In recent years, cataract surgery has evolved as more than a procedure for restoring sight. Cataract surgery has become an opportunity to refine and optimize your vision for your lifestyle. In addition to standard cataract removal, Minnesota Eye Consultants offers a range of premium cataract packages to enhance your vision. Our packages include advanced lens options that address specific refractive issues such as astigmatism and presbyopia. These lenses are designed to provide clearer vision and reduce your reliance on corrective eyewear, giving you a more customized visual experience.  

Astigmatism Correction Package 

The Astigmatism Correction Package is designed to address both cataracts and astigmatism to provide clearer, sharper vision after surgery. This can be accomplished in a few different ways.  

• Toric Lens Implants (Toric IOLs): These lenses have specific orientations to correct astigmatism, providing enhanced vision for distance. It’s important to note Toric lenses focus on one visual goal—usually distance vision. As a result, reading glasses may still be required for near and intermediate tasks.  

• Astigmatic Keratotomy (AK): This procedure creates tiny incisions in the cornea to alter its curvature and reduce astigmatism. AK is ideal for patients with minimal to moderate degrees of astigmatism.  

The Astigmatism Correction Package is a great choice for patients seeking to correct their astigmatism during cataract surgery and experience improved visual clarity without relying on glasses or contacts for distance.  

Presbyopia Specialty Lens Package  

Presbyopia is an age-related condition that affects near vision as one ages. The natural lens in our eyes becomes less flexible as we age, making it harder to shift focus between objects near and far. Therefore, individuals who never needed glasses may find themselves reaching for readers or bifocals. Minnesota Eye Consultants’ Presbyopia Specialty Lens Package offers advanced lenses that mimic the natural lens’ ability to focus on multiple distances. Some of these lenses are:  

• Multifocal Lens: This lens is designed to provide clear vision at near, intermediate, and distance ranges. It works by dividing light into different focal points and offers a great chance for reducing your need for glasses after cataract surgery. 

• Accommodative Lens: This lens contains tiny hinges that change position when focusing on an object. This technology can reduce dependency on glasses as patients can better focus on near, far, and intermediate distances.  

• Extended Depth of Focus Lens (EDOF): The Tecnis Symfony IOL is the first FDA-approved EDOF lens in the United States. It creates a continuous range of vision resulting in good distance and near vision, providing clarity at all ranges and minimizing visual disruptions. 

Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) Package  

Imagine being able to test your vision before finalizing it. The Light Adjustable Lens Package offers precisely that. This revolutionary technology allows for postoperative adjustments to fine-tune your vision to your liking. Using a series of light treatments, your prescription can be adjusted to correct nearsightedness, farsightedness, or astigmatism. Most patients require two to five adjustments before locking in their vision.  

This lens is ideal for patients who want to experience their vison options before making a final commitment. With LAL, the results are a truly tailored visual outcome that fits your unique lifestyle.  

Which Package is Right for You?  

Understanding your unique vision goals for your lifestyle will help you choose the right cataract package. At Minnesota Eye Consultants, our experienced surgeons use advanced diagnostic technology and a patient-centered approach to help guide you through this decision. Whether you’re looking to address astigmatism, achieve multifocal clarity, or experience personalized vision with Light Adjustable Lens, we’ll ensure that your cataract surgery is tailored to provide the best possible outcome.  

Take advantage of our free online cataract self-test to see if you’re a candidate for cataract surgery, contact Minnesota Eye Consultants at (952) 888-5800 or request an appointment to schedule a consultation. With the right premium cataract lens choice, you can embrace a future with clear customized vision. 

The post Premium Cataract Packages: Tailoring Vision for a Personalized Experience  appeared first on Minnesota Eye Consultants.

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.

The post Cataract Surgery Explained & the Science Behind IOLs appeared first on Minnesota Eye Consultants.

Spring is the season of renewal and rejuvenation, with the trees budding, the birds singing, and tax refunds being deposited! As we emerge from the cocoon of winter and warm up to summer, it’s an ideal time to invest in your vision health. At Minnesota Eye Consultants, we’re passionate about helping you seize this opportunity to enhance your quality of life through vision correction procedures and treatments. Discover how your tax refund can pave the way for clearer vision and a brighter future.  

