Cataracts and Cataract Surgery

Chicago, Illinois Cataract Surgeon

A cataract is a clouding of the lens of the eye.  The lens of the eye is normally clear, but when the lens becomes less transparent, this is called a cataract.  Some people believe that a cataract is a film that grows over the eye, but that is not the case.

Babies can rarely be born with cataracts, but more commonly, cataracts are associated with aging.  Everyone who lives long enough will develop a cataract, but risk factors such as smoking, diabetes or the use of steroid medications may cause the growth of a cataract earlier.  Others may notice that with cataracts that colors are less intense or washed out.  Early cataracts may cause a change in eyeglass or contact lense prescription.

At one time, cataract surgery was so risky that a cataract needed to be “ripe” or “mature” before surgery was recommended.  Today, cataract surgery is generally very successful and therefore there is no need to delay surgery unnecessarily.  The time for cataract surgery is when the individual cannot see the things that they need to be able to see.  For each individual this will be different as an airplane pilot has different visual requirements than a retired person who does not read or drive.

Chicago eye surgeon Dr. Golden has performed thousands of cataract surgeries in the past, but at this time, he prefers to refer his patients to those who specialize in cataract surgery.  He is happy to evaluate your need for a procedure, counsel you on the advanced options available, to help you find an appropriate surgeon and to assist in your postoperative care. Please contact us today to schedule a cataract consultation.