Eye Care | Cataracts

A cataract is a cloudiness or opacity in the eye's natural lens.The lens, which is normally transparent, is located behind the iris (the colored portion of the eye) and the pupil (the dark center of the eye). Cataracts are a natural part of aging, but may also occur in younger individuals as a result of various medical diseases, medications or trauma. Early cataracts may not significantly disturb vision, but may eventually cause blurred vision, sensitivity to light, glare, increased nearsightedness, or distorted images.

If symptoms of cataracts are mild, a change in glasses may be all that is necessary. However, if cataracts are causing symptoms that interfere with daily activities, surgery may be considered. Surgery is the only way to remove a cataract. In most cases, the cataract is removed using a process called "phacoemulsification". During phacoemulsification, a small incision is made in the eye. An ultrasonic device sends vibrations into the eye to break the lens into small pieces. The pieces of the lens are then suctioned out and are replaced by an intraocular lens. An intraocular lens is a clear manmade lens that replaces the cataractous lens to produce clearer vision. Cataract surgery is a highly successful procedure, improving vision in 95% of the cases.

Wheaton Eye Clinic is a leader in state-of-the-art cataract surgery, providing superb quality eye care.In 2002, more than 2,100 cataract surgeries were performed by the Wheaton Eye Clinic surgeons.

For more detailed information about a specific Ophthalmologist's diagnosis and treatment of cataract surgery, please visit their individual biographies at the following links:

• Charles S. Sandor Jr., M.D.
• Michelle G. Sims, M.D.
• Byron R. Tabbut, M.D.
• Anna J. Park, MD.
• Edward Sung, M.D.
• Steven R. Lafayette, M.D.
• Michelle E. Andreoli, M.D.
• Terry G. Voirin, D.O.

You can also check out the American Academy of Ophthalmology web site at www.eyenet.org for even more info about cataracts.

To schedule an appointment with one of the above physicians, please call (630) 668-8250.