Best Cataract Specialists in SW Florida
Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy. If you are over age 60, you probably have cataracts to some degree. By age 75, cataracts usually begin to significantly affect vision. Our patients describe their vision as if they are looking through a dirty windshield all of the time. The good news about cataracts is that they are curable. The great news is that if you live or work in Cape Coral or Fort Myers, you are near the best cataract specialists in SW Florida, Elmquist Eye Group.
Cataract Evaluation
In the early stages, cataracts cannot be seen or felt, so the first detection of a cataract is often during discovered during an annual eye examination. A cataract eye examination is very similar to the general eye exam you are used to getting every year. However, our Elmquist cataract team does include a few additional tests to determine whether you have a cataract, the extent of the cataract and whether you are a good surgical candidate.
We will always take a general health history, which is important because certain health conditions can contribute to faster development of cataracts. People with diabetes and smokers often develop cataracts much more quickly and at an earlier age. We always want to review your medications and supplements list prior to surgery. Your health conditions will help us determine whether you are a good surgical candidate and what your post-surgery prognosis will likely be.
We test your vision under both glare conditions and in low lighting. Many of our patients first notice changes in vision under these conditions. The glare of oncoming headlights during night driving is often a first sign of a cataract, as is difficulty reading under low light. Part of the exam is a discussion between you and the surgeon regarding whether you’ve had any difficulties with driving, reading, and recreational activities. We will perform the following additional tests:
- Pupil Dilation: a common test used in cataract diagnosis that allows the doctor to more easily see your entire lens and therefore can also see whether you have a cataract.
- Visual Acuity: a test to measure vision at certain distances.
- Slit Lamp: examination of the eye lens with a special microscope. A slit lamp magnifies your eye so that the doctor can examine the lens under a special microscope to determine the extent of the cataract.
- Contrast Sensitivity: a test similar to visual acuity to test how well you can see image or color contrasts.
Cataract Surgery
Surgery is the only way to repair a cataract, and the procedure involves removing the clouded natural lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial lens. Rest assured, you are in good hands with Elmquist Eye Group, the best cataract specialists in SW Florida. Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most successful surgical procedures performed in the United States today. If you are a candidate for surgery, we will schedule you for further education regarding lens implant options and for preoperative measurements.