Femtosecond laser cataract surgery is a great alternative to traditional cataract surgery. In fact, many ophthalmologists would say it’s an all-around better choice. 

This being said, cataract surgery as a whole is considered an extremely safe and effective surgery. So, whether you opt for laser-assisted cataract surgery or traditional surgery, you can rest easy knowing that you’ve opted for surgery with a high success rate and that you’re on the road to better vision.

But what is femtosecond laser cataract surgery? And what are the advantages of femtosecond laser cataract surgery? Let’s dig a little deeper.

What is a femtosecond laser?

A femtosecond laser is an infrared laser that is leveraged in a handful of different eye surgeries (not just cataract surgery). 

During cataract surgery, the femtosecond laser is used in lieu of a handheld blade to break apart tissue, and it is used in conjunction with a camera and computer to accurately map out the surface of the eye. 

The laser receives information from the computer that tells it where to create an incision — taking into consideration depth and size, as well. All of these steps result in more precision and predictability in femtosecond laser cataract surgery compared to traditional cataract surgery. 

What are the benefits of using a femtosecond laser?

When it comes to laser surgery vs. traditional surgery for cataracts, safety is certainly a benefit with both, and the cataract surgery success rate, in general, sits at around 98%. 

But when it comes to femtosecond laser cataract surgery, in particular, you can expect things to run even more safely and smoothly. This is due to the added precision and predictability of using a computer-controlled laser — as opposed to relying on the skill and expertise your doctor has with a handheld blade.

Reduced likelihood of side effects

Whether you choose to go with traditional or blade-free cataract surgery, you’ll be up against the same side effects — which can include everything from infection and bleeding to detachment and pressure. However, with computer-controlled surgery, the added precision can help you out once again by decreasing your chances of experiencing cataract surgery side effects. 

The quicker, more accurate nature of the laser can only improve the recovery process.

Another thing to consider is that traditional surgery is largely reliant on your surgeon and his or her experience and skill. If your surgeon is not that comfortable with traditional cataract surgery, then you could suffer from a variety of complications, like irregular cuts and trauma. 

With a laser-assisted cataract surgery like femtosecond laser cataract surgery, an irregular cut isn’t a concern, and your eye will be under less trauma since the laser operates in less time than a handheld blade.

Learn more: Is cataract surgery safe? 

Reduced likelihood of manual complications

Femtosecond lasers are extremely precise, consistent, and reliable, and there are a handful of potential issues this laser nearly eliminates simply due to its overall precision. This includes when a cornea flap is cut too thick by the surgeon. 

This particular issue is quite common with traditional cataract surgery and can lead to bulging, which ultimately causes deteriorating vision. Since femtosecond laser cataract surgery maps out the eye and lays out depth and location for the laser, an improperly cut cornea is rare.

Increased likelihood of a seamless recovery

If you were debating between laser-assisted cataract surgery and traditional surgery, the recovery timeline might come up during your decision process. However, when it comes to recovery, there really are no distinct differences between the two surgeries (so long as there are no complications) and you should expect to see clearly within two weeks. 

Keep in mind, though… if you do end up experiencing complications that are typically more common with traditional cataract surgery, then your recovery timeline will be much longer. 

Interested in learning more about femtosecond laser cataract surgery?

If you’ve decided to move forward with cataract surgery but not sure if femtosecond laser cataract surgery is the right choice, we’d love to talk with you. At Eye Center of Texas, we’re home to some of the best cataract surgeons in Houston, and we can help you better understand the benefits of femtosecond laser surgery for cataracts. 

To learn more about laser cataract surgery or to schedule an appointment, give us a call at 713-797-1010, or contact us online.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas: 

• What Causes Macular Degeneration
• What to Expect After Cataract Surgery
• Cataract Lens Options
• Wet vs. Dry Macular Degeneration 
• Can Cataracts Go Away Naturally?

The Houston eye doctors at Eye Center of Texas have been helping Houstonians improve their eye health and vision for over 30 years. We proudly offer cutting-edge treatments and services for cataracts, LASIK, near vision (presbyopia), glaucoma, macular degeneration, keratoconus, other retina and cornea disorders, and eyelid surgery. 

With our 6 convenient locations in Bellaire, Sugar Land, Katy, Pasadena, Clear Lake, and The Woodlands/Conroe, we are able to give thousands of individuals the state-of-the-art treatment and patient-centered care they deserve every year. 

Read on to learn more about our exceptional team and services, then come and see why over 300 Houston-area eye doctors refer their patients directly to Eye Center of Texas! 

Meet our Experienced Eye Doctors in Houston 

Each and every one of our Houston ophthalmologists is board-certified and has specialized in particular aspects of eye health. Over the years, our eye doctors have pioneered new, safer treatments for patients.

Whether you are looking for an ophthalmologist in Katy, Houston, or elsewhere in the greater Houston area, you can rest assured that at Eye Center of Texas you will always be treated by top-tier eye doctors with years of experience in their field.

• Dr. Mark L. Mayo has been recognized repeatedly as a top eye doctor in Houston and was one of the first surgeons in Houston to offer bladeless cataract surgery. He is ranked as one of the nation’s top 10 cataract surgeons for a number of procedures using the LenSx Laser.
• Dr. Edward C. Wade was also one of the first surgeons in Houston to offer bladeless cataract surgery, has been designed by VISX as one of the top 100 LASIK surgeons in the country, and is recognized as having more experience with the ReSTOR IOL than any other surgeon in Houston.
• Dr. Paul J. Stewart specializes in vitreoretinal surgery and ocular oncology. He is the previous director at UCSF’s Ocular Oncology Service, one of the premier ocular oncology practices in the States.
• Dr. Nicholas Bell specializes in the medical, laser, and surgical management of glaucoma. He has been recognized as a Top Ophthalmologist in Houston by the International Association of Ophthalmologists.

