Cataract surgery has transformed throughout the years into a quick and efficient outpatient surgery. At Minnesota Eye Consultants, we merge state-of-the-art technology with expert care to provide top-tier cataract surgery to help you achieve your vision goals. Read on to learn more about the cataract surgery journey, the science behind intraocular lenses (IOLs), and vision packages at Minnesota Eye Consultants designed to meet your visual needs.
What is a Cataract?
Cataracts are when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy. As the lens becomes cloudy, it inhibits the passage of light to the retina, often leaving patients feeling as though they are looking through a fog.
Symptoms of Cataracts
- Cloudy vision
- Blurred or dimmed vision, particularly at night
- Sensitivity to light and glare
- Visual distortions
- Increased nearsightedness
- Difficulty reading
- Fading or yellowing of colors
- Double vision
If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, you can take our online cataract self-test and/or request an appointment online or call (952) 888-5800.
The Cataract Surgery Process
Pre-Operative Preparation
- Consultation and Evaluation: Your eye surgeon will conduct a series of eye examinations to determine the extent of the cataract. Your pupil will be dilated to examine the natural lens, the retina, and any other possible eye problems.
- Choosing a Lens Replacement: Our cataract specialists will ask multiples questions to learn more about your visual goals following surgery. This will entail questions about your lifestyle, previous vision history, and more.
The Day of Surgery
All patients will be given a packet and directions on the exact timing of the procedure.
- Pre-Operative Care: Patients will be administered eye drops to dilate the pupil and anesthetize the eye. You will also be given an IV for any medications needed to help relax during the surgery.
- Procedure: The surgery itself usually takes about 15-20 minutes. After the eye is anesthetized, the surgeon will make a small incision in the cornea, so an ultrasound probe can break up the cloudy lens which is then gently suctioned out. Lastly, the IOL is inserted to replace the natural lens.
- Post-Operative Care: After surgery, patients are taken to a recovery area where the medical team monitors initial recovery and ensures comfortability. Instructions for home care and medications are reviewed and an eye shield is placed for protection. You will be discharged the day of your surgery, and your arranged driver will take you home. Follow up visits are usually scheduled for the next day to ensure proper healing and to monitor visual improvement.
The Science Behind Intraocular Lenses (IOLs)
Intraocular lenses are artificial lenses implanted in the eye to replace the natural lens. Premium IOLs have revolutionized cataract surgery, offering patients various options to suit their vision needs.
How IOLs Work:
- Material: IOLs are made from biocompatible materials that are safe for the eye.
- Design: The lenses are engineered to focus light precisely on the retina, restoring clear vision.
- Customization: Advanced measurements are taken to ensure each IOL is tailored to the patient’s unique eye characteristics.
IOL Vision Packages at Minnesota Eye Consultants
We offer a variety of vision packages tailored to meet the diverse needs of patients at Minnesota Eye Consultants. Explore a few of our vision packages below or view all options here.
- Mono Vision Package: The standard monofocal lens is typically covered by insurance. Mono Vision, which corrects one eye for distance and the other for near vision, can reduce dependence on glasses, but adaptation varies.
- Premium Vison Packages: Some patients choose an option from this package such as the Astigmatism Package, Presbyopia Specialty Package, or the Light Adjustable Lens, to enhance vision. These elective options are out-of-pocket expenses. The discussion about your visual goals with your provider will determine the best lens option for you.
- Astigmatism Package – an astigmatism can be corrected with a Toric Lens Implant. This lens can reduce or eliminate corneal astigmatism, significantly improving distance vision, but the patient may still need reading glasses.
- Presbyopia Specialty Lens Package – this age-related loss of near vision can be addressed with the Multifocal, Accommodative Lenses, Extended Depth of Focus Lens, and the Tencis Symfony IOL offering less dependence on glasses and improved ability to switch between near and far vision.
- Light Adjustable Lense Package (LAL) – LAL is a revolution option that allows post-surgery adjustments to fine-tune vision. With this lens patients are given three opportunities to “test-drive” their vision before they have to lock it in.
Concerned You May Have Cataracts?
If you’ve noticed any symptoms of cataracts, we recommend scheduling an evaluation with one of our cataract specialists. If cataract surgery is recommended, your surgeon will partner with you to understand your visual goals. Together you will decide on a lens implant suited for your needs. To scheduled with Minnesota Eye Consultants today, call (952) 888-5800 or request an appointment online.
