What Are Cataracts?

A cataract is clouding of the natural lens of the eye. As the cataract worsens, the quality or sharpness of vision may deteriorate, especially in very bright or very dim light. Cataracts are common with age and can occur in one or both eyes. The clouding of the lens usually happens slowly over time, although, it can happen very quickly in some cases.

Are Cataracts Painful?

Cataracts are not painful; however, you may notice some of the following symptoms: blurry or cloudy vision, glare when driving or reading, dulling of colors, frequently changing glasses prescriptions, or fine details becoming harder to see.

How Are Cataracts Treated?

Cataract surgery is the only way to remove a cataract and restore clear vision. Cataract surgery is recommended when the cataracts begin to limit your activities. The procedure is performed as an outpatient at a hospital or surgery center and takes approximately 20 minutes. During cataract surgery the natural lens of your eye is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular implant. The procedure is performed on one eye at a time. Cataract surgery is virtually painless and recovery is quick. Most cataract surgery can be performed without stitches or injections.

Our surgeons have performed thousands of cataract operations using the latest state-of-the-art techniques. If you have any questions or would like to schedule a consultation with our doctors, please visit our "Frequently Asked Question" page and our "Contact us" page, or simply give us a call at (516) 785-3900.