Wondering, “Should I see an optometrist or ophthalmologist?” Get the answers you need in our article, What’s the Difference Between an Ophthalmologist and an Optometrist?

Ophthalmology services at Eye Center of Texas

Our eye doctors keep up-to-date with the latest literature and innovations in their fields so that our patients always receive the best treatment options available. 

LASIK & cataract surgery treatment

Eye Center of Texas has earned a special reputation for providing some of the best LASIK in Houston and best cataract surgery in Houston. This is because the quality of the equipment used during surgery and the experience of your surgeon can play an important role in the successful outcome of your procedure, and Eye Center of Texas not only invests in top-of-the-line equipment, but our Houston ophthalmologists are also leaders in their fields. 

Near vision (presbyopia) treatment 

Most individuals will experience presbyopia, the age-related hardening of your lens also known as “near vision,” to some extent during their lifetimes (typically after the age of 40). Eye Center of Texas offers the latest in near vision treatment that allows our patients to stay or become independent of glasses and contacts. 

Eye disease treatment

The eye is a highly complex organ and contains many components that can develop diseases or disorders. Eye Center of Texas provides thorough and patient-centered eye disease treatment for retina issues, cornea issues, and more. Our specialists will work closely with you to monitor your eye health and offer you treatment solutions using the latest, cutting-edge technology and medicine. 

Eyelid surgery

Excess skin and/or fat that causes your upper eyelids to hang over your eyes can impede vision, cause chronic irritation, and even make you look more tired than you feel. Our upper eyelid surgery in Houston (Blepharoplasty) can rid you of these frustrating vision problems while simultaneously providing you with a rejuvenated appearance. 

Our eye doctors in Houston are here to help you get the information and treatment you need

At Eye Center of Texas, our Houston eye doctors are not just leaders in the field of ophthalmology — we are avid Houstonians. We are active members of this city and the surrounding area and therefore take special pride in helping our community find relief from eye diseases and see more clearly with improved vision. 

If you are experiencing vision or eye health problems and want to work with an ophthalmologist in Houston you can count on, consider joining the Eye Center of Texas’s family of patients. 

Call us at 713-797-1010 for medical services, 713-395-1515 for LASIK, or simply request an appointment online today. 

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas: 

• What Causes Macular Degeneration? 
• What to Expect After Cataract Surgery
• Cataract Surgery Lens Options
• Wet vs. Dry Macular Degeneration
• Can Cataracts Go Away Naturally?

It’s important to know what to expect after LASIK surgery. This way, you can avoid unnecessary complications and guarantee a smooth recovery process.

LASIK is a highly effective vision correction surgery. It can have profound and lasting improvements on your vision, and post-surgery complications are extremely rare. However, the average LASIK recovery time can be up to 6 months, and this timeline can become even longer if you partake in certain activities or fail to properly care for your eyes post-surgery.

To make sure your recovery process isn’t hindered, we’ll cover what to expect after LASIK, including LASIK recovery tips and potential complications.

How long does it take for your eye to heal after LASIK?

As we just mentioned, the LASIK recovery time period lasts around 6 months. However, this is in total, and it does not mean you’ll be down for the count the entire 6 months. In fact, you can resume most normal activities after the first 24 hours. This includes driving, working, and reading. 

If you’re wondering, “Can you watch TV after LASIK?”, then you’ll be happy to know that this activity can also be resumed after 24 hours. 

Within the first week, you might notice some light sensitivity and minor eye irritation that may give you the urge to rub your eyes. In fact, approximately 95% of patients said they experienced dry eyes after LASIK. However, after the first few weeks, these side effects should almost completely disappear. For most LASIK patients, it seems that the recovery process ends right around this time. You will be able to resume nearly all normal activities (including swimming), you shouldn’t feel any further irritation, and you won’t need to wear any eye coverings.

This being said, your eyes, especially the corneal flap (to many patients’ concern), will continue to heal (even if it isn’t noticeable) up to the 6-month mark.

What should I avoid after LASIK? 

If you really want to know what to expect after LASIK, then you need to understand that there are a handful of normal activities that you need to avoid at all costs — at least for a certain time period. Here are some of the activities to avoid after your LASIK surgery:

• Do not drive, get on an airplane, or watch TV for 24-48 hours 
• • Do not wear makeup, exercise, or apply facial creams for the first week

• Avoid getting shampoo/soap in your eyes when you shower

• Do not wear contact lenses, play contact sports, or swim for up to a month

Our favorite LASIK recovery tips  

One of the best LASIK recovery tips we can offer is to make sure you avoid the list of items up above for the recommended amount of time. Below are additional tips to help make your recovery process as easy and smooth as possible.

• Remember to protect your eyes from the sun. Wear sunglasses and eye coverings when necessary.
• The recovery process is different for everyone. Stay in contact with your doctor if you have any questions or concerns.
• Attend all follow-up appointments, even if you feel you don’t need to attend them.
• Take all medications (and avoid others) as prescribed by your doctor (learn more about the recommended eye drops after LASIK).
• Ask a friend to help you out during the first day or two after the procedure. Remember, you won’t be able to drive or watch TV, which means you’ll need a ride home from the doctor’s and you may want some company. Learn more about how to help care for someone after LASIK.

What are the risks of LASIK?

Risks or complications associated with LASIK are rare. The only real concern is the possibility of infection. However, this only occurs if you’re not following our LASIK recovery tips and failing to avoid all the unsafe post-LASIK activities. For example, if you decide to swim before the first month is up, there’s a likelihood that you could suffer from some type of bacterial infection.

If you are still concerned about potential issues arising after your operation, speak with your doctor before undergoing LASIK surgery. They’ll be able to reassure you of the benefits of this low-risk procedure.

