Cataract Treatment in New Jersey

Here at the Laser Vision Correction Center of New Jersey we are committed to providing exceptional cataract treatment in New Jersey. Dr. Kenneth S. Miller is a highly distinguished cataract surgeon offering the most advanced surgical techniques and treatment currently available.

What are cataracts?

A cataract is a slow clouding of the natural lens of the eye over time. Eventually, the lens becomes so clouded that it can no longer focus effectively or transmit light to the retina. The eye's lens is composed of an outer membrane surrounding an inner layer of protein. Over time, this protein slowly discolors, turning yellow first, then brown, and eventually clouding over altogether. Cataracts are not a disease, but rather a natural process of aging – anyone who lives long enough could develop cataracts.

Normal Eye The clear lens focuses light on the retina.
Cataract Eye The cataract interferes with light before it reaches the retina
After Cataract Treatment An IOL replaces the eye's natural lens after cataract removal

How do cataracts affect vision?

People with cataracts experience a gradual blurring or dimming of their vision. The effect has been described as viewing the world through wax paper. This can make reading difficult and driving dangerous. Glare, halos and double vision are also commonly experienced. As the condition progresses, cataract sufferers require frequent changes in their glasses or contact lens prescriptions to compensate for their changing visual focus. Eventually, if left untreated, cataracts can block sight completely.

Is cataract treatment possible?

At this time, cataracts cannot be cured or treated medically. Surgical removal of the cataract (i.e., the lens of the eye) and replacement with an artificial lens (IOL) is the only way to restore clear vision. In the past, cataract treatment through surgery was a risky procedure that involved lengthy hospitalization. Modern techniques have changed that. Today, cataract surgery is safe, completed in just ten minutes, and performed on an outpatient basis. We provide complimentary limousine service for all our patients undergoing cataract surgery.

With cataract treatment in New Jersey we use a no injection, no stitch, no patch technique called small-incision cataract surgery (phacoemulsification). During the procedure, a topical anesthetic is applied to the eye. We then make a shallow, stair-stepped incision where the sclera (white part of the eye) meets the clear cornea. Next, sound waves are used to break up the clouded lens into microscopic pieces, which are then vacuumed from the eye. Finally, we implant a new, artificial lens called an intraocular lens or IOL. The stair-stepped style incision allows the eye's natural outward pressure to tightly seal the incision without the need for stitches.

What are the benefits of small-incision technique?

The combination of self-sealing incisions and topical anesthetic has turned cataract surgery into a quick, outpatient procedure with a rapid recovery time. In fact, patients are able to see out of the operated eye immediately after surgery and return to their regular activities the next day. Topical anesthetic, administered as eye drops, has replaced previous needle injections that often slow recovery time and sometimes cause swelling or skin discoloration. In addition, the small, self-sealing incision used in this advanced technique means the eye heals quickly without the need for stitches.

What can I expect following cataract treatment in New Jersey?

People heal at different rates; however, the majority of patients can expect to see clearly and return to their regular daily routine by the first or second day following cataract surgery. Most patients are able to drive, return to work, and even exercise the day after the cataract treatment procedure. Statistics on cataract surgery report a remarkable success rate. In a survey by the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, 98% of cataract patients reported successful improvement of their vision following their surgery!

How do I know when it's time to have a cataract removed?

That's really up to you. Cataracts can take months or years to develop. Many people live with cataracts for years, regularly adjusting their eyeglass prescription and learning to accommodate reduced visual clarity. When do you finally decide to have them removed? When you believe your quality of life would be significantly improved if you could see more clearly.