A general definition of Cataracts is the clouding of the natural or crystalline lens of the eye. Cataracts are typically associated with advanced age, but they can also occur as a result of genetic factors, trauma, and excessive exposure to sunlight or radiation. The eye’s crystalline lens is responsible for focusing light in the retina, which in turn enables us to see clearly and sharply. Thus, cataracts create hazy, unfocused vision. If gone unattended, cataracts can lead to more serious condition such as scotomas and even blindness.
Luckily, thanks to advancements in lens technology, cataracts today are a very manageable and a very correctable vision defiency. Cataract removal surgery at the hands of an experienced ophthalmologist can both remove the risk of a worse problem and potentially lead to better overall vision. The new artificial lens inserted during the procedure can even eliminate such vision impairments as myopia or hyperopia.