Ready to get started with LASIK? Contact Eye Center of Texas today.

With over 75,000 successful LASIK eye surgeries under our belt, we’ve quickly become the go-to spot for LASIK surgery in Texas. Our vision experts can help you understand what to expect after LASIK and provide you with the best tools for post-surgery treatment.

If you’re ready to start your LASIK journey, give us a call at 713-395-1515 or contact us online.

 
More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas: 

• What Causes Macular Degeneration?
• What to Expect After Cataract Surgery
• Cataract Surgery Lens Options
• Wet vs. Dry Macular Degeneration
• Do Cataracts Go Away Naturally? 

What causes macular degeneration? Though the reason for the onset of macular degeneration is unknown, science has come a long way in understanding what is actually causing the symptoms of the disease. Here’s what science currently tells us about what causes macular degeneration, as well as macular degeneration warning signs to watch out for and more.

The current science behind what causes macular degeneration 

Age-related macular degeneration (AMD) is an eye disease that primarily affects the central portion of the retina, known as the macula. 

In its dry (non-neovascular) form –– the most common form –– little bits of fat and protein called drusen begin to collect underneath your retina. Individual drusen are typically harmless, but when they accumulate en masse behind your retina, they start to cut off the oxygen supply to your eye. In the wet (neovascular) form of macular degeneration, abnormal blood vessels (thought to form as an effort to rid your eye of drusen) also begin to form underneath the retina. Unfortunately, these blood vessels increase the risk of fluid or blood leaking into the retina.

Dry macular degeneration is considered less serious and causes more minimal vision loss than wet macular degeneration. Please see our article for more information regarding wet vs. dry macular degeneration. 

FAQ: How long does it take to lose vision with macular degeneration?

On average, it takes approximately 10 years from diagnosis to become legally blind. In very severe cases, eyesight can be lost in as short as a few days. If you are near the age of 70, try to see your eye doctor regularly.

Macular degeneration risk factors 

While what causes these drusen to collect (and thus what causes macular degeneration onset) is still unknown, several risk factors for AMD have been identified. 

• • Age: Age is by far the biggest determining risk factor for AMD. It’s very common for individuals over the age of 70 to be diagnosed with some degree of macular degeneration.
  • Gender: Women are currently considered to be more likely to get AMD than men, but this may be because most women live longer than men. About ⅔ of all patients with AMD are women.
  • Smoking: People who smoke have been found more likely to have AMD. It is thought that this is due to the fact that smoking reduces the amount of oxygen that reaches your eyes.
      
  • High blood pressure: Like smoking, high blood pressure can also reduce the amount of oxygen that reaches your eyes.

Other potential risk factors include obesity, certain medications, and poor diet, although the research on linking these factors to AMD is still inconclusive. 

Signs of macular degeneration to watch out for 

There are a few symptoms to note if you suspect you may have macular degeneration. Here are some typical examples of the common signs of macular degeneration to look out for:

• Your vision is gradually becoming more blurry
• Your eyes have difficulty adjusting to different levels of light 
• You may have issues with color, depth, and texture perception
• Your vision becomes spotty  

If any of these signs of macular degeneration feel familiar, check out our article on how to self-test for macular degeneration using the macular degeneration amsler grid. 

Early detection is key to the successful treatment of macular degeneration. If macular degeneration is not detected soon enough, your vision can become more wavy and distorted at a quicker rate. 

Can you reverse macular degeneration? 

There currently are no macular degeneration treatment options that will cure you of AMD. However, if you catch the early signs, you may be able to slow the disease down. The best way to practice macular degeneration prevention is to make permanent lifestyle changes to slow the disease:

• Schedule regular eye exams 
• Quit smoking
• Incorporate vitamins A, E, and C 
• Improve your diet and exercise
• Protect your eyes from sunlight exposure 

For a deeper understanding of AMD prevention, read our article: Macular Degeneration Prevention Tips. Treatment options for AMD include laser procedures, eye injections, and certain vitamins. For more information, speak with an ophthalmologist at Eye Center of Texas. 

Don’t wait. Speak with a macular degeneration specialist at Eye Center of Texas today

Think you may be showing signs of macular degeneration? Have additional questions regarding what causes macular degeneration? A retina specialist in Houston from Eye Center of Texas can help answer your questions and work with you on how to maintain your vision. Our experience detecting and treating macular degeneration allows us to promptly answer your questions and take preventative measures. 

Call 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online today. 

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas: 

• Can Cataracts Go Away Naturally? 
• Can Cataracts Come Back After Surgery? 
• Retina Surgery Options
• What to Ask in a LASIK Consultation
• Can a Diabetic Get LASIK?

When asking about what to expect after cataract surgery, some patients want an explanation of the do’s and don’ts of cataract surgery recovery, while others simply want to know when to expect results. Improved vision is, after all, the main reason most individuals pursue blade-free or traditional cataract surgery.

Cataract surgery, especially blade-free cataract surgery, is extremely safe. At the same time, it’s natural to want to know whether there are any cataract surgery side effects and after-effects to be worried about. In this post, we’ll learn what to expect after cataract surgery over time, including information about recovery.

Getting ready for cataract surgery? See our before and after surgery checklist in our guide to Prepping for Cataract Surgery.

How long does it take to recover from cataract surgery?

Your rate of recovery will be highly dependent on the health of your eyes. However, most people can return to work one to three days after cataract surgery, and, for some it may take your eyes between three and six weeks to recover completely from the procedure.

You and your doctor should discuss your personal recovery plan before your procedure.

What to expect after cataract surgery: The day of the procedure

1. Directly after the operation

The cataract procedure itself does not take very long (between 10-20 minutes per eye). If you have been sedated or anesthetized, you will need to rest in a recovery area after your procedure for about 30 minutes to an hour.