LASIK: Say goodbye to glasses and contacts with LASIK surgery. This popular procedure can correct refractive errors, allowing you to see clearly without the need for corrective lenses. Not a candidate for LASIK? We’ve got you covered! Our doctors offer an array of vision correction treatment options to help you achieve your vision goals. Pair your tax refund with Minnesota Eye Consultants’ exclusive LASIK discount running now until June 30, 2024. For a limited time, we’re offering $300 OFF per eye on LASIK if you have the procedure by June 30, 2024! Enjoy the freedom of clear vision this summer with LASIK.  

Cataract Surgery: If cataracts are clouding your vision and impacting your quality of life, cataract surgery can help. Using advanced technology, our surgeons remove the cataracts and replace them with artificial lenses, restoring clear vision and improving your overall well-being. Some people will further their dependence on glasses after cataract surgery and opt for one of our premium vision correction packages  . These packages offer the use of advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs), and/or innovative technologies and techniques to help improve vision post-surgery. You can learn more about the vision correction packages by clicking here. By using your tax refund to invest in cataract surgery and premium lenses, you can regain the clarity of vision you deserve.  

Dry Eye Services: As an accredited Dry Eye Center, our dry eye services can provide relief and improve your comfort, allowing you to see clearly and enjoy greater overall eye health. From advanced diagnostic testing to personalized treatment plans, we’re here to help you find relief from dry eye symptoms.

Oculoplastic Services: Your eyes are not only essential for vision but may also play a significant role in your self-confidence. Our oculoplastic services focus on enhancing both the aesthetics and function of the eyelids and surrounding facial areas. Whether you’re interested in blepharoplasty (eyelid surgery) or brow and forehead lifts, our skilled oculoplastic surgeons can help you achieve natural-looking results while maintaining eye function and feeling more confident in your appearance. 

Cosmetic &Aesthetic Services: Looking to refresh your appearance and enhance your natural beauty? With our cosmetic and aesthetic services, you can address common concerns like crow’s feet, under-eye bags, and facial expression lines. Using minimally invasive techniques and advanced technology, our providers can help you achieve a more youthful and vibrant look, all while maintaining the health and integrity of your eyes. 

Financing Options: At Minnesota Eye Consultants, we understand that investing in your vision is essential, but we also recognize the importance of making it financially manageable. CareCredit and Alphaeon Credit offer flexible payment plans with low monthly payments. These financing options can help make your eye care goals more affordable, so you can have the treatment done now, and pay over time  

Tax refunds provide an opportunity to invest in vision health and improve your quality of life. Whether you’re interested in LASIK, cataract surgery, dry eye services, oculoplastic procedures, or cosmetic/aesthetic treatments, Minnesota Eye Consultants is here to help. Our team of specialized eye care providers is dedicated to delivering exceptional care and life-changing results. Contact us today to schedule a consultation and learn more about how we can help you achieve your spring vision goals. Call to schedule at 952-888-5800 or request an appointment here.  

The post Maximize Your Tax Return: Invest in Clearer Vision appeared first on Minnesota Eye Consultants.

What is the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL)?

The LAL is an innovative lens technology that gives patients the option to control and customize their vision after cataract surgery. Unlike traditional intraocular lenses, the Light Adjustable Lens allows cataract patients to work with their eye doctors in adjusting their prescription and optimizing their vision after surgery and test drive their vision before the final adjustment.

What are the benefits of the Light Adjustable Lens?

The LAL gives patients customized vision, and many patients have told our doctors at Minnesota Eye Consultants that cataract surgery with the LAL was an enormous life-changing milestone for them! By correcting astigmatism, farsightedness, and nearsightedness, the LAL has the ability to significantly reduce reliance on glasses.

Who is a good candidate for Light Adjustable Lens?

The LAL is a great fit for patients who want the best quality vision at all distances.

Patients should consult their eye doctor to see if they are a good candidate for the LAL. At Minnesota Eye Consultants, we assess each patient’s eye health, lifestyle, and visual goals before determining if they are an ideal candidate for the LAL. 

How does the Light Adjustable Lens work?

