June is Cataract Awareness Month, a perfect opportunity to educate ourselves about cataracts, how they impact vision, and their relationship with LASIK surgery. At Inland Eye Lasik, we’re committed to providing our patients with the knowledge they need to maintain optimal eye health. Let’s explore how cataracts can affect your eligibility for LASIK and the solutions available after cataract surgery.
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts develop when the proteins in the lens of your eye clump together, causing cloudy areas that blur and distort vision. This condition can make everyday tasks like reading or driving challenging as if you’re looking through a foggy window. Symptoms of cataracts include:
- Blurred or Cloudy Vision: Objects appear hazy or out of focus.
- Dull or Yellowed Colors: Colors may seem less vibrant and more yellowed.
- Difficulty Seeing at Night: Nighttime vision can be impaired, often with increased glare.
- Sensitivity to Light and Glare: Bright lights may cause discomfort or glare.
- Double Vision in One Eye: You may see two images instead of one.
How Cataracts Affect LASIK Eligibility
LASIK is a popular laser eye surgery designed to correct vision issues such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. However, cataracts can affect your eligibility for LASIK. The presence of cataracts means that your vision issues stem from the clouding of the lens rather than the shape of your cornea, which LASIK targets. Therefore, cataract surgery is necessary before considering LASIK.
Post-Cataract Surgery and LASIK
After cataract surgery, some patients may still experience minor vision imperfections. In such cases, LASIK can be a valuable option to refine and enhance vision further. At Inland Eye Lasik, our experienced surgeons can perform LASIK as a touch-up procedure after your cataract surgery to ensure you achieve the best possible vision.
Premium Lens Options and LASIK
When undergoing cataract surgery, patients have the option of selecting premium intraocular lenses (IOLs). These advanced lenses can correct a range of vision issues:
- Toric Lenses: Designed for patients with astigmatism, these lenses provide clear vision at all distances.
- Multi-Focal Lenses: These lenses offer a range of focus, allowing for near, intermediate, and distant vision, often reducing or eliminating the need for glasses.
Choosing the right IOL is crucial, especially for patients considering LASIK after cataract surgery. Premium lenses can significantly reduce the need for further vision correction, but in some cases, a LASIK touch-up may still be beneficial.
The Importance of Annual Eye Exams
Regular eye exams are essential in maintaining eye health and preventing conditions like cataracts from advancing unnoticed. Annual eye exams allow our specialists to detect cataracts early and provide timely treatment options.
Proactive eye care is key to preserving it. Schedule a LASIK Consultation at Inland Eye Lasik to ensure your eyes are healthy. Our dedicated team is here to provide comprehensive eye care and the best treatment solutions tailored to your needs.
Call us today to book your appointment or visit our website at inlandeye.com. Protect your vision and enjoy clear, vibrant sight with the help of Inland Eye Lasik.