2. Getting home

One of the first things you’ll need to do after cataract surgery is to go home and rest. However, since you’ll still be recovering from sedation, you must have someone drive you home (please note, we cannot release you to a uber or taxi driver). Before the surgery, please designate a driver (be it a friend, family member) for your transportation.

3. Vision quality the day of the procedure

Directly after your cataract surgery, you are going to experience fluctuations in the clarity of your vision that cause an overall effect of blurriness. What causes blurred vision after cataract surgery? Blurriness is most frequently caused by your eye getting accustomed to its new lens. Most patients state that their vision becomes less cloudy only 48 hours post-op.

Keep in mind, if you have floaters, they may be more visible now that you are seeing through a clear lens.

4. Activities to avoid after cataract surgery

Obviously, you will want to avoid touching your eyes directly after cataract surgery, along with the following activities:

• Strenuous exercise and heavy lifting: Exercise and heavy lifting can put pressure on your eyes. It’s fine for you to walk and to do very light physical work after your surgery, but most doctors recommend that you not bend over or lift objects for at least 24 hours after the surgery. In fact, they recommend that you avoid lifting and strenuous exertion completely until your eyes have healed.
• Cooking: As with any surgery, your body is going to experience fatigue during your recovery time. For many, that fatigue has led to difficulty in finding the energy to cook regularly, or at all. Cooking may also expose your eyes to steam or splatters of food or oil. If you like to cook, it’s wise to plan and prepare several days’ worth of meals before your surgery. If you don’t like to cook, purchasing pre-cooked meals before your surgery can save you a lot of unwanted stress.
• Swimming pools and hot tubs: Next to rubbing and touching your eyes frequently, getting into a swimming pool is perhaps the next worst thing you can do if you’re trying to prevent infections. The bacteria and chemicals in both public and private swimming pools are simply not good to have near eyes recovering from surgery. Swimming after cataract surgery is to be avoided, as is lounging in a hot tub or sauna.
• Wearing makeup: This may go without saying, but you will want to avoid applying makeup directly after your cataract surgery. Your eyes are more sensitive to infection during this time, and makeup (especially previously used makeup) can be a hotbed of bacteria. Additionally, the chemicals used to remove makeup can be harsh and are not good to have around an eye that is recovering from recent cataract surgery

5. Sleeping position after cataract surgery

We often receive questions about how to sleep after cataract surgery. Typically, cataract surgery shouldn’t actually affect your sleeping position, but if you have concerns about rubbing the eye during your sleep, you may wish to try sleeping on your back or on the opposite side of the eye which was operated on. In general, it’s more important to get quality sleep than it is to sleep in the perfect position.

What to expect after cataract surgery: The first week

1. Follow-up appointments and eye drops

Typically, patients are asked to come back for a follow-up examination both one day directly after the surgery and for another appointment one to two weeks after the procedure. These appointments help check on the health of your eye and on the new lens.

In the interim, your doctor will likely have prescribed antibiotics and anti-inflammatory eye drops to help reduce any swelling, discomfort, and risk of infection during the recovery process. Use these as recommended.

2. Fluctuations in vision quality

Patients may still be experiencing blurriness and fluctuations in vision quality during the first week of their recovery, with blurriness improving within a few days. How long does it take for your vision to stabilize after cataract surgery? Again, the vast majority of patients experience a significant degree of vision stabilization during the hours, days, and weeks after surgery, but some may continue to experience blurriness for a month or two.

The length of your vision stabilization time during recovery often depends on which cataract surgery lens options you chose to have implanted.

Typically, patients who opt for Monofocal intraocular lens (IOL), the standard IOL that’s covered by most insurances, can expect a slightly longer time before adjusting to their new vision. This is the case because Monofocal lenses correct only nearsightedness or farsightedness, but not both. Patients typically opt to correct for nearsightedness (for seeing far away objects) and then rely on glasses to help them see objects near-at-hand.

3. Activities to (continue to) avoid

As mentioned previously, most people can return to work one to three days after their cataract surgery. It is still highly recommended that you continue to avoid strenuous exercise and heavy lifting, cooking, swimming, hot tubs, and the use of heavy makeup during this time. After the first week or two, you can start incorporating many of these activities back into your routine with the exception of swimming. It is best to avoid swimming pools and hot tubs entirely until your eyes have completely recovered.

What to expect after cataract surgery: Six weeks post-op

After six weeks, your eyes should be healed and your vision mostly (if not completely) stabilized. Depending on the choice of IOL you made, you may now be able to enjoy a completely glasses-free lifestyle! Once this time period has elapsed, you should also feel safe participating in the activities listed above, including swimming.

Are there side effects of cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is the world’s most common surgery. It is also one of the safest, with the vast majority of patients seeing (literally) positive outcomes. Outside of initial blurriness and dry eyes, side effects after cataract surgery are infrequent and rarely threatening.

However, patients may experience a few side effects. These are very rare and are typically caught during your post-operation checkups.

• Endophthalmitis: Blurriness after cataract surgery is sometimes indicative of a complication called endophthalmitis. Endophthalmitis is an inflammation of the eye’s interior, caused most frequently by an eye infection. Endophthalmitis is typically treatable with additional surgery and antibiotics.
• Posterior capsular opacification (CPO): Posterior capsular opacification, often called a “secondary cataract” is another type of clouding of vision after cataract surgery. This complication is typically treatable with laser surgery. For more information, please see our article: Can Cataracts Come Back After Surgery?

What to Expect After Cataract Surgery at Eye Center of Texas

Having performed over 80,000 successful cataract surgeries, the surgeons of Eye Center of Texas have transformed the lives of thousands of Houstonians. The most common cataract surgery after-effects we’ve seen? Improved vision!

