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Cataract Surgery in Bakersfield, California
With age, each person’s unique DNA causes certain enzymes to decrease which our body requires to keep the lens of the eye crystal clear. Without these specific enzymes, the lens becomes cloudy, and gradually develops a cataract. Cataracts usually develop in most people after age 65. Some may develop them at a younger age due to diabetes, trauma, or excessive steroid use. Cataract surgery consists of removing this cloudy natural lens of the eye and replacing it with an intraocular lens or IOL. The surgery lasts only 10-12 minutes and dramatically improves the day to day vision of patients. Most people experience brighter vision, better color vision as well as improved distance and near vision within hours of completion of the surgery.
Modern Cataract Surgery
No surgery improves the lifestyle of an individual more than cataract surgery. At Southwest Eye Care and Laser, we perform the most widely used technique called Phacoemulsification during cataract surgery at our Bakersfield California clinic. After anesthesia with topical drops, a small 2.2 mm incision is made in the cornea. A small ultrasonic probe is gently inserted to break up the cataract and suction it away. All patients then receive an artificial lens implant. This lens, called an intraocular lens or IOL, is made from an acrylic material which is safe for life long use and has excellent visual clarity. This lens is rolled up and slowly inserted into the front area of the eye where the original lens was prior to being removed. Once inserted, the IOL gently unfolds into position behind the pupil of the eye. No stitches are necessary with this advanced surgical technique. A clear shield is placed over the eye after surgery.
After the procedure, and most patients leave the surgery center within 30 minutes to recover in the comfort of their own home. Patients are able to enjoy a light snack and drink immediately after surgery. Most patients enjoy improved vision within several hours. The speedy recovery allows most people to watch television the same evening after surgery.
Intraocular Lens Advancements
At Southwest Eye Care and Laser we offer the most advanced lens implants available. Patients are able to choose from high quality single vision lens implants as well as the new advanced technology lenses that decrease the need for reading glasses after cataract surgery. For those who have astigmatism we offer lenses that can correct some or all of it, providing less dependence on glasses.
As with all surgery, Dr. Stainer will listen to your concerns and advise you as to which implant is the most appropriate for both your eye and your lifestyle.
If you have any questions about cataract surgery, or other procedures, please contact us at our Bakersfield, California clinic today.