The lens is made from a unique photosensitive material that allows us to alter the shape of the implanted lens with UV Light following surgery. The LAL will be implanted in the eye, and after the eye has healed, UV light adjustments can be made in an office setting. The LAL allows 3 to 4 adjustments (light treatments) in order to optimize the patient’s vision after surgery. The number of treatments depends on the patient’s desired customization, vision goals, and more. The doctor works with the patient and their co-managing doctor throughout the adjustment process.

What do post-op care and light treatments look like?

After cataract surgery with the LAL, patients will be given UV-protective glasses to keep sunlight from the intraocular lens during the light treatment period. The eye doctor and their care team will work with the patient during the light treatment period to meet the patient’s desired visual outcome. Since the lens will be customized at each light treatment session, the patient will be allowed to decide what prescription suits them.

The first light treatment usually starts 2-3 weeks after the cataract surgery. As soon as the patient’s desired prescription is met, the doctor customizes the lens with the final light treatment.

Support from our team of experts

At Minnesota Eye Consultants, we want patients and their eye doctors to be well-educated on new lens technology and innovations in cataracts, so they make informed decisions. To schedule a cataract evaluation or to find out if you’re the right candidate for the Light Adjustable Lens, please call us at (952) 888-5800. Visit our cataracts page to learn more about what to expect during a cataract evaluation and surgery.

The post Light Adjustable Lens: Breakthrough Technology in Cataract Care appeared first on Minnesota Eye Consultants.

We are very proud of Dr. Thomas Samuelson who was recently named the program chair for the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS). Dr. Samuelson, who specializes in Glaucoma, Cataract, and Refractive Surgery, has been an integral part of ASCRS for many years. He is honored to be a part of a prestigious ophthalmic society like ASCRS.

“I consider it a tremendous honor to become just the fourth program chair in the history of ASCRS, the premier ophthalmic surgery society in the USA,” Dr. Samuelson said.

ASCRS’s mission is to empower anterior segment surgeons with advanced approaches to education, advocacy, and philanthropy so they can continue to improve their patients’ vision, outcomes, and overall quality of life. Dr. Samuelson held previous roles such as the ASCRS Glaucoma Clinical Committee Chairman and was named ASCRS president in 2018. He was also a member of the ASCRS Governing Board. As the new program chair, his goal is to continue to make strides that will improve surgical options for the benefit of patients.

“I will work closely with my program committee to bring creative, cutting-edge, educational programming to ASCRS members. Ophthalmic surgery is high tech and ever changing. We will continue to connect ASCRS surgeons with our innovative industry partners to advance surgical options for our patients,” Dr. Samuelson said.

In addition to his leadership roles, Dr. Samuelson regularly plays a significant part in educating the ophthalmic community. At the ASCRS meeting in May 2023, Dr. Samuelson co-authored two paper sessions on glaucoma and was a panelist for a main-stage lecture. He also delivered the glaucoma presentation during the inaugural Lindstrom Symposium at the 2021 ASCRS Annual Meeting.

Our physicians at Minnesota Eye Consultants are committed to making a positive impact in the ophthalmic world by networking, educating, researching, participating in innovative technology, and more. Dr. Samuelson is a textbook example of how Minnesota Eye Consultants continues to play a significant role at the national level in both ophthalmology and optometry. 

“Our practice has had two ASCRS Presidents and several of our MDs and ODs have national and international prominence of which we can all be very proud. Minnesota Eye is well known around the globe for excellence in medical and surgical eye care,” Dr. Samuelson said.

The post American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS) Names Dr. Thomas Samuelson As Program Chair appeared first on Minnesota Eye Consultants.

5 Facts About Cataracts You Didn’t Know

What are cataracts? Cataracts are an opacity or clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye, which lies behind the iris and the pupil.

Cataracts is one of the most common eye disorders in the United States and around the world. Prevent Blindness America designated June as Cataract Awareness Month, to raise awareness of this disease, as not a lot of people understand the causes, symptoms, and treatment options available.

Here are five cataract facts you may not know:

1. Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss in the U.S.

According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it is estimated that nearly 30 million Americans have cataracts.