Put your vision in the hands of nationally renowned blade-free cataract surgeons, and call us at 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online today to get started on your journey to better vision.

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas:

• Can Cataracts Go Away Naturally?
• Macular Degeneration Prevention Tips
• Retina Surgery Options
• What to Ask in a LASIK Consultation
• Can Diabetics Get LASIK Surgery?

Each patient that undergoes one of the millions of cataract surgeries performed in the USA every year must choose between the cataract surgery lens options available to them. The types of lenses available for cataract surgery has expanded over the past few decades so that patients who previously may not have an ideal lens solution after cataract surgery may now have multiple cataract surgery lens options from which to choose. 

What are the different types of lenses for cataract surgery? 

Cataracts occur when proteins break down and leave cloudy “patches” on your lens, leading to blurry vision and, in severe and/or untreated cases, blindness. The only way to get rid of cataracts is to remove and replace the clouded lens (cataracts cannot go away naturally). Since you need a lens to see properly, the removed lens must then be replaced. These replacement lenses are called intraocular lenses (IOLs) and they come in three main forms.

1. Monofocal lenses

Monofocal intraocular lenses are designed to provide optimized vision for one distance. Patients choose what distance — near, far, or intermediate — they want their new lens to accommodate. For example, many patients choose lenses set to help with far vision and use reading glasses to help them see objects that are close at hand.

If patients have cataract surgery in both eyes at once, they have additional cataract surgery lens options when it comes to monofocal lenses. Specifically, they can choose to have both IOLs set for the same distance, or they can choose to have one lens accommodate near vision and one to accommodate far vision. This latter option has been termed “monovision.”

It can take time for your brain to adjust to monovision, and some people never get used to it. If you’re interested in monovision, your ophthalmologist may recommend trying out monovision with contacts before your cataract surgery. 

2. Multifocal lenses

Multifocal intraocular lenses are often likened to bifocal or trifocal glasses; they are constructed to house separate “zones” that correct for different distances. Due to their flexibility, these lenses can greatly reduce a patient’s dependence on glasses, making them an increasingly popular cataract surgery lens option. 

A small percentage of patients do struggle to adjust to these lenses and for that reason may struggle with slightly blurred vision. Patients with multifocal lenses are also more likely to experience trouble with glare and light halos while driving at night.

3. Toric lenses

The Toric intraocular lens for astigmatism is used to help correct for astigmatism as well as replace your lens after cataract surgery. Cataract surgery lens options for astigmatism are relatively new and are often applied in combination with limbal relaxing incisions (incisions that help correct abnormalities in the curvature of the eye). Toric lenses are typically monofocal lenses, although multifocal versions are available. 

For more information on astigmatism correction, check out our short instructional video. 

Which lens is better, monofocal or multifocal? 

There is no straight answer to this question. When weighing intraocular lens implant pros and cons, you will need to consider your particular vision needs and desires. For example, if you really want to increase your chances of being able to live independently of glasses, you may want to pursue multifocal lenses. But if you frequently drive at night, you may wish to avoid multifocal lenses. 

In the end, everyone’s eyes’ ability to focus using multifocal lenses or monovision is different, which is why it’s best to discuss your cataract surgery lens options with your doctor and, if possible, even try them out before your surgery. 

Cataract surgery lens options and costs 

Some lens types are more likely to be covered by insurance than others. If the type of lens you desire is not covered, Eye Center of Texas may be able to help facilitate monthly payments via Care Credit to help you manage the cost of your cataract surgery. 

Can you change your lenses after cataract surgery?

Yes, you can change your cataract lenses after cataract surgery, although the need to do so is exceedingly rare. The vast majority of patients adjust to their new lenses easily and are happy with their performance for the rest of their lives. For more information on the longevity of cataract lenses and cataract surgery, check out our articles How Long Do Cataract Lenses Last and Can Cataracts Come Back After Surgery?

Discuss your cataract surgery lens options with a top ophthalmologist at Eye Center of Texas

Eye Center of Texas offers the latest in cataract surgery lens options. Our cataract surgeons, Dr. Mark Mayo and Dr. Edward Wade, have performed thousands of successful cataract procedures and specialize in bladeless cataract surgery. 

If you are in need of cataract surgery in Houston (or the Greater Houston area) and wish to explore your cataract surgery lens options, don’t hesitate to reach out to the professionals at Eye Center of Texas. With six locations and hundreds of thousands of successful cataract surgeries to our name, we are fully equipped to make your journey to restored, clear vision as simple and safe as possible.  

Call us at 713-797-1010 or contact us online to request an appointment today. 

More Helpful Articles by Eye Center of Texas: 

• What to Ask in a LASIK Consultation 
• Retinal Surgery Recovery Time
• Can Diabetics get LASIK Surgery? 
• How Do You Know if You Have Glaucoma? 
• Common Signs of Macular Degeneration 

The main difference between wet vs dry macular degeneration is simple: dry macular degeneration is the more common type of eye disease and does less damage to your vision while wet macular degeneration can result in serious vision loss. 

Clinically, however, there are more specific differences between wet vs. dry macular degeneration that are slightly more involved. We’ll discuss these here along with other important information about the difference between wet and dry AMD. 

For more resources regarding macular degeneration, check out our articles: What is Macular Degeneration?, Common signs of macular degeneration, and 5 Macular Degeneration Prevention Tips. 

What causes macular degeneration?

Before we get into the details of wet vs. dry macular degeneration, it’s important to understand what macular degeneration is, in general. Macular degeneration is a chronic eye disease that gradually destroys central vision. When the process of transporting nutrients and waste by a layer of cells called the retinal pigment epithelium (RPE) is slowed down, yellowish deposits called drusen will form underneath the retina. 

