Cataract Surgery Cape Coral

ABOUT CATARACTS IN CAPE CORAL

Vision is an essential aspect of our daily lives, allowing us to navigate the world and experience its beauty each and every day. However, certain conditions like cataracts and glaucoma can hinder our ability to see clearly. Cataracts occur when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to a noticeable decline in vision quality, and often require the expertise of a cataract surgeon.

This cloudiness of the lens typically develops gradually, primarily as a result of aging, although they can also have genetic or environmental causes. As the lens becomes clouded, it hampers the passage of light and distorts the images reaching the retina. Consequently, individuals often experience blurred vision, sensitivity to glare, difficulty seeing at night, and an overall decrease in visual acuity. In such cases, doctors in FL and elsewhere can provide valuable guidance on treatment options.

The prevalence of this condition is alarmingly high, affecting millions of people worldwide. According to the World Health Organization, cataracts are the leading cause of blindness, accounting for approximately 51% of global blindness cases. These statistics highlight the significant impact this eye affliction has on individuals and communities around the globe.

Currently, there is no medical treatment, including medications, to reverse or prevent the development of cataracts. Once they form, there is only one way to achieve clear vision again, and that is to see your cataract surgeon, like Dr. Snead or one of his colleagues in FL, and physically remove the cloudy lens from the eye.

The modern medical advancements that are now available offer solutions that can restore clarity and vision to those affected.

THE BENEFITS

The surgery holds numerous benefits, offering a transformative solution to improve both vision quality and overall quality of life for individuals with cataracts. Here are some key advantages worth highlighting:

Improved Vision Quality and Clarity

Cataract surgery aims to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This procedure effectively restores clear vision by allowing light to properly focus on the retina. Patients often report a remarkable improvement in their vision, experiencing sharper and more vibrant visual perception. Colors become more vivid, and details become clearer, enabling individuals to appreciate the world around them with renewed clarity.

High Success Rates and Patient Satisfaction

This surgery has an excellent track record of success. Numerous studies have shown high satisfaction rates among patients who undergo the procedure. A study published in JAMA Ophthalmology found that cataract removal led to significant improvements in visual function and overall quality of life for older adults.

Reduced Spectacle and Contact Dependence

For many individuals with cataracts, their vision impairment necessitates the use of glasses or contact lenses for daily activities. Cataract treatment offers the advantage of reducing or eliminating the need for visual aids, such as prescription glasses or contact lenses. Following the procedure, patients often experience enhanced visual acuity, allowing them to perform tasks such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces without reliance on corrective eyewear.

Prevention of Vision Loss and Blindness

Untreated cataracts can progressively worsen, leading to severe vision loss and, in some cases, blindness. Lens replacement surgery provides a proactive approach to prevent further vision deterioration and its associated consequences. By removing the clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial one, the surgery halts the progression of cataracts, preserving and restoring vision for a better future.

Enhanced Safety and Independence

Cataracts can significantly impact an individual’s safety and independence, particularly in tasks that require clear vision, such as driving, navigating stairs, or participating in outdoor activities. Your cataract surgeon, like the doctors in FL, can restore your visual clarity, reducing the risks and improving safety in daily life. Patients often regain the ability to perform routine tasks with confidence, enhancing their independence and overall well-being.

LENSX FEMTOSECOND LASER

Snead Eye Group, a leading eye care provider in Southwest Florida, is proud to offer the revolutionary LenSx® laser, which provides patients with an optimized refractive surgery experience, in addition to their other services such as eyeglasses and eye surgeons consultations for a variety of symptoms.

Traditionally, lens replacement surgery is performed manually, where the surgeon uses a blade to create all of the incisions during the procedure. With the introduction of the first FDA cleared custom cataract laser, the LenSx® femtosecond cataract laser, the eye surgeons at Snead Eye Group have the ability to create incisions and reduce astigmatism with a laser.

The incisions are more accurate and precise, thus eliminating some of the variables that have complicated cataract surgery results in the past. Recent results show that the laser is up to 10x more precise than manual techniques for portions of the cataract surgery.

By exhibiting a high level of accuracy and precision, the outcome of surgery with LenSx is more predictable. Studies have shown that with cataract surgery using the LenSx® femtosecond cataract laser at Snead Eye Group, patients have a better chance of seeing 20/20 or better vs. manual blade incisions.

During your procedure, the LenSx® femtosecond cataract laser has many advantages. Prior to surgery, Snead Eye Group performs a number of tests as well as takes measurements to assess your symptoms and plan your lens replacement surgery.

While measurements are taken before your procedure, the LenSx® Cataract Laser uses a range of highly advanced technologies, including integrated optical coherence tomography (OCT), to capture precise, accurate, high-resolution images of your eyes. With the data collected from these images and measurements, a plan can be created for your cataract surgery that had not been possible with traditional technology.

Surgery with LenSx can be performed at our Naples eye surgery center, located in southwest Florida, enhancing the practice’s reputation for comprehensive eye care services.

SELF-SEALING INCISIONS

Your cataract will be removed with an advanced technique called phacoemulsification, or small-incision cataract surgery. Using only a topical anesthetic, a “stair-stepped” incision of about 1/8″ is made in the sclera (white part of the eye), or in the clear cornea (just above the area where the cornea meets the sclera).

