Cataracts
A cataract is a slow, progressive clouding of the eye’s natural lens that interferes with light passing through the eye to the retina. Cataracts are caused by a change in the proteins of the eye, which causes clouding or discoloration of the lens. Over time, cataracts typically result in blurred or fuzzy vision and sensitivity to light. Oncoming headlights may also cause uncomfortable glare that makes driving at night more difficult.
People with advanced cataracts often describe their view as if looking through a piece of wax paper. Light from the sun or a lamp may seem too bright and cause glare. Colors may not appear as bright as they once were, yet most cataracts develop so slowly that people often don’t realize that their color vision has deteriorated.
Cataracts: Overview
Your medical and vision history will be reviewed with you, and tests will be performed to determine some or all of the following:
Age
Cataracts begin to form as early as age 50 to 60.
Birth defect
Abnormal conditions within the eyes of unborn babies can cause a cataract to form.
Cigarette smoking
Environmental Factors
These factors include disease, toxic chemicals, and certain medications
Accidents or injuries
Exposure to ultraviolet light
Your Cataract Surgeon
Once you have been diagnosed with a cataract, it is time to meet with an ophthalmologist who can remove it and restore clear vision.
Your first decision will be choosing a cataract surgeon you can TRUST. After all, these are your eyes, your vision, your life, so you want the best cataract surgeon you can find.
Our surgeon Dr. Jeffrey Fischer leads the area in advanced procedures and has performed more than 10,000 cataract procedures. That includes both traditional and laser cataract surgery.
The eye doctors at Fischer Laser Eye Center have been helping people can get on the path to seeing better for more than 45 years. They can do the same for you, but you have to take the first step by scheduling a cataract evaluation.
All About Laser Cataract Surgery
Replacement Lenses
You may also have a choice with regard to the type of replacement lens your doctor will implant at the time of surgery. Which one is best for you? A traditional monofocal lens plus glasses for near vision? Or should you choose a multifocal “lifestyle” lens and less dependence on glasses?
It’s easier to make these decisions when you have a cataract surgeon you can trust! We want you to know that Dr. Jeffrey Fischer is among the most experienced cataract surgeons in Minnesota.
Laser Cataract Surgery
Many of the steps of traditional cataract surgery are performed using handheld instruments. Thanks to advancements in technology, they can now be completed with the precision of a laser. Our center is among the first in the region to have adopted “laser” cataract surgery. Because we have, we now offer patients not only enhanced precision during surgery but also a choice with regard to which technology the surgeon will use to remove your cataract for your best results. This advanced procedure offers patients a highly customized treatment using advanced 3D imaging, enhanced precision, and a gentler and easier cataract removal.
Cataract Surgery: Laser
The more you know, the better you will feel!
We know that it’s perfectly natural to be nervous about undergoing any type of surgery, particularly when it involves your eyes. However, many of our patients find that being evaluated for cataracts and having the opportunity to get answers to all of their questions can dramatically lessen their anxiety.
If you’ve got questions, we’ve got answers. All you have to do is ask us.
I want to schedule a cataract evaluation.
What Happens During a Cataract Procedure?
During the outpatient cataract procedure, Dr. Fischer removes the clouded natural lens using either traditional techniques or, if you and your surgeon have selected laser cataract surgery, an advanced femtosecond laser. Dr. Fischer then implants an artificial replacement lens—either a standard monofocal lens or an advanced technology lifestyle lens—in its place. The incision heals naturally and no stitches are necessary. The procedure is performed in as few as fifteen minutes. After the procedure, you will be allowed to return home. Vision improves immediately following cataract surgery, with complete recovery in a few days.
Modern cataract correction at Fischer Laser Eye Center is…
Convenient
The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis in our state-of-the-art surgical facility in Willmar, where our patients experience a relaxing atmosphere and attentive, personalized care.
Safe
Whether you choose a traditional cataract procedure or a laser cataract procedure, Dr. Fischer will perform your surgery under the high magnification of a microscope, using microsurgical instruments and ultrasound energy.
State of the Art
We offer both traditional and laser cataract surgery and lifestyle lens implants that may reduce or even eliminate your need for reading glasses or bifocals.
Comfortable
From the moment you arrive at Fischer Laser Eye Center’s outpatient surgery center, we work to make your experience relaxing and pleasant. Dr. Fischer will administer anesthetic eye drops to ensure your comfort, and modern surgical techniques mean no stitches are necessary. The surgery itself takes only a few minutes. In no time at all, you will be back in the comfort of your own home.
Effective
Patients experience rapid improvement in vision and a speedy recovery time.
Affordable
We gladly accept Medicare assignment!
Treating Glaucoma & Cataracts in One Procedure
Patients who have both cataracts and glaucoma should ask their eye doctor whether the iStent® could be beneficial. This innovative technology designed to lower pressure eye pressure (one of the most important risk factors for glaucoma) is the smallest medical device ever approved by the FDA. It is placed in the eye during cataract surgery to help restore your eye’s natural fluid outflow. In a U.S. clinical trial, iStent patients who achieved a target pressure of < 21 were more likely not to need their medications than patients with cataract surgery only.
Cataracts: Treatment Overview
Light Adjustable Lenses
The First and Only Lens Adjusted After Cataract Surgery
Most IOLs are designed for a specific vision outcome before cataract surgery and cannot be changed once they have been implanted. The Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) from RxSight is the only IOL that allows you and your doctor to customize your vision after cataract surgery. LAL gives you the ability to update your sight after cataract surgery to find your desired outcome.
Like other IOLs, the LAL is implanted during your cataract surgery. Once your eye has healed after cataract surgery, you return to your eye doctor to have your vision tested. During this visit you will be able to preview and compare possible vision outcomes based on your unique preferences and lifestyle requirements before selecting a prescription for your adjustable lens. Once your desired vision outcome is decided, your doctor performs a proprietary light treatment to the lens that precisely reshapes your implanted lens based on the visual correction that is needed to target your custom prescription.
How does the Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) work?
The Light Adjustable Lens (LAL) is made of a special photosensitive material that changes the shape and power of your implanted lens in response to ultraviolet (UV) light. Light treatments are delivered in your doctor's office. The light treatment procedure can be adjusted and performed multiple times to ensure the lens is correctly customized for your vison needs. Once you have found your desired visual outcome, you will receive your final light treatment. Your vision will be customized, and no further changes will be needed. The lens will be set and UV light will no longer affect the shape of the lens.
Is the Light Adjustable Lens right for me?
The Light Adjustable Lens has been approved by the FDA for use in cataract surgery recipients with or without astigmatism. If you have astigmatism and want the most out of cataract surgery, the Light Adjustable Lens may be the right lens for you!