An excess of drusen is a telling sign that a person may have macular degeneration. Drusen cut off oxygen to your eye and may contribute to a thinning of the macula, the part of your retina that is responsible for giving you a clear line of sight. It’s this thinning of the macula that causes the damaged or lost vision characteristic of macular degeneration.

While macular generation is associated with aging, the cause of its onset is still unknown. Research indicates other additional hereditary and environmental factors risk factors including:

• Family history
• Cardiovascular disease and high blood pressure may place additional stress on the blood vessels, accelerating the development of vision loss
• Smoking will triple the risk of developing macular degeneration
• Elevated serum lipids (cholesterol and triglycerides) have been associated with an increased risk of macular degeneration
• Complement factor H is a marker of inflammation, and abnormalities in this gene have been linked to macular degeneration
• Excessive exposure to sunlight is a risk factor for eye disease, be sure to wear sunglasses or hats to protect your eyes from harmful rays
• And more 

Research has shown that proper diet, exercise, and maintaining your overall health can lower your risk of developing macular degeneration. However, age still plays a role, as the odds of developing this disease are even greater once you reach 75 years of age. 

What is dry macular degeneration?

Macular degeneration can often develop in two forms: dry (atrophic) or wet (exudative). The difference between wet vs dry macular degeneration is in the severity. Dry macular degeneration is the most common type of macular degeneration and is not as serious. About 85-90% of patients who develop macular degeneration develop the dry form. Most will experience minimal vision loss and excess development of large, soft drusen in the retina. The dry form can worsen over time if not seen by a specialist, and can result in the loss of central vision. 

Can dry macular degeneration be treated? 

There are currently no treatments that cure dry macular degeneration. However, clinical trials are currently being done for potential treatments. Dry macular degeneration treatment breakthroughs include stem cell therapies, an injection of the drug Apl-2, an oral antibiotic called Oracea, and an anti-inflammatory drug called Metformin. Most of these potential treatments are in phases two or three of their research and may not be available until for several more years.

What is wet macular degeneration?

Wet macular degeneration is the less common yet more serious type to develop. In the wet stage of macular degeneration, new blood vessels begin to form underneath the retina (choroidal neovascularization). Unfortunately, these new blood vessels often lead to blood or fluid leakage in the retina where vision can become distorted. In this stage, consulting a doctor is crucial. A good tool for identifying any changes in your vision is the macular degeneration amsler grid, a self-administered test in which straight lines will appear distorted if there is fluid underneath your retina. 

Can wet macular degeneration be treated? 

Similar to the dry form, treatment for wet macular degeneration has not been established yet. The best way to treat wet macular degeneration is to prevent the disease before it happens. This can be done with injections, laser procedures, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. If caught late, these treatment options will help manage the side effects of wet macular degeneration.

Additional wet vs. dry macular degeneration FAQs 

Which is worse, dry or wet macular degeneration? 

Wet macular degeneration is more serious and is the leading cause of permanent central vision loss. Though the dry type is less serious, it can lead to the wet type if not monitored closely by a doctor. 

How often does dry macular degeneration turn into wet? 

About 1-in-10 people who suffer from dry macular degeneration will eventually develop wet macular degeneration. Though not as common, it’s still possible, so be sure to visit your eye doctor regularly if you already have dry macular degeneration.

How can I avoid macular degeneration?

Even if you aren’t experiencing any symptoms of macular degeneration, early prevention is your best chance at stopping or slowing down the disease. Luckily, the prevention tips are easy to follow — see your eye doctor regularly, prioritize diet and exercise, don’t smoke, take vitamins, or consider other types of prevention therapy as recommended by your doctor. 

Spot the signs early, save your eyesight: Contact Eye Center of Texas today.

If you are over the age of 50 and notice some of the signs and symptoms of macular degeneration like worsening eyesight, blurred vision, etc. we recommend you visit our retina specialist here at Eye Center of Texas. 

We are here to help answer any questions you may have regarding wet vs. dry macular degeneration, eye health tips, and more. 

Spotting macular degeneration early can help to avoid vision loss in the future. Give us a call at 713-797-1010 or request an appointment online today. 

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Can cataracts go away naturally? How can I get rid of cataracts naturally? Can cataracts be dissolved? We get asked questions like these a lot. Frankly, there is no proven home remedy available for curing or “dissolving” cataracts, and those who lead people to believe that cataracts can go away naturally are promoting myths that delay a patient’s access to helpful treatment. 

The perpetuation of these myths is especially frustrating, since the longer a cataract goes untreated, the harder it is to remove and because cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest surgeries available worldwide. Meanwhile, untreated cataracts can eventually lead to serious eye-health issues, including blindness.

If your eyesight is getting worse due to cataracts and you’re on the internet seeking out easy ways to quickly cure cataracts from home, don’t be misled. Take a few moments to learn about the reality about some of the top “How can I get rid of cataracts naturally?” myths, then explore your truly viable cataract treatment options. 

Myth #1: The right lifestyle choices can reverse cataract growth 

Eating healthier, drinking more water, wearing sunglasses, and eliminating cigarettes from your life are all good in our book; however, these measures are considered tips for cataract prevention and not cataract treatment. None of these changes will reverse your cataract.

Myth #2: My cataract will go away if I ignore it

Ignoring a cataract is, quite simply, a terrible idea — especially if you have fast-growing cataracts, which require immediate attention. Cataracts never go away on their own, they only get worse. In some cases, you and your doctor may decide together that you don’t need cataract surgery right away. At a certain point, however, most people begin to experience enough vision issues that they decide to have their cataract removed. In extreme cases, including cases when cataracts go untreated for decades, you could end up blind.

