Cataracts are a condition where your lens has become cloudy, like looking through a foggy or dusty car windshield. Things look blurry, hazy or less colorful with a cataract. You can learn more about what cataracts are here.

If your cataract symptoms are not bothering you very much, you don’t have to remove a cataract. You might just need a new eyeglass prescription to help you see better.

However, cataracts can only be removed with surgery. If your cataracts keep you from doing things you want or need to do, you should discuss your surgery options with one of our doctors.

During cataract surgery, your cloudy natural lens is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens. That lens is called an intraocular lens (IOL). Your ophthalmologist can talk with you about IOLs and how they work.

Cataracts are a very common reason people lose vision, but they can be treated. You and your ophthalmologist should discuss your cataract symptoms. Together you can decide whether you are ready for cataract surgery.

Some of the information contained here was adapted from EyeSmart – The American Academy of Ophthalmology