why You Should Always Seek Treatment for Dry Eye
A little eye irritation here or there may be the result of seasonal allergies or particularly dry air. Ongoing irritation is often a sign of a condition called dry eye, which you shouldn’t ignore. Find out why treating your dry eye is a must.
Covid-19 Precautionary Steps/Protocols
Your health and safety will always come first here at Marano Eyecare Center. The key message to patients is we are here for you, we want to protect you and your families and our workforce by not having unnecessary exposure.
Everything You Need To Know About MGD (Meibomian Glands Dysfunction)
MGD is short for meibomian glands dysfunction, which is often associated with dry eye syndrome. Your meibomian glands are located within your eyelids, where their primary function is to secrete an oily substance that coats the tear film covering...