Myth #3: There are non-surgical treatments for cataracts

While there is some ongoing research regarding non-surgical treatment for cataracts, nothing is proven to work or approved to go to market at this point. So if you’ve heard something about cataract cure eye drops or some other miracle solution, those solutions simply aren’t here yet. There just isn’t enough research or testing to confirm their efficacy.

Myth 4: You can use apple cider vinegar for cataracts

One of the most widely spread home remedy myths concerning cataracts is that you can use apple cider vinegar to reverse cataracts. There are good antioxidants in vinegar and apples, so if you want to somehow incorporate apple cider vinegar in your diet, doing so won’t hurt your cataracts. However, this doesn’t mean that apple cider vinegar has been proven to prevent cataracts or that it’s more effective at preventing cataracts than any other food high in nutrition or antioxidants. And it certainly doesn’t mean that apple cider vinegar is going to reverse or cure your cataracts. There simply is no evidence that proves that at this time.

Myth 5: Cataract surgery is time-consuming, scary, or dangerous 

At Eye Center of Texas, we offer safe and effective bladeless cataract surgery. Laser cataract surgery only takes around 30 minutes to complete and only requires between 24 to 48 hours recovery time. During the procedure, an eye surgeon breaks down and removes the clouded cataract lens, then inserts a new, artificial lens that never needs to be changed (unlike contacts). 

Our surgeons are some of the most renowned cataract surgeons in Houston and have performed tens of thousands of successful cataract surgeries.If you want to learn more about treatment options for cataracts, check out these resources: 

• Laser Surgery vs. Traditional Surgery for Cataracts
• How Does Cataract Surgery Work? 
• How Safe is Cataract Surgery? 
• How Long Can Cataract Surgery Be Postponed? 
• How to Prep for Cataract Surgery
• Cataract Surgery in Both Eyes 
• How Long Do Cataract Lenses Last? 
• The Cataract Surgery Success Rate
• Lens Options: Multifocal, Monofocal, Astigmatism-Correcting
  

What will happen if a cataract is left untreated? 

There are two main issues with postponing cataract treatment: The first of these is waiting too long to have your cataracts removed can actually make the cataract removal procedure more difficult. Cataracts grow thicker and less pliable over time, making them harder to remove and increasing your chances for complications during cataract surgery. When your cataracts are treated at the right time, however, cataract surgery complications are exceedingly rare.

The second major issue with postponing cataract treatment is the loss of quality of life you may experience due to vision loss. How quickly you experience difficulties from a cataract or cataracts depends on how rapidly your cataract is developing. However, almost all individuals who have had cataracts over a long period of time begin to experience trouble seeing. These issues can lead to problems with everyday tasks including driving, reading, or even recognizing faces. 

Live your life free of cataracts. Contact Eye Center of Texas.

Cataracts are extremely common, and so is cataract surgery. Cataract treatment options are safe, effective, and trusted by over 3 million people every year. As one of Houston’s most successful cataract treatment facilities, Eye Center of Texas can help you find the right cataract treatment plan for you and set you down the path towards clearer vision. 

Skip the apple vinegar and give us a call at 713-797-1010 or contact us online to get started today.  

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Why concern yourself with macular degeneration prevention if you don’t have the condition? While it is possible to stop or slow the progression of age-related macular degeneration once you’ve been diagnosed, there is currently no cure if you’re diagnosed with AMD. 

In other words, once you have AMD, you’ll want to make permanent changes to your lifestyle habits to slow down the progression of the disease. If you don’t, then you may eventually suffer drastic loss of vision. 

Luckily for those concerned about macular degeneration, prevention tips are simple to follow. A little education on macular degeneration causes and prevention can go a long way. Let’s break down a few easy-to-follow macular degeneration prevention tips now.

Need a review of the causes, signs, symptoms, and treatments of macular degeneration? Check out our article: What is Macular Degeneration?

Tip #1: Don’t skip your eye exams

At the top of our list of macular degeneration prevention tips is making sure that you schedule and go to regular eye exams. While eye exams won’t exactly prevent macular degeneration, they can give you the opportunity to catch the diseases early and prevent the disease from progressing. During an eye exam, your doctor will look for the initial signs of macular degeneration. If spotted, you can immediately begin AMD treatment recommendations and as a result, slow down its progression.

The frequency of regular eye exams should increase as you age, with those over the age of 50 attending an eye exam at least once every one to two years. 

Think you might be showing signs of macular degeneration? Check out our article on how to self-test using the Amsler grid screening test.

Tip #2: Take your vitamins

Whether or not you’ve been diagnosed with AMD, some vitamins may help delay the onset or s progression of the disease. But if you’re wondering, “What vitamin can you take to help prevent macular degeneration?” — that’s not exactly how this tip works.

According to studies, including this Harvard macular degeneration study, a simple (yet high-dosed) vitamin cocktail that includes vitamins such as vitamins A, E, and C can slow the progression of macular degeneration. However, taking a consistently high dosage of these vitamins has not been shown to prevent the disease from setting in altogether. Many doctors would even recommend a better diet over a surplus of vitamins (prior to a diagnosis).

Tip #3: Quit smoking

Smoking can negatively impact your body in more than ways, but many people don’t realize that smoking can impact your vision, as well. In fact, smoking is considered one of the leading causes of macular degeneration and a major contributing factor of its progression; Research shows that smokers are 2 to 5 times more likely to succumb to macular degeneration than non-smokers are. In other words, if you want to prevent or slow down AMD, then make this macular degeneration prevention tip one of your top priorities. 

Tip #4: Improve your diet and exercise

Similar to smoking, those with a poor diet and lack of an exercise routine are more susceptible to macular degeneration. A poor diet can lead to issues with your blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol — all of which can negatively impact eye health. Couple these issues with little-to-no exercise and you’re considered to be 2 to 3 times more likely to suffer from AMD. Long story short, if you include more greens and walking in your life, macular degeneration will be less likely to pop up.

