Treatment of Cataracts
For people who are significantly affected by cataracts, cataract removal and intraocular lens replacement is the preferred method of treatment. During cataract replacement (the most common surgical procedure in the country), the lens is removed and replaced with an artificial one called an intraocular lens implant or IOL.
Cataract surgery is one of the most frequently performed and successful surgeries in the United States. Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure performed under local anesthesia and generally involves two steps: the cloudy lens is removed and usually replaced with a uniquely designed lens called an IOL, specifically powered for your eye. During surgery, a small incision is made in the eye. Microsurgical instruments are used to break the cloudy lens into small pieces and then those pieces are suctioned out. The posterior or back capsule of the eye is left in place to help support the IOL. Today's "no stitch" procedure allows you to go home quickly and experience improved vision much sooner. After cataract surgery, you may return almost immediately to all normal activities. We will direct you in the correct use of your post-surgery eye drops. Several postoperative visits are needed to check on the progress of the eye as it heals.
Treatment of Macular Degeneration
The "dry" form of macular degeneration has no treatment. The "wet" form is now treated with special intraocular injections of a medication that will reduce bleeding, leakage, and swelling of the retina. Our group of retinal specialists are able to provide all treatment options in the management of macular degeneration.
Treatment of Glaucoma
Treatment of glaucoma can be performed with eye drops, but new technology allows us to perform a special SLT laser that may effectively control glaucoma without the use of eye drops. In severe forms of glaucoma, intraocular surgery can be performed.
Treatment of Ptosis - "Droopy Eyelid(s)"
Ptosis repair surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure under local anesthesia. Ptosis repair is the adjustment of the eyelid so as to improve eyelid drooping. The procedure may be required on one or both eyes depending on patient characteristics.
If treatment is necessary, it is usually surgical. Sometimes a small tuck in the levator muscle and eyelid can raise the lid sufficiently. More severe ptosis requires reattachment and strengthening of the levator muscle. The excess skin of the upper eyelid(s) will be removed during the surgery as this improves side vision and other symptoms. Removal of the excess skin in either the upper or lower eyelid(s) may improve appearance.