The cataract is then broken into microscopic particles using high energy sound waves and gently suctioned from the eye. Then, to compensate for the removal of the eye’s natural lens, an intra-ocular lens (IOL) is implanted into the eye.

After using this special “stair-stepped” incision, the eye remains tightly sealed by the natural outward pressure within your eye. Trusted ophthalmologists and eye surgeons in various locations, including southwest Florida, perform this procedure, ensuring the best eye care and advice for each patient.

LIFESTYLE LENS OPTIONS

MULTIFOCAL IOLS

For the individual who desires the least amount of dependency on glasses AND the very best vision possible, at all ranges near through distance, for everything you do, multifocal IOLs are the best of the best and desired by busy people on the go! This package includes advanced multifocal lens and limbal relaxing incision if necessary. Always consult your best cataract surgeon for the right diagnosis and appropriate lens choice for your specific needs.

Benefits:

• Can eliminate the need for glasses for most activities.
• Multifocal IOLs may also be available that have the ability to correct astigmatism.
• Can be done by LenSx.

TORIC IOLS

For the individual who desires better distance vision and correction of astigmatism, Toric IOLs offer improved night vision and less dependence on eyeglasses while driving.

The ideal patient includes those bothered by astigmatism, people who utilize a computer for numerous tasks, and people who enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating, and golfing in southwest Florida.

This package includes: High Definition Aspheric lens or Toric lens, and limbal relaxing incision if necessary. Seek guidance from your site ophthalmologist for proper advice on the lens selection.

Benefits:

• Ideal for patients who want clear distance vision without glasses.
• Can be done by LenSx.

STANDARD MONOFOCAL IOLS

For the individual that desires good vision but doesn’t mind wearing eyeglasses.This vision care package includes: Basic Monofocal lens, usually correcting distance vision. This lens aids in providing clarity through various eye care procedures.

However, if you have astigmatism, you will need glasses for all ranges of vision. Discuss with your physician whether this package is suitable for your needs and explores the variety of vision care procedures available.

Benefits:

Costs are typically covered by Medicare and other insurance.

SELF-SEALING INCISION AND TOPICAL ANESTHESIA

Topical anesthesia and self-sealing incisions have taken cataract surgery to the next level. Many patients are able to see with clear vision much sooner after the surgery.

In most cases, it is now possible to return to daily activities such as driving and reading almost immediately. With “eye drop” anesthesia, there is rarely the need to inject the eye, which delays vision restoration and could cause temporary swelling and skin discoloration.

Regular eye exams help proper sensitivity diagnosis and provide better eye care recommended by physicians, ensuring comprehensive vision care for each patient.

SUCCESSFUL SURGERY

Everyone heals somewhat differently, but many cataract patients report improvement in their vision almost immediately after the procedure. Most patients return to their normal work and lifestyle routines within a day or two, under the constant guidance of theireye doctor or eye care physicians.

According to a survey conducted by the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, more than 98% of cataract patients had their vision successfully improved after surgery through various vision care procedures.

Many patients experienced vision that is actually better than before they developed cataracts. Once removed, cataracts will not grow back. However, some patients may experience clouding of a thin tissue called the capsule or “bag” that holds the intra-ocular lens (IOL.) In most cases, a laser is used to painlessly open the clouded capsule and restore clear vision.

AVAILABLE FINANCING

Snead Eye Group works with Care Credit, a finance company that can help patients pay any high insurance deductible and help pay for Tecnis Multifocal or Toric Lens for cataract surgery patients. When patients apply and are approved, we offer a two-year, no interest rate, payment plan. Learn more about Care Credit financing.

THE CHOICE IS YOURS

It can take months or years for a cataract to develop. How do you know when it is time to have a cataract removed? The answer is quite simple. The time to have your cataract removed is when you believe your quality of life would be better if you could see better. Only you can decide when it is time to open your eyes to a bright, clear world. Schedule an appointment with your ophthalmologist for their expert advice and proper diagnosis.

IMPROVED VISION

Because cataract surgery can be done with just topical anesthesia, patients typically feel nothing during or after the procedure. Previously, a needle was used to inject eye anesthetic. However, with all the latest advancements, including the smaller incision, we can now use eye drops to numb the eye, which means no stick of a needle before surgery. The major advantage of not having to wear a patch, besides patient comfort, is that patients can immediately see the improvement in their vision. Rest assured that our team of physicians and eye care professionals will provide the best possible care throughout the process.

Questions & Additional Information

Is LASIK for cataract surgery?

LASIK is a type of surgery that changes the shape of the cornea, the outer layer of the eye, whereas cataract surgery involves replacing the lens located behind the iris. Typically, LASIK is recommended for younger patients, while cataract surgery is more common in older individuals.

Where can I find a qualified ophthalmologist to perform cataract surgery in Naples?

Doctor BRAD A. SNEAD, MD, MBA, FACS, is a Board Certified Ophthalmologist and the Medical Director of Snead Eye Group, which offers a variety of eye care services. These services could include a comprehensive eye exam, to assess vision and eye health, as well as fitting patients for contact lenses. In addition, the office also provides advanced treatments such as laser cataract surgery, which can improve visual outcomes and reduce dependence on glasses or contacts, ensuring personalized vision care procedures for each patient.