Why choose Geisinger for cataract care?
Cataracts are a natural part of the eye's aging process, especially after 60. The good news? Treatment is quick and painless, and it can help your vision return to normal.
Our eye surgeons are specially trained to perform the most delicate eye surgeries, and they'll work with you to build a care plan for before, during and after your procedure. For cataract surgery, our surgeons use a method called phacoemulsification, or clear-cornea cataract surgery. It's an outpatient procedure that requires no sutures, so you'll typically head home the same day. The whole thing usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes.
Cataract surgery is one of the most common procedures performed each year, and it has high success rates for restoring vision.
Treatments and services we offer
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FAQs
What are cataracts?
What are the different types of cataracts?
There are 3 types:
- Nuclear sclerotic cataracts: Age-related and the most common type.
- Cortical cataracts: Develop on the outside of the lens and most often occur in people with diabetes.
- Posterior subcapsular cataracts: Form near the back of the eye.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
Common symptoms include:
- Cloudy or blurry vision
- Double vision
- Excessive glare
- Faded colors
- Frequent changes in vision
- Light sensitivity
- Poor night vision
These symptoms don't always mean you have cataracts, but it's worth talking to your doctor, since eye issues can point to other health concerns.
What causes cataracts?
Causes and risk factors for cataracts include:
- Age: Cataracts mainly occur after 60, though some babies are born with congenital cataracts.
- Certain health conditions: Diabetes, obesity, extreme nearsightedness or retinitis pigmentosa can raise your risk.
- Eye conditions: Previous eye injury, inflammation or other eye diseases can cause or speed up cataracts.
- Genetics: A family history of cataracts raises your odds.
- Smoking: Smoking increases your risk.
How do you diagnose cataracts?
Your eye doctor will perform a standard eye exam, which includes:
- A review of your vision history
- Visual acuity testing to measure distance and near vision
- Visual field testing to measure peripheral vision
- An eye health evaluation, which may include dilation, a fluid pressure test and an exam with a special microscope called a slit lamp
Cataracts can't be prevented, but your eye doctor can help you build a plan to slow their progression and protect your eye health.
How do you treat cataracts?
Depending on your stage, treatment may include:
- Contact lenses or glasses: In early stages, an updated prescription can sometimes improve your vision. If your cataracts aren't affecting your vision yet, your doctor may suggest holding off on surgery.
- Vision aids: Devices like magnifiers, telescopes and video technology can help you see better in daily life.
- Cataract surgery: Your surgeon removes the clouded lens and replaces it with a clear artificial one. It's an outpatient procedure that usually takes about 15 to 20 minutes, and most people go home the same day.
Where can I get cataract care in central and northeastern Pennsylvania?
Cataract care at Geisinger
Your eye care team is here to help you see clearly again. Here's what you'll find:
- Comprehensive eye care for all ages: Our optometrists and ophthalmologists offer a full range of vision care, from routine eye exams to complex surgical treatments, at every stage of life.
- Care for complex eye conditions: Our eye specialists are trained to diagnose and treat all vision problems, including cataracts and other complex conditions.
- The latest surgical options: If you need eye surgery, you'll have access to minimally invasive procedures with shorter recovery times. Many people head home the same day.
- A partner in lifelong eye health: Regular eye exams are one of the best things you can do for your vision, and changes in eye health can be an early sign of other conditions. Your eye specialist will help you stay on top of both.