2. You can be born with Cataracts.

This is rare, but some babies are born with cataracts, a condition known as congenital cataracts. Approximately one-third of congenital cataracts are a component of a more extensive syndrome or disease (e.g., cataract resulting from congenital rubella syndrome), one-third occur as an isolated inherited trait, and one-third result from undetermined causes.

3. One out of every six Americans over 40 has cataracts.

When most people think of cataracts, they think it only affects the elderly. Although anyone can have cataracts, symptoms for some begin as early as 40 and the likelihood of developing cataracts doubles by the time you are 50 By age 80, over 50% of Americans have cataracts.

4. Smoking and excessive sun exposure adds to the risk of developing cataracts.

Wearing sunglasses and kicking that smoking habit are two very important tips for protecting your eyes. Smoking doubles the risk for cataracts and Ultraviolet rays from the sun can promote cataract development.

5. Surgery is the only effective treatment for cataracts.

The eye’s natural lens is permanently damaged by cataracts. Therefore, the only way to fix it is to surgically replace the lens with an artificial one. Cataract surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures in the world.

If you are experiencing symptoms of cataracts or are dealing with deteriorating vision loss, Minnesota Eye Consultants can help. The first step in determining whether you have cataracts is to schedule an appointment with one of our cataract removal specialists. Take our online cataract self-test or call (952) 888-5800 to schedule an appointment.

The post Cataracts Awareness Month appeared first on Minnesota Eye Consultants.

We know that many of you have special questions and concerns about having cataract surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic. Some of you may have postponed a scheduled cataract surgery in the last few months or others may have noticed bothersome changes to your vision that could be the signs of a cataract.

Only an eye specialist can determine whether you have a cataract or another type of vision problem. Please know that it is perfectly safe to schedule your eye exam or cataract surgery evaluation at Minnesota Eye Consultants. We are taking extraordinary safeguards to protect you from contracting COVID-19.

Keep reading to learn more about cataracts and why Cataract Awareness Month is important!

Is This the Right Time to Have Cataract Surgery?

Most ophthalmologists recommend cataract surgery when patients feel that a cataract is interfering with their job, driving, or quality of life. There have been many advances in cataract care over the years.

Minnesota Eye Consultants offers laser-based cataract surgery as an option for patients. Laser cataract surgery makes it easier to break up the eye’s natural lens and remove it before replacing it with an artificial lens or IOL.

If you are worried about having eye surgery during the pandemic, rest assured that it is extremely safe! The Minnesota Eye team is taking every possible precaution to protect you before, during, and after surgery.

Our eye surgery centers have always maintained the highest standards for infection control and continue to evolve our processes as new COVID-19 recommendations are published. Now we have added new measures that are recommended by the CDC and Minnesota public health officials.

All patients and staff will have their temperatures taken when entering the building. We have established social distancing measures during the registration and waiting process.

Our surgical staff is wearing appropriate protective equipment, including surgical grade masks and goggles. The pre- and post-op areas and the surgical suite are thoroughly cleaned and disinfected between patients. All patients are asked to wear a mask and kept at a safe distance from one another.

These precautions ensure that you will be as safe as possible when you undergo cataract surgery at Minnesota Eye Consultants.

How Do You Know If You Have a Cataract?

Before you have cataract surgery, you first need to know that you have cataracts. Only an eye care specialist is qualified to diagnose you with cataracts, which is why regular eye exams are so important. Many patients with cataracts describe having them like looking at the world through a foggy window. Common symptoms of cataracts include the following:
● Trouble driving at night
● Bright glare from headlights or sunlight
● Halos around headlights
● Difficulty reading
● Colors seem faded
● Double vision
● Blurry vision

Cataracts often progress very slowly. Many people have early-stage cataracts for years before they need surgery. It’s important to take care of yourself in the early stages of cataracts.

How To Take Care of Yourself if You Have Early-Stage Cataracts

If you know that you have early-stage cataracts, taking care of yourself is key. Make sure that your eyes are as healthy as possible. If you do notice that anything seems off, like your vision has changed, see your eye doctor.

