More than 50% of people over the age of 60 - and a large percentage of those younger have vision that is impaired by cataracts. Cataracts are so common that everyone will eventually develop a cataract if they live long enough.

Thanks to recent advancements in technology and surgical techniques, cataract surgery has become one of the safest and most effective surgical procedures performed today. At Bausch and Jones Eye Associates, many of our patients are pleasantly surprised when they learn that we are now performing cataract removal and lens implantation surgery without stitches or injections. For patients that are candidates we use topical anesthesia (eye drops), which allows these patients the fastest possible visual recovery. It is not unusual for our patients to enjoy dramatically improved vision within hours of their procedure. The vast majority of our cataract patients return to normal daily activities less than 24 hours after their procedure.

The YAG laser is precisely controlled and safe for the treatment of patients with after-cataracts. Since an after-cataract clouds the eye, the laser creates a small opening in the eye allowing light to enter again.

A Common Vision Problem

Has your eye doctor told you that you have cataracts? You're not alone. Cataracts are a natural part of aging and everyone gets them at some point. The good news is that your doctor can remove them. This portion of the Web site explains what cataracts are, how they can affect your vision, and why small-incision surgery may be a good option for you.

Cataracts Reduce Your Sight

A cataract is the clouding of your eye's natural lens. Clouding usually happens slowly, so you might not notice it at first. But as time passes, your vision may grow fuzzy. Colors may not appear as vivid. Glare may bother you both in bright sunlight and at night, or it may seem as if your glasses are always dirty.

Small-Incision Cataract Surgery

Cataracts can't be treated with lasers or medication. Surgery is still the only treatment option. During surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with a clear, manmade intraocular lens (IOL). Cataract surgery is one of the most common and reliable operations. Each year, more than a million people have their vision improved through cataract surgery. Now the small-incision technique makes the procedure safer than it used to be and makes recovery quicker.

Small-Incision Surgery Benefits

The small-incision technique offers many benefits that can help get you back to your normal activities quickly. With small-incision cataract surgery:

• You spend less time in the operating room.
• Your incision heals faster.
• You'll be back to your usual activities in days rather than weeks.

Are cataracts holding you back? Vision loss from cataracts keeps some people from doing the things they want. Call us to schedule an appointment.