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Spivack Vision Center
6881 South Yosemite Street
Centennial, Colorado 80112
Phone: 888-898-2020 | 303-SEE-2020
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Cataract Eye Surgery Denver CO
Serving Centennial - Englewood - Denver CO
Our Cataract Surgeons in Denver want our patients to be informed about Cataracts and know that they are an inevitable part of the aging process. Most people will develop cataracts as they get older. In fact, more than 50 percent of all Americans over age 60 have developed cataracts. Although cataracts cannot be prevented or reversed, our surgeons offer the latest cataract treatment procedures using state-of-the-art technology, including posterior capsulotomy and multifocal intraocular lenses (IOLs), such as Crystalens®, ReSTOR®, and Tecnis® Multifocal , at our Centennial, metro Denver, Colorado-area vision center.
What Is a Cataract?
A cataract is a protein buildup which causes clouding on the eye’s natural lens. The lens is made of water and protein. With age, the protein clumps together, resulting in clouding on the lens. This clouding makes it difficult for light to pass through, resulting in blurry vision and sensitivity to light. If left untreated, the cloud will continue to “ripen” or “mature,” and eventually lead to severe vision problems and even blindness.
Types of Cataracts
There are three types of cataracts:
- Nuclear cataracts form in the nucleus of the lens, and are the most common type of cataracts. This type of cataract occurs as part of the natural aging process.
- Cortical cataracts form in the outer rim of the lens, also known as the lens cortex. This type of cataract gradually extends to the center of the lens. Cortical cataracts are common in diabetic patients.
- Subcapsular cataracts form at the back of the lens and progress very rapidly. This type of cataract is most common in individuals with a high degree of farsightedness, who have retinitis pigmentosa, or who are taking steroids.
It is possible to have more than one type of cataract at the same time. The doctors at Spivack Vision Center® can determine what type of cataract you have and discuss your treatment options, including multifocal crystalens®, ReSTOR®, and Tecnis® Multifocal IOLs. Contact our Centennial vision center in metro Denver to schedule an appointment.
Causes and Symptoms of Cataracts
No one knows for sure why cataracts form in the eyes. However, researchers have determined that some factors may play a significant role in the development of cataracts:
- Ultraviolet radiation – Long term exposure is dangerous to the eyes. Scientists believe harmful UV rays can change the eye’s pigment, leading to the formation of cataracts.
- Smoking and drinking – Scientists believe the chemical byproducts from smoke are partially responsible for the development of cataracts. Scientists also believe that alcohol blocks essential nutrients from being absorbed, which can also cause cataracts.
- Eye trauma – Cuts, punctures, burns, or any other injuries to the eye may lead to the formation of cataracts.
- Medical disorders – Certain medical conditions, such as glaucoma, diabetes, and other conditions have been associated with the formation of cataracts.
- Medications – Steroids are known to cause cataracts. Other medications such as aspirin, allopurinol, amiodarone, and tamoxifen have also been linked to the formation of cataracts.
- Free radicals – Free radicals found in the body can cause cell damage. High levels of free radicals may result in the formation of cataracts.
Although their precise cause is still unknown, certain symptoms may indicate the development of cataracts:
- Blurry, cloudy, or foggy vision
- Distortion in color vision
- Difficulty seeing in the dark
- Seeing halos and glare around light
- Frequent changes in eye prescription
- Loss of vision
- Double vision
- Problems with depth perception
- White spots over the pupil
If you experience any of these changes in vision, please contact our practice. Our knowledgeable doctors can determine if you have developed cataracts and will take the time to discuss treatment with you.
Denver Treatment for Cataracts
Millions of Americans undergo cataract surgery every year, making it one of the most common medical procedures performed. Cataract surgery is also one of the most successful procedures ever performed. More than 95 percent of patients who have undergone cataract surgery experience better vision than they had before they developed cataracts. The surgery is safer than ever thanks to exciting technological advances such as foldable Crystalens®, ReSTOR®, and Tecnis®multifocal IOLs, available at our Centennial and Denver-area vision center. Our skilled surgeons have undergone extensive training for treating cataracts, so patients can rest assured they are in good care.
Cataract Treatment Alternatives
Alternatives to cataract surgery are limited for those patients who want to improve their vision without surgery. In some cases, patients have shown positive impacts from changing their habits and diet, but please consult with your cataract doctor for more information. No known cataract surgery alternatives are as effective as cataracts surgery, which has over a 90% success rate.
Cataract Eye Surgery: About the Cataracts Operation & Procedure
Cataract surgery is performed on an outpatient basis. During the procedure, the ophthalmologist uses anesthetic drops to numb the patient’s eyes. When the patient’s eyes are completely numb, an eyelid holder is put in place to prevent the patient from blinking during surgery. Next, the surgeon makes an incision near the edge of the iris and removes the lens. This process is called phacoemulsification. Finally, a folded Crystalens®, ReSTOR®, or Tecnis®IOL is placed in the eye. The IOL will unfold on its own into its new, permanent position. The procedure takes less than one hour. The incision will seal on its own without the use of stitches.
Introducing Crystalens®, ReSTOR®, and Tecnis® IOL Technology
We are proud to feature advanced multifocal Crystalens®, ReSTOR®, and Tecnis® IOL technology at our Centennial practice for superior cataract surgery treatment. Also used for refractive lens exchange and presbyopia treatment, multifocal IOLs carry many advantages over traditional monofocal IOLs, such as providing clear vision at near, far, and intermediate distances and reducing the need for corrective eyewear altogether. In fact, approximately 95 percent of patients who undergo a multifocal lens implant procedure report greater satisfaction and ease when going about their daily routines.
When it comes to choosing among Crystalens®, ReSTOR®, ReZoom™, and IOLs, our doctors will help determine which multifocal IOL is most suited for you by evaluating your individual needs and preferences. Contact our practice to schedule a consultation to learn the best solution for you.
Posterior Capsulotomy
During the posterior capsulotomy procedure, the surgeon places anesthetic drops in the patient’s eyes. Next, an eyelid holder is used to prevent the patient from blinking during the procedure. Then, an Nd:YAG laser is used to create a tiny hole in the posterior capsule behind the lens implant, which will allow light to pass through to the retina more freely and will eliminate some of the cloudiness for better vision. The entire procedure takes less than five minutes, and most patients experience dramatically better vision and are able to return to their normal activities immediately after surgery.
Contact Us to Learn More about Crystalens® and Other Cataract Solutions
Cataract surgery can help individuals with cataracts enjoy the best vision possible. See the difference for yourself. Contact us for more information.