Gregory J. Panzo, M.D.
Cataract/Implant Specialist – Glaucoma Specialist – Laser Specialist

A: Cataracts are aging of the eye’s crystalline lens, which interferes with the passage of light into our eyes and diminishes our vision. Cataracts can occur at any age, like graying hair later in life but generally become present in the sixth or seventh generation of life. This aging is progressive but not always noticeable and is not detrimental to the rest of the eye in most instances.

Cataracts cause symptoms that are most noticeable during daily activities. Most notably, difficulty reading fine print, especially on television, decreased vision in bright light settings, such as driving at night or during sunny days, and troublesome glare or halos around lights at night.

Cataracts also cause less noticeable but more insidious issues such as decreased contrast sensitivity and depth perception. These issues increase the risk of two injuries affecting the elderly, falls resulting in hip fractures and auto accidents. They have also been shown to increase dementia and decrease overall satisfaction of life.

Fortunately, you can prevent this with regular visits to your ophthalmologist and the assessment and treatment of your cataracts. 

A: Past surgical techniques for cataracts were associated with higher complications, longer recovery time, and poorer results compared to today’s cataract treatment. In the past, cataract surgery was delayed until symptoms were extreme. Fortunately, with current surgical technology employed by cataract specialists, cataracts can be removed at any stage. Cataract surgeons can now assess patients for cataract surgery earlier in life without delay.

Modern laser and lens technology have also eliminated astigmatism and other age-related changes to the eye, providing restored, youthful vision and less dependence on glasses. Micro Incisional Glaucoma procedures are available to treat glaucoma and cataracts during the same procedure. This results in enhanced quality of life, general health, and the restoration of youthful vision.

The experienced surgeons at Mid Florida Eye can help determine if cataract surgery is right for you!