We recommend the following tips:

● Have a comprehensive eye examination with dilating drops every year if you are over the age of 65. If you are under the age of 65, you should have one every two years to monitor any cataract progression.
● Wear good quality sunglasses with 100% UV protection to protect the eyes. Avoiding damaging UV rays may actually slow down the growth of the cataract.
● If you are having trouble reading, use brighter lights and a magnifier.
● Make sure you have an updated prescription for your glasses or contacts to ensure safety, especially when driving. If you ever feel unsafe while driving, it’s time to get off the road. Find a friend or family member that can drive you around instead. This is the safest option until you can have your cataracts removed!
● Quit smoking.
● If you have diabetes, keep your A1C and blood pressure under control and at healthy levels.

Questions to Ask Your Eye Surgeon About Cataract Surgery

We recommend that you bring a list of your questions and concerns to your cataract surgery evaluation. Here are some suggested questions that you may want to ask:

● Is there anything that I need to do to prepare for surgery? What about taking my normal medications?
● What is a typical recovery after cataract surgery?
● When will I be able to drive again?
● When can I exercise?
● Will I still need glasses after my cataract surgery?
● How will I manage my glasses if I am going to have surgery on the other eye soon?
● What is the difference between monofocal lenses and premium lenses?
● What is the difference between standard cataract surgery and laser-assisted cataract surgery? Which one do you recommend for me?
● Will my insurance cover cataract surgery?
● What are the costs if I choose to have premium lenses?

What are the possible side effects or complications of the surgery?

Before any procedure at Minnesota Eye Consultants, it’s important to feel as comfortable as possible. Having questions about cataract surgery answered before undergoing the procedure ensures that you know what to expect from start to finish.

What Happens During Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is a quick outpatient surgery. There are some pre-operative procedures, but the actual surgery is amazingly fast! It usually takes less than a half-hour to complete.

When you arrive at the eye surgery center, the staff will wash and clean the area around your eyes. Drops are then inserted to dilate your pupils.

After dilating your pupils, anesthetic eye drops will numb the eye. Most patients are awake and feel no pain during the procedure. You may be given medication to help you relax if you are anxious before the procedure begins.

Your Minnesota Eye surgeon will enter the eye through tiny incisions made with a laser or blade near the edge of the cornea. The next step is to remove the clouded natural lens from your eye and replace it with the artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Usually, no stitches are necessary, and the tiny incisions close by themselves.

What Happens After Surgery?

You will recover briefly at the center before receiving your discharge instructions. Our staff will cover your eye to protect it for at least 24 hours.

You will need to insert prescription eye drops at regular intervals for several weeks to heal the eye and prevent infection. Most patients return for a postoperative visit on the day after surgery.

It’s especially important to follow the post-operative instructions that you are given. Finally, you must arrange for someone to drive you home after surgery as you can’t drive yourself home.

Think that you may need cataract surgery? Schedule your cataract screening at Minnesota Eye Consultants in Minneapolis, MN today! We look forward to seeing you for a cataract evaluation soon!

The post June Is Cataract Awareness Month appeared first on Minnesota Eye Consultants.

These are all classic signs of having a cataract. If you suspect you have cataracts, visit Minnesota Eye Consultants in Bloomington, MN for a cataract screening!

1. Your vision is cloudy or blurry

Cloudy or blurry vision is one of the most common signs of having a cataract. Cataracts occur because the naturally clear lens becomes cloudy.

Over time, proteins in the lens start to clump together in the center. This will eventually lead to vision impairment.

Patients who have a cataract often describe it as trying to look through a foggy window. Having cloudy or blurry vision can make everyday tasks much more difficult than they used to be.

2. Becoming more sensitive to light

Another one of the more common signs you may have a cataract is light sensitivity. A misconception about cataracts is that once you know you have one, you need cataract surgery.

This isn’t true. For many people, a cataract could begin developing as early as their forties or fifties. Cataracts don’t become a problem (meaning they don’t need removal) until they are impacting your vision.

If you’ve become more sensitive to light, this is often a sign that it might be time to consider cataract surgery. With light sensitivity, many patients find that it becomes harder to drive at night.

