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Cataract Surgery FAQ

One of the most common problems that can affect your vision in the aging process is cataracts, which affect the lenses of the eyes that help you focus and see clearly. In addition to blurred vision, cataracts can cause you to see halos of light and have difficulty seeing at night. While the lens of the eye cannot be repaired once cataracts develop, lenses can be removed and replaced with specialized intraocular lenses that may actually enhance your vision so that it is even better than before the cataracts formed. If you have cataracts and are considering cataract surgery, Gerstein Eye Institute is a leader in surgical eye care where you can find the most advanced surgical solutions to improve your vision. Here’s a look at some of the most common questions we hear about cataract surgery to help you plan your treatment.

What Are the Benefits of Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is an ideal solution for many patients, because it provides permanent vision correction with incredible patient safety. Under the care of Dr. Gerstein at Gerstein Eye Institute, the choice to have laser cataract surgery is an easy decision, since we are committed to the most sophisticated surgical solutions to achieve the best vision possible for every patient. Below you can read about more of the distinctive benefits of our surgical procedures.

  • Complete vision correction – Unlike glasses and contacts, cataract surgery can offer full vision correction by eliminating the cloudiness of cataracts and improving refractive vision problems with specialized intraocular lenses.
  • Customizable solutions – Cataract surgery is customized to every patient with the help of the LENSAR Laser System, which utilizes 3-D modeling to ensure the most accurate laser incisions and optimal vision correction.
  • Quick recovery – Because cataract surgery is a laser procedure, it only takes about 10 minutes to perform and has a relatively short recovery period. Most patients are surprised at how easy it is to resume most normal activities in the day following surgery, though you may need to wear a protective eye patch immediately after your procedure and refrain from strenuous activities for about a week.

Who Is a Good Candidate for Cataract Surgery?

Typically cataract surgery is used in more severe cases of cataracts when contact lenses or prescription eyeglasses will not provide sufficient vision correction. Almost anyone may be a candidate for surgery, though there may be a higher chance of complications in patients with existing health conditions and patients who smoke.

Are There Surgical Risks?

With the sophisticated laser technologies featured in our practice, there are few risks associated with cataract surgery at Gerstein Eye Institute. In all patients—including those with pre-existing eye conditions other than cataracts—surgery has a 90% success rate. If you are a higher-risk patient, Dr. Gerstein will work with you to reduce your risks or explore alternative treatment options.

To schedule your cataract surgery consultation at Chicago’s Gerstein Eye Institute, call us at (773) 973-3223.