About Cataract Surgery in Lake Worth, FL

As a safe and dependable procedure, traditional cataract surgery or phacoemulsification is one of the most common surgeries performed across the world. Our talented team of South Florida ophthalmologists at Palm Beach Eye Center can complete both traditional or laser cataract surgery and select which procedure works best for your needs. At your consultation, we complete several diagnostic exams of your general eye health and develop a personalized strategy for your surgery. The difference between each surgery is that we perform traditional surgery manually and use laser-assisted technology for the other treatment. Please schedule an appointment with one of our ophthalmologists in Lake Worth, FL to receive more information about traditional cataract surgery. Our team would love to talk with you about the techniques for your cataract procedure.

Traditional cataract surgery can offer patients seeking treatment for cataracts several advantages. Traditional cataract surgery is a less complicated procedure and takes less time to complete than laser cataract surgery. The incisions made during phacoemulsification are minor, so they will not require any sutures or stitches. Because traditional cataract surgery can be performed more quickly than alternative options, phacoemulsification is often considered to be more cost-effective. To find a cataract surgeon in Lake Worth, FL, contact our office today.

While one of the best ways to determine if you need cataract surgery is to undergo a comprehensive eye exam. However, there are some signs that you might be a good candidate. If you are around 40 years of age and you've experienced any of the following signs and symptoms, you may be a good candidate:

• A glare or a halo around any type of bright light
• Blurred vision
• Sensitivity to light
• Distorted vision
• Double vision in one eye
• Faded colors

Additionally, if your vision issues are impacting your daily life, it is important to schedule an appointment as early as possible. To find out more about cataract surgery in Palm Beach, FL, contact our eye specialists. We will work with you to help you experience clearer vision.

For the most part, all people living with cataracts qualify for traditional cataract surgery as long as they are in good physical health. During your consultation, we can determine your eligibility and figure out if you have any underlying issues, such as astigmatism, macular degeneration, or retinal detachment, which may hinder your results. Once we have thoroughly assessed your eyes and medical history, you’ll receive a detailed treatment plan and information about the cost.

Offered as an outpatient procedure, it takes about 15 minutes for each eye, and before your surgery, we numb both. After you feel comfortable, one of our team members places an eye speculum to keep your eye open and prevent it from moving. Next, we create a small 1/8-inch incision at the edge of the corneal tissue to access your lens for removal, then place a new intraocular lens (IOL) or an artificial lens. Because the incision is so small, you don't require stitches. Before you leave, our team will provide detailed aftercare instructions that may include using eye drops, wearing an eye bandage, sleeping without impacting your results, and scheduling follow-up appointments to assess your healing. Following your procedure, you could have distorted vision for about 1 – 2 hours, but this will subside as your brain gets used to the new lens.

Most often, patients can return to their regular daily routine about eight weeks following their cataract surgery. Typically, any initial pain or discomfort will often diminish within a few days with the help of prescription eye drops given to you by a member of our skilled eye care team. If you require new glasses, you should wait to order a new prescription until you've completely healed. It's important to note that while your vision may be blurry after treatment, it should return within a few hours. It is normal to experience side effects, including watery eyes, double vision, or red eyes. If you have additional concerns about recovery, please schedule an appointment in our office.

Is cataract surgery painful?
Generally, cataract surgery is considered relatively painless due to the use of a numbing solution that is administered to the eyes, keeping the patient from feeling any discomfort. Following surgery, the eyes may continue to feel numb for several hours, at which point, there could be some slight discomfort.

How long will it take for my vision to stabilize after cataract surgery?
Though recovery time can vary between patients, most of our patients find that their eyesight has stabilized about 1 – 3 months following cataract surgery. Follow-up appointments will also be scheduled to ensure your eyes recover properly and provide you with an updated prescription for your glasses.

What should I avoid following cataract surgery?
It's recommended that you avoid getting shampoo or soap in your eye. Don't participate in strenuous housework or exercise. You also shouldn't wear make-up for at least four weeks. You'll get the all-clear on when you can drive from our doctors during your follow-up appointment.

Can cataract surgery improve vision affected by other eye conditions?
Cataract surgery primarily addresses vision issues caused by cataracts. However, if you have other eye conditions like glaucoma or macular degeneration, your overall vision improvement may depend on the severity of these conditions. Your ophthalmologist will discuss realistic expectations based on your eye health.

Is it safe to have cataract surgery on both eyes at the same time?
In most cases, cataract surgery is performed on one eye at a time to allow for proper healing and evaluation of the results. However, in certain circumstances, both eyes may be treated simultaneously. Your surgeon will advise you on the safest and most effective approach for your situation.

How do I prepare for cataract surgery?
Preparing for cataract surgery involves a few simple steps, such as avoiding eating or drinking for a certain period before the procedure and arranging transportation for after your surgery. Your ophthalmologist will provide specific instructions, including whether to adjust or pause any medications.

At Palm Beach Eye Center, our team of highly skilled ophthalmologists in Lake Worth, FL can help you receive any eye care you require. If you have been diagnosed with cataracts or suspect you have symptoms of cataracts, please reach out to our South Florida eye center to schedule a consultation with us. We can help you discover the benefits of traditional cataract surgery or laser-assisted cataract surgery.