About Cataracts
Over fifty percent of the people over the age of 60, and quite a few people younger than that, suffer from cataracts. In fact, cataracts are so common, it is said that everyone will develop a cataract if they live long enough.

A cataract is a progressive clouding of the eye's natural lens that interferes with light passing through to the retina. Sufferers usually describe the condition as being similar to looking through a waterfall or a piece of wax paper, with a gradual blurring or dimming of vision.

Reading may become more difficult and driving a car can actually become dangerous. Cataract sufferers may also be troubled by a bothersome glare, halos around lights, or even double vision. As the cataract becomes worse, frequent changes in eyeglass prescription may become necessary.

Currently there is no medical treatment to reverse or prevent the development of cataracts. Once they form, there is only one way to achieve clear vision again, and that is to physically remove the cataract from the eye.

Cataract Surgery
In your parents' or grandparents' day, cataract surgery was considered risky, required a lengthy hospital stay, and was usually postponed for as long as possible. Today, cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure and takes only a few minutes. Patients can go home and rest in comfort and avoid the inconvenience and expense of staying in a hospital.

Successful Cataract Surgery
Everyone heals somewhat differently, but many cataract patients report improvement in their vision almost immediately after the procedure. Most patients return to their normal work and lifestyle routines within a day or two.

According to a survey conducted by the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery, more than 95% of cataract patients had their vision successfully improved after surgery. Many patients experience vision that is actually better than before they developed cataracts. Once removed, cataracts will not grow back. However some patients may experience clouding of a thin tissue called the capsule or "bag", that holds the lens implant. In most cases, a laser is used to restore clear vision.