The American Macular Degeneration Foundation (AMDF) has created a guide to eating right for your eye health, including information on macular degeneration foods to avoid. Eye Center of Texas has also published a guide to the best foods for eye health (originally geared toward diabetics, but applicable to all patients).   

Tip #5: Consider drug therapy

As a treatment option for wet macular degeneration, Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor (VEGF) inhibitors have been shown to significantly help prevent the progression of AMD. In some cases, VEGF inhibitors have even helped those suffering from wet AMD recover some of their lost vision. These particular drugs are used to reduce swelling, as well as the formation of new blood vessels (both of which are issues that can negatively impact your macula and lead to further vision loss). 

VEGF inhibitors have shown to cause other health issues, so it’s important to speak with your doctor and weigh all your options before beginning this macular degeneration treatment option.

Want more help than macular degeneration prevention tips? Contact Eye Center of Texas.

These 5 macular degeneration prevention tips can help prevent and slow down AMD’s progression. However, comprehensive treatment of macular degeneration requires routine appointments with your eye doctor and consistent improvements with your lifestyle choices and habits.

AMD is a common eye disease that many people struggle with on a daily basis. If your eyesight is getting worse, if you’re over the age of 50, or if eye disease runs in the family, the time to take preventative action is now. 

At Eye Center of Texas, you can speak with a leading retina specialist in Houston and get expert help maintaining your eye vision for as long as possible. We are here to answer your macular degeneration questions, from, “What is the best treatment for macular degeneration?” to clarification regarding dry vs. wet macular degeneration. 

Call us at 713-797-1010 or fill out our online form to request an appointment today. 

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Can cataracts come back after surgery? Does cataract surgery last a lifetime? While these questions may seem odd to some, we get them or their equivalents rather frequently. Let’s take a few minutes to cover why cataract surgery is permanent and if there are other situations post-surgery that you’ll need to consider.

Can you have cataracts twice? 

First things first, no. Your cataract cannot grow back because, during surgery, the lens upon which a cataract forms is removed. That being said, there is the chance that another “cataract-like” situation can occur. But before we can get into that, let’s quickly discuss how cataract surgery works so you can better understand why cataracts can’t grow back and how you could potentially find yourself in a different situation later down the line.

How does cataract surgery work?

There are two different types of cataract surgery, traditional and laser cataract surgery, with laser surgery being the safer of the two options. During the procedure, the cloudy lens is broken up and removed from the eye. Upon removal, an artificial lens is put in its place. The cataract surgery success rate — 98% — is very high. Cataract surgery works, and it works well. This success is due to the fact that the cataract is fully removed from your eye. It no longer exists, and it cannot grow back. 

Learn more about the cataract surgery process by reading our articles: How Does Cataract Surgery Work? and How long do cataract lenses last? 

What is a secondary cataract?

While your cataracts cannot come back after surgery, you can get what is called posterior capsular opacification (or PCO), also referred to as a secondary cataract. But if the answer to the question, “Can cataracts grow back after surgery?” is “No,” then how can you get a secondary cataract? Exactly what causes cloudiness in the eye after cataract surgery? 

When your new lens is placed inside your eye during cataract surgery, it’s placed into the lens capsule. That artificial lens cannot grow a cataract; however, the capsule itself can become cloudy when epithelial cells grow and spread inside the capsule. The unwanted growth of these cells is what causes the hazy, blurry vision that replicates cataract-like symptoms.

Although they aren’t common, secondary cataracts can occur after surgery, and when they do, their symptoms can mimic a run-of-the-mill cataract. Secondary cataracts are the main reason why some people incorrectly call us asking, “Can cataracts come back after surgery?” because they assume that their cataract has, indeed, grown back.

Are you preparing for cataract surgery? Check out our guide on how to prepare for cataract surgery.

What are the symptoms of a secondary cataract?

If you’ve had cataract surgery, then you clearly know what it feels like to have a cataract. While a cataract is not the same thing as a secondary cataract, the experiences with both situations are very similar. 

In particular, here’s what to be on the lookout for:

• Blurry vision
• Glares
• Halos
• Difficulty identifying colors, objects, and contrasts

Are you having difficulty seeing things clearly? We’ve created a list of top answers to the question, “Why is my vision getting worse?”

How do you treat a secondary cataract?

If you do feel as if you’re experiencing symptoms of a secondary cataract, schedule an appointment with your doctor as soon as possible. Treating a secondary cataract is easy and fast. The process involves a small incision with a laser and then removal of the unwanted cell growth. After treatment, you should be able to see clearly once again, and the growth should not return. 

Unlike cataract surgery recovery time, which in and of itself is minimal, the recovery time for a secondary cataract is next to nothing. You can almost always resume normal activities immediately upon leaving your doctor’s office. 

You may experience slight discomfort (which can usually be alleviated with OTC pain medication), and with some patients, it might be recommended to avoid driving and overly bright lights for 24 hours. Eye drops may also be prescribed.

Check out the top signs of a cataract and learn more about when to schedule surgery.

Asking “Can cataracts come back after surgery?” because you’re experiencing a secondary cataract? Contact Eye Center of Texas.

Don’t allow a secondary cataract to lessen the positive impact of cataract surgery. Act now and get your vision back on track. 

At Eye Center of Texas, we are home to some of the leading cataract surgeons in Houston. We’ve performed over 80,000 successful cataract surgeries, and we have the skill and experience you need to quickly eliminate the nuisance of a secondary cataract.

Don’t let secondary cataracts get in the way of your dream of clear vision. Call us at 713-797-1010 Contact us online today and request an appointment with one of our doctors. 

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