3. Noticing your prescription keeps changing

The only way to treat cataracts is by removing them during cataract surgery. But before that point, you can still adjust your glasses and contact prescriptions to some extent.

As cataracts develop, they can cause prescription fluctuations. If you notice that your prescription for glasses is changing, this is a common sign of cataracts.

This is a fluctuation that isn’t once a year, either. If you have cataracts, you may notice that your prescription is changing a couple of times a month. Unfortunately, as cataracts continue to develop, there is a point where a prescription change will no longer improve your vision, and surgery may be recommended.

At this point, it’s a good idea to consider a cataract screening at Minnesota Eye Consultants!

4. Colors don’t look as crisp as they used to or they seem yellow

Does the world around you seem faded, like a watercolor left out in the sun for too long? This is another sign that you may have cataracts.

Colors seem faded, and it can be difficult for patients with cataracts to tell the difference between blue and green. If it seems like things have more of a yellow or brown tint to them than they once did, this is a sign of advanced cataracts.

This is because the lens will turn more yellow or brown over time, which makes your vision even cloudier.

5. Driving at night means halos, glares, and eye pain

Most signs of having a cataract aren’t dangerous, but driving at night is a different story. Driving at night with cataracts brings on a whole other set of problems.

If you have light sensitivity, headlights from oncoming traffic can cause pain. Oncoming traffic can also bring halos and glare, which make driving distracting.

If you think that you have a cataract, you should stop driving at night altogether. It’s safer to ask a friend or family member to drive you around at night.

Glare and halos can make it harder to see stoplights, as well as stop signs and brake lights in front of you. If you suspect you have cataracts, schedule an appointment for a cataract screening. This should happen sooner rather than later!

6. Experiencing double vision in one eye

As a cataract continues to develop, it takes over more and more of your natural lens. In some cases, cataract patients will experience double vision in one eye.

This means that you’ll see two or more images of a single object at the same time. Although this is a sign of cataracts, it can also be a sign of other, more serious medical problems.

You should let your doctor know if you are experiencing double vision in one eye. If you don’t have a cataract, they can check your eyes to find out what is causing it.

7. Completing up-close tasks (like reading) becomes more difficult

Although it’s common for your vision to worsen as you get older, having a cataract can make up-close tasks harder. This is especially true with tasks like reading or knitting.

If you have a cataract, you may find that you need brighter, more focused light to see while reading or doing other near-range activities. Cataracts make these tasks more difficult because they take up more and more of the lens over time.

Without treatment, advanced cataracts can potentially lead to blindness. The good news? Cataracts are completely treatable!

When you have cataract surgery, the natural lens is replaced with an artificial lens or IOL. Once the IOL replaces the lens, patients with cataracts can finally see clearly again!

Ready to say goodbye to your cataracts? Schedule a cataract screening at Minnesota Eye Consultants in Bloomington, MN now! What do you have to lose except your cataract afflicted vision?

The post 7 Signs It Could Be A Cataract appeared first on Minnesota Eye Consultants.

Cataracts, the leading cause of blindness in the world are a common age-related condition. Nearly 25 million Americans who are 40 and over develop cataracts, a clumping of proteins in the lens, which causes cloudy or blurry vision, and can eventually result in loss of vision.

Even though cataracts are a very common condition and cataract surgery to remove cataracts is safe and effective, there are still urban legends we’d like to address. Let’s sort out fact from fiction.

Urban Legend #1: Seniors Are The Only Ones Affected

Truth: While cataracts are common enough in seniors that more than half of all Americans have cataracts or have had cataract surgery by the age of 80, “age-related” is a misnomer. People can begin to develop cataracts as early as their forties, but not experience significant vision loss that cannot be corrected with prescription eyeglasses or contacts until their sixties and older.

Urban Legend #2: There’s Nothing You Can Do

Truth: The truth is that cataracts can’t be prevented, but there are steps you can take to slow their progression and possibly also reduce your risk of developing them. Tips include:

• Always wearing UVB sunglasses to protect your eyes when outdoors
• Eating a healthy “vision-rich” diet full of antioxidants
• Quitting smoking (or never starting)
• Taking your vitamins

There are a few factors that cannot be avoided for many. Women and those who already have diabetes are at higher risk for developing cataracts.  

