At Central Florida Eye Institute in Ocala, FL, we perform cataract surgery to restore your vision and enhance your quality of life.
Cataracts can impede your vision and interfere with your daily activities. However, with advanced surgical techniques and decades of experience, we provide effective, personalized services.
With our state-of-the-art facility and thorough approach to patient care, our team – led by Dr. Thomas Croley, a member of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, American Medical Association, the Outpatient Ophthalmic Surgery Society, and the Florida Ophthalmic Society – ensures that you feel comfortable and confident throughout your cataract treatment.
What Are Cataracts?
The lens you were born with is usually crystal clear. However, the natural aging process kicks in each passing year and causes that lens to become hardened and discolored (yellowish or yellow-brown in color), even opaque.
This change interferes with the light entering the eye, which is necessary for seeing a clear image. The cataract diffuses the image, scattering the light rays and preventing the light from focusing on the retina, so the image we see is not as good as it used to be.
This is usually a gradual progression that is different for each person. Many people may not even notice a decrease in their vision.
Are Cataracts Hereditary?
No. Cataracts develop due to natural aging processes in the eyes, especially the accumulation of proteins. By age 65, it is estimated that over 90 percent of Americans have a developing cataract or have already had cataract surgery.
What Causes Cataracts?
If you are between the ages of 52 and 64, you have a 50% chance of developing cataracts. A cataract is the result of the aging of the natural clear lens in your eye.
Where is Surgery with Dr. Croley Performed?
Cataract surgery is performed here in our Ambulatory Surgical Center. This is the same location as our office, and you’ll be met with the same staff members you see at your regular appointments.
What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
The following are some of the most common cataract symptoms:
- Cloudy, fuzzy, foggy, or filmy vision
- Changes in the way you see colors (i.e., whites may look yellow)
- Problems driving at night because headlights seem too bright
- Frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription
- Feeling that your glasses are always dirty
- Double vision
These cataract symptoms can also be signs of other eye problems. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Croley to find out what is causing your vision issues.
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How is Cataract Surgery Performed?
A change in your glasses may temporarily improve vision. However, the only way to treat a cataract when glasses are no longer improving your vision is to surgically remove the cataract.
Dr. Croley performs a minimally invasive, small-incision, no-stitch cataract surgery called phacoemulsification (phaco) surgery. He makes a tiny incision in the eye to make room for a small ultrasonic probe. This probe is inserted, emitting ultrasound energy that breaks up or emulsifies the cloudy lens into tiny pieces. The pieces are then suctioned out through the probe. There are no injections or stitches.
Once the cloudy lens has been removed, the artificial IOL is implanted in the eye. Advanced foldable IOLs are inserted through the same small incision through which the original lens was removed. This significantly reduces recovery times while improving safety and reducing the risk of bleeding, scarring, irritation, and distortion. The entire procedure with Dr. Croley lasts just 10-15 minutes. Dr. Croley performs cataract surgery at his onsite Accredited Ambulatory Surgical Center in Ocala, FL.
See What Our Patients Are Saying:
“I would highly recommend Central Florida Eye Institute. I had my cataracts removed (It’s a whole new world) and everybody was super nice. Dr. Croley was knowledgeable and explained things to make you feel comfortable.”
-Ron E.
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Is Surgery Needed on Both Eyes?
Most patients will have cataracts removed from both eyes. They may not develop at the same rate, but the conditions that cause cataracts will exist in both eyes. These are handled in two separate procedures to allow the first eye to heal before having the second procedure.
Will I Need Eyeglasses After Cataract Surgery?
Until just a few years ago, it was pretty standard for a patient to require reading glasses for up-close vision after cataract surgery. The IOLs used were generally for either up-close or distance vision, with most people choosing distance. Recent advances in technology have changed your options. Today, multifocal and accommodating IOL options can eliminate the need for glasses in almost all situations. Dr. Croley will discuss your options during your consultation.
Will Cataract Surgery Improve My Night Vision?
Cataract-clouded lenses can really impact night vision, particularly when driving and dealing with low-light situations. This surgery will dramatically improve your night vision, along with all other areas of your vision.
Can I Have Cataract Surgery if I Have Had LASIK?
Laser vision correction such as LASIK and PRK correct the shape of the cornea to eliminate refractive errors. They do not affect the lenses of the eyes, which are replaced in cataract surgery. You can have LASIK when you are younger and cataract surgery when they develop at an older age.
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When Is Surgery Needed?
