A cataract is a clouding of the eye's lens that can impair vision. Cataracts are the leading cause of vision loss in the world. They affect nearly 22 million Americans age 40 and older. Cataracts are treatable, and more than 90 percent of the people who have cataract surgery regain useful vision. As a board-certified ophthalmologist, Dr. Christian provides among the best cataract surgery Los Angeles and Santa Monica have to offer.
Cataracts and the lens
The lens is the clear part of the eye the helps focus light onto the retina, thus creating an image. With age and other factors, protein can build up, obstructing the light coming in and reducing the power of the lens to focus. This protein build-up is a cataract. At best, vision will be blurred and at worst, there is complete blindness.
Types of cataracts
The three most predominant types of cataracts are
Subcapsular cataract. This occurs at the back of the lens. People with diabetes or those taking high doses of steroid medications have a greater risk of developing this form of cataract.
Nuclear cataract. This forms deep in the central area (nucleus) of the lens and is usually associated with aging.
Cortical cataract. This is characterized by white, wedge-shaped clouds that begin on the outer edge of the lens and work their way inward.
Risk factors
While cataracts are mostly related to age, there are other factors that have been linked to the development to cataracts.
- Exposure to radiation for sunlight and other sources
- Diabetes
- Hypertension
- Obesity
- Smoking
- Prolonged use of corticosteroid medications
- Previous eye injury or inflammation
- Previous eye surgery
- Hormone replacement therapy
- Significant alcohol consumption
- High myopia
- Family history
If you are experiencing foggy, blurred vision or have any of the above risk factors, please contact our office to schedule a consultation. The key here is early detection. At the office of Dr. Christian, we offer among the best cataract surgery Los Angeles & Santa Monica have available.
Cataract treatment
The treatment for cataracts is a surgical procedure done by an ophthalmologist. Ophthalmologists are highly trained eye doctors capable of diagnosing virtually any eye condition and performing the corrective treatment necessary. Dr. Christian will administer the latest and proven techniques to improve your sight.
Cataract removal surgery involves actually removing the lens with the cataract on it and replacing it with a permanent implant. If both eyes have a cataract, one eye is done followed by the other, a few weeks later. This allows for optimum healing time and to ensure you receive the best outcome possible.
Schedule a consultation
If you are interested in cataract treatment or want more information, your next step is a consultation with Dr. Christian. During this time, he will perform any necessary exam to determine the best course of action to restore your eyesight. For years he has been delivering the best cataract surgery Los Angeles & Santa Monica have available. Please call our office today to schedule a consultation.
