Southwest Florida's Health and Wellness Magazine Health and Wellness Articles
Cataracts are a common eye condition that affects millions of people worldwide. As we age, the natural lens in our eyes can become cloudy, causing blurred vision, sensitivity to light and glare, and difficulty seeing at night. Cataracts can significantly impact our daily lives, making it challenging to perform routine tasks such as reading, driving, or engaging in outdoor activities.
What Causes Cataracts?
Cataracts can develop for various reasons, but the most common cause is aging. As we get older, the proteins in our eye lenses can clump together, causing the lens to become opaque and cloudy. Other factors that can contribute to cataract formation include:
1. Exposure to ultraviolet radiation from sunlight
2. Smoking
3. Diabetes
4. Obesity
5. Eye injuries or inflammation
6. Certain medications, such as corticosteroids
7. Genetic disorders
Treatment Options for Cataracts
While cataracts cannot be reversed or treated with medication, the only effective treatment is surgical removal of the clouded lens. Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure performed on an outpatient basis, typically taking less than an hour.
During cataract surgery, the clouded natural lens is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). At our practice, we offer three types of cataract surgery to meet the diverse needs of our patients:
1. Advanced Cataract Surgery
This option utilizes the latest technology and premium IOLs to provide patients with the best possible visual outcomes. Advanced cataract surgery can correct presbyopia (age-related farsightedness) and astigmatism, reducing or eliminating the need for glasses or contact lenses after surgery.
2. Custom Cataract Surgery
Custom cataract surgery involves precise measurements and customized IOL implants tailored to each patient’s unique eye structure and visual needs. This approach aims to optimize visual acuity and reduce visual distortions, providing a personalized solution for those seeking exceptional visual clarity.
3. Basic Cataract Surgery
Basic cataract surgery is the most cost-effective option, involving the removal of the clouded lens and implantation of a standard monofocal IOL. While this option may still require the use of glasses or contact lenses for certain activities, it effectively restores vision clarity and eliminates the cataract.
Choosing the Right Lens Option
When it comes to selecting the appropriate lens option for cataract surgery, several factors should be considered, including your lifestyle, visual demands, and personal preferences. Our experienced ophthalmologists will carefully evaluate your eyes and discuss your goals to help you make an informed decision.
Advanced and custom lens options offer the potential for greater visual freedom and reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses. However, these options may come with higher costs and may not be suitable for everyone. Basic cataract surgery, on the other hand, provides a more affordable solution while still effectively treating the cataract and improving vision.
Regardless of your lens choice, cataract surgery is a safe and effective way to restore clear vision and improve your overall quality of life. Our team is committed to providing personalized care and guidance throughout your journey to better vision.
JON R. BERLIE, M.D.
LASIK, Cataract & Lens Replacement Surgeon
Dr. Berlie is a board-certified ophthalmologist who specializes in LASIK and premium lens cataract surgery. He has been serving the Naples community for over 20 years. Dr. Berlie achieves superior visual outcomes for his cataract patients by utilizing the latest lens technology combined with state of the art equipment. His expertise in this area has led the Center For Sight Naples office to be recognized as the “Best Eye Center” in Naples, FL for the past 15 years. In addition to laser cataract surgery, Dr. Berlie performs vision correction procedures including All Laser LASIK, Epi-LASEK, Refractive Lens Exchange (RLE) and Implantable Contact Lenses. He is also skilled in reconstructive and cosmetic eyelid surgery. He has been honored as one of America’s “Top Doctors” by the prestigious Top Doctors list, published annually by Castle Connolly Medical, Ltd.
Dr. Berlie completed his undergraduate training at the University of Victoria in British Columbia, Canada and the California State University of San Bernardino where he received the California State University of San Bernardino Research Scholarship Award. He then attended Creighton University School of Medicine in Omaha, Nebraska where he graduated Cum Laude, was elected as Class President, and received the Senior of the Year Award. He completed his internship in internal medicine also at Creighton University Medical Center.
Dr. Berlie continued his education at the University of Nebraska Medical Center where he completed his ophthalmology residency and received the awards of Chief Resident and the Resident of the Year Award. Dr. Berlie then went on to Saint Anthony Hospital in Oklahoma City to complete his fellowship training in Oculoplastic and Aesthetic Laser Surgery.
239-310-2020
www.centerforsightswfl.com
700 Neapolitan Way, Naples, FL 34103
