Cataract Surgeons in Lebanon, PA

Cataract surgery is a common procedure performed by ophthalmologists who specialize in the treatment of eye conditions. These surgeons are known as cataract surgeons or cataract specialists. They have extensive training and experience in diagnosing and surgically removing cataracts, which are the clouding of the lens inside the eye that causes vision loss. By age 75, many people have cataracts that begin to interfere with vision. Our cataract surgeons in Lebanon PA at Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania are ready to help.

What is a cataract surgeon?

Cataract surgeons are medical doctors (MDs) or doctors of osteopathic medicine (DOs) who have completed medical school and specialized training in ophthalmology. After obtaining their medical degrees, they undergo a residency program in ophthalmology, which typically lasts three to four years. During this residency, they receive comprehensive training in the diagnosis and management of various eye conditions, including cataracts.

Following the completion of their residency, many cataract surgeons choose to pursue further specialization in cataract surgery through fellowship programs, as our surgeons have done. These fellowships provide additional training and expertise in advanced cataract surgical techniques, such as laser-assisted cataract surgery, complex cataract cases, and the use of premium intraocular lens implants.

What are the symptoms?

Cataracts are an age-related condition. They gradually develop over time when proteins in the eye naturally break down and clump on the lens. A cataract can occur in one or both eyes, and at first is usually not noticeable to the person. As more protein clumps onto the lens, the cataract worsens over time, and patients often experience blurred vision, difficulty reading, and difficulty driving at night. You may see halos around oncoming headlights, and colors may appear more muted or faded. Many patients experience increased sensitivity to glare, and some may even have double vision in one eye.

Cataracts can begin forming as early as age 40 and by age 75, most adults have one. However, the cataract will develop slowly over time and many patients don’t even notice symptoms.

How are cataracts treated?

Early detection is important for cataracts. This can only be done by having regular comprehensive eye exams performed by an ophthalmologist. Our team performs a dilated eye exam to offer the doctor a better, clearer view of the back of the eye and eye structures. For the cataract exam, the doctor will use an instrument called a slit-lamp microscope to look for signs of cataracts.

Once cataracts are diagnosed, the initial treatment is usually to manage symptoms with prescription glasses or brighter lighting for tasks like reading. However, if the cataracts start to significantly impact vision, cataract surgery may be recommended. During this procedure, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. The procedure itself is done in our state-of-the-art outpatient facility and usually takes less than 30 minutes. We will monitor you for a time afterwards, then have someone drive you home to rest for the remainder of the day.

Come see us

It’s important to note that cataract surgery is a well-established and routine procedure performed by many ophthalmologists. If you are considering cataract surgery, it’s recommended to consult with a qualified ophthalmologist who has experience in performing cataract surgeries.

If you suspect you have a cataract, or it has just been a while since your last exam, schedule an appointment with our Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania cataract surgeons in Lebanon PA. We hope to see you soon, and we’ll take great care of you and your eyes.