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Cataracts and Cataract Surgery

A cataract is a clouding of the natural lens, the part of the eye responsible for focusing light and producing clear, sharp images. The lens is contained in a sealed bag or capsule. As old cells die they become trapped within the capsule. Over time, the cells accumulate causing the lens to cloud, making images look blurred or fuzzy. For most people, cataracts are a natural result of aging.

In fact, they are the leading cause of visual loss among adults 55 and older. Eye injuries, certain medications, and diseases such as diabetes and alcoholism have also been known to cause cataracts. Cataracts usually result in blurry vision, poor contrast, and problems with glare at night.

Most people will develop cataracts if they live long enough. Our current techniques for removing cataracts is accomplished through tiny incisions that usually do not require stitches. The chances of developing astigmatism (distorted vision) after surgery are significantly decreased by eliminating stitches, which tend to pull the eye's surface slightly out of its natural shape. Most patients are now able to enjoy their best possible vision with minimal recovery time.

The cataract is situated inside the lens capsule, which is like an elastic bag that holds the lens in place. To remove the cataract, the front portion of the lens capsule is carefully opened. The cataract is gently broken apart using ultrasonic vibrations and vacuumed out of the lens capsule. This technique is called phacoemulsification. The lens capsule is left undisturbed so a tiny lens implant can be inserted in place of the original lens.

As a specialist, Dr. Rosenwasser not only performs routine cataract surgery, but also performs complex cases and reconstructs eyes that have experienced problems with their initial surgery.