Urban Legend #3: Cataracts Grows Back After Surgery

Truth: To understand why this urban legend is, in fact, false, you need to understand that a cataract develops within the lens. A cataract is not a film or growth that covers the iris and therefore cannot grow back after your surgery. On the same note, and because cataracts are not a film covering the iris, eye drops cannot “dissolve” your cataracts.

Urban Legend #4: Your Only Treatment Option is Surgery

Truth: Surgery is almost never the first step for cataract treatment, especially in early stages. Mild symptoms can be improved with prescription eyeglasses or contacts, anti-glare sunglasses (preferably with UVB lenses), and brighter lighting. If and when your cataracts grow large enough to cause significant vision reduction and interrupt your normal activities such as your ability to drive or even enjoy a new favorite novel, surgery then becomes the only effective treatment option.

Urban Legend #5: Cataract Surgery is Painful (and Risky!)

Truth: Every surgical procedure carries a certain level of risk, but cataract surgery is the most frequently performed procedure in the country. In fact, the surgery has a 95 percent success rate!

Thanks to medical and technological advances, cataract surgery no longer requires long hospital stays and recovery periods. Currently, cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure completed in about an hour at Minnesota Eye Consultants. Your eyes will be numbed so pain will be minimal, and you will be back on your feet by the next day! Just be sure to follow your surgeon’s post-operative directions, which include avoidance of bending or heavy lifting for the first three weeks.

Have additional questions about cataract surgery? Schedule a consultation with one of our doctors at Minnesota Eye Consultants today!

The post 5 Cataract Urban Legends appeared first on Minnesota Eye Consultants.

It’s okay to rely on others when recovering from surgery. In fact, it is necessary for a large part of it. For example, in many surgeries, especially eye surgeries such as cataract removal, you will not be able to drive yourself home. Whether you get a taxi service or a close friend to bring you home is up to you, but the point stands that you will need help. However, there are plenty of things that you can aid yourself with. Here are some ways you can ensure that your cataract surgery recovery goes as smoothly as possible!

Get Plenty of Rest

This is especially important directly after the surgery. Your body will most likely be exhausted from going through surgery, minimally invasive as it is, so don’t resist the urge to sleep. Just make sure you wear your protective eye shield while you rest to avoid damaging your sensitive eyes. Chances are you will be able to remove the protection within hours of the surgery, but for the following few days, you will need to reapply it.

Avoid Direct Sunlight

UV rays are harmful to our eyes, but after surgery, your eyes will be even more susceptible to their damaging radiation. If you can’t avoid sunlight for some reason, make sure to wear the funny looking sunglasses that you will be given. They will protect your eyes from harsh glare and will help you stay comfortable as you rest.

Avoid Unnecessary Dangers

This may sound obvious, but many activities that are normally considered mundane are actually unsafe for eyes after surgery. Things like heavy lifting, strenuous exercise, and contact sports all risk seriously damaging your eyes. It is especially important to avoid rubbing your eyes, as your cornea will be in a very vulnerable state and will be prone to tearing. Your eyes will also be more prone to infection. Avoid swimming, wearing makeup, using facial lotion, going outside when it’s windy, and try not to open your eyes in the shower too much as it will allow outside irritants to get inside.

Lubricate Your Eyes

Your eyes will most likely feel itchy and have a burning sensation for several days or even a couple weeks after surgery. To help cope with this, use eye drops. Apply them every so often, even if your eyes don’t feel dry. Make sure not to touch the tip of the applicator, as that could introduce germs into your eyes.

Attend Follow Up Appointments

Within the first two days of your surgery, your surgeon will have you come back in to make sure things are progressing and healing normally. You may have to attend a few more visits to make sure no major complications rise up. It is very important that you make time for these. Problems with cataract surgeries are rare, but if they do happen it is better to know early and address it before permanent damage is done.

Recovering from cataract surgery can be a nuisance, but following these tips should help it go that much more smoothly. Have additional questions about cataract surgery? Contact Minnesota Eye Consultants!

The post 4 Self-Care Tips for Cataract Surgery Recovery appeared first on Minnesota Eye Consultants.