Syracuse UT Ophthalmology Office

Cataracts

What Is A Cataract?

A cataract is a condition in which the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and hard. Cataracts develop in everyone as part of the normal aging process. However, their development can be accelerated by certain things such as an eye injury, ultraviolet light exposure, certain medical conditions (i.e. diabetes), previous eye surgery, or prolonged use of steroid medications.

Cataracts often cause blurred vision, dulled vision, glare, light sensitivity, and/or double vision. When the cataract alters vision so much that it interferes with your daily life, the cataract may need to be removed. Aside from surgery, there are no other forms of treatment to prevent or reverse cataract formation. Without surgery, the cataract will continue to worsen and further limit vision.

Premium Lenses

The new technology and developments in cataract surgery are exciting!

Premium lenses can minimize and even eliminate your need for glasses or contact lenses after cataract surgery. These premium lenses include astigmatism-correcting intraocular lenses and presbyopia-correcting lenses.

Astigmatism-Correcting IOL's

Astigmatism can be lenticular (in the lens) or corneal (in the cornea). If you have corneal astigmatism, a toric intraocular lens (IOL), also known as an astigmatism-correcting IOL, can be implanted during cataract surgery to correct for the astigmatism. Lenticular astigmatism is simply corrected by removing the cataract.

Presbyopia-Correcting IOL's

Presbyopia-correcting lenses make it possible to focus at both distance and near out of the same eye. This minimizes the need for bifocals, progressive lenses, and/or reading glasses after cataract surgery.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can a cataract come back after it has been removed?

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No. Once a cataract is removed from the eye, it cannot come back. However, the lens capsule that holds the lens in place becomes cloudy in about 1/3 of patients after cataract surgery. This condition is easily treated with a procedure called a YAG capsulotomy in which a laser is used to create an opening in the cloudy lens capsule. This quick and painless procedure is performed in our office and requires no down time. A YAG capsulotomy is a separate charge from cataract surgery; however, it is a billable procedure to your medical insurance.

How much should I expect to pay for my eye medications?

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Eye drops for cataract surgery can be expensive. However, there are options available to enable you to purchase all three medications for no more than approximately $150 total. If your pharmacy gives you a price greater than this, please contact our office. Two of the medications should last for both eyes, further decreasing your out-of-pocket cost.

Will I have to wear glasses after cataract surgery?

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This depends on the intraocular lens (IOL) that you select. Patients who choose the standard lens will almost always need glasses for certain activities.

Premium lenses are available to lessen your need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery. For more information on IOL options, please see the “Surgical Options” section of this brochure.

How soon can I get new glasses after surgery?

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It takes time for the new IOL to settle into its final position after surgery. New glasses prescriptions are typically given at the 1 month post-op visit.

How soon can I fly after cataract surgery?

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Flying has not been shown to impact the results of cataract surgery and there are no specific restrictions in this regard. However, we do recommend staying local until after your 1 week follow up appointment in case anything happens during the early healing period.

How soon may I wear makeup after surgery?

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You may wear facial makeup and lipstick the day after surgery. You may resume wearing eye makeup approximately one week after surgery.

How soon can I go back to work/school?

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Many patients are able to return to work or school within 2-3 days, depending on their occupation. Consult with your ophthalmologist about how soon you may return to work or school after cataract surgery.

What restrictions do I have after the surgery?

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First week after surgery:

  • No heavy lifting (>15 lbs.), excessive bending, exercise, or exertional activity
  • No eye make up
  • Avoid direct contact of water with the eyes during showering
  • Avoid submerging your face in water
  • Wear the eye shields while napping or sleeping
  • Avoid dirty environments, like camping, hiking, or gardening

First 2 weeks after surgery:

  • No swimming
  • No hot tubs
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Layton Location

1580 West Antelope Drive
Suite 175
Layton, UT 84041

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3988 Washington Blvd
South Ogden, UT 84403

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Clinic Hours:
Mon - Fri: 8:00 am - 5:00 pm
Optical Hours:
Mon - Fri: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm

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Mon - Fri: 9:00 am - 5:00 pm