Just because you have a cataract does not necessarily mean it must be removed immediately through cataract surgery. However, on occasion, cataract surgery will need to be performed immediately. For example, Dr. Croley may need to see or treat an eye problem that is behind the cataract. Dr. Croley doesn’t decide for you but will present the facts and help you determine the best course of action.
Cataract surgery can almost always be put off until your vision begins to interfere with your lifestyle. Here are some things to consider:
- I need to drive, but there is too much glare from the sun or lights.
- I do not see well enough to do the things I need to do.
- I’m afraid I will bump into something or fall.
- My glasses do not help me see well enough.
- My glasses seem dirty all the time.
- I don’t see well enough to do the things I like to do (read, watch TV, sew, hike, play cards, and go out).
- Because of my cataracts, I am not as independent as I would like.
What Happens if I Don’t Treat My Cataracts?
What Are The Risks Of Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery in Ocala, FL, is a very safe procedure. Complications are rare, and when something does occur, it can usually be corrected. Your risk of complication is greater if you have another eye disease, such as macular degeneration or glaucoma.
These are some risks associated with cataract surgery:
- Inflammation
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Drooping eyelid
- Dislocation of the IOL
- Retinal detachment
- Glaucoma
- Secondary cataract
- Loss of vision
What to Expect During Recovery
Dr. Croley and his staff at Central Florida Eye Institute in Ocala will discuss reasonable expectations with each patient prior to any procedure. Most patients do recover with no problems and have improved vision. In fact, serious complications are not common with modern cataract surgery.
Immediately after surgery, someone will need to drive you home. Vision will likely be blurry initially but rapidly improves within a few days. This is completely normal. There will be some itching and discomfort, but it is important not to rub or exert pressure on the treated eye. Heavy lifting is out, as it puts pressure on the eyes. Eye drops prevent inflammation and infection and control eye pressure.
Full healing should be complete in about one month. If both eyes have cataracts, we will schedule the second eye for surgery one or two months after the first.
- You may return to normal activities in just a few days.
- You will use eyedrops for a short period of time.
- Most patients function without glasses for distance activities (driving, golf, swimming).
- Glasses or OTC readers may be necessary for reading, sewing, or computer work unless you choose a multifocal IOL customized cataract surgery.
How Should I Prepare for Cataract Surgery?
Before cataract surgery, it’s important to follow Dr. Croley’s guidelines for a smooth experience. They may include:
- Undergoing a comprehensive eye exam and specific tests to determine the correct intraocular lens (IOL) for your needs
- Stopping certain medications, particularly blood thinners, a few days before surgery to reduce bleeding risk.
- Using prescribed eye drops to reduce the chance of infection or inflammation.
- Avoiding eating or drinking for several hours before the surgery.
- Asking someone to drive you home afterward, as you will have impaired vision post-surgery.
How Long Does Cataract Surgery Take?
Cataract surgery is a relatively quick procedure. It generally takes 15 to 30 minutes per eye.
The surgery itself is brief. However, due to preparation and recovery time, you should plan to spend about 1 to 2 hours at our facility.
Is Cataract Surgery Painful?
Cataract surgery is generally not painful. You will receive local anesthesia in the form of eye drops to numb the eye. Because of this, you won’t feel discomfort during the procedure.
Some patients may feel mild pressure or a slight sensation of movement. However, they don’t report any significant pain.
Mild irritation or scratchiness in the eye after surgery is common. This usually subsides within a day or two, though. Over-the-counter pain relievers can help you manage any post-operative discomfort.
Can Cataracts Come Back After Surgery?
Cataracts themselves cannot return after surgery. This is because the natural lens that developed the cataract is removed.
Some patients may experience a condition known as posterior capsule opacification (PCO). This issue occurs when the back of the lens capsule becomes cloudy.
PCO can mimic cataract symptoms. Fortunately, it is treatable with a quick, painless laser procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy. It restores clear vision without requiring surgery.
Why Choose the Central Florida Eye Institute?
At Central Florida Eye Institute in Ocala, FL, we offer a range of eye care services all under one roof. These include clinic visits, minor office procedures, and a fully equipped optical shop and surgical facility. This integrated approach saves you time and frustration by addressing all your eye care needs in one convenient location.
Led by Dr. Croley, a leader in vision correction, cataract, and glaucoma treatment, our team’s extensive expertise ensures you receive quality care backed by advanced education and research. Choose us for a seamless, efficient, and expert-driven eye care experience.
Schedule Your Cataract Surgery Consultation Today!
Cataract surgery near me is offered at Central Florida Eye for patients in Ocala, Gainesville, Lady Lake, Leesburg, and Inverness, Florida. Contact us at (352) 237-8400 to schedule an appointment today!