Cataracts occur when changes in the lens of the eye cause it to become less transparent, resulting in cloudy or blurry vision.

Cataracts interfere with the passage of light through the lens of the eye. The lens is a crystalline structure that sits just behind the pupil – the black circle in the center of the eye through which light enters. The light is focused by the cornea and the lens on the retina, a layer of light-sensitive cells at the back of the eye which creates electrical impulses of the image then transmitted to the brain, enabling us to see.

Cataracts most often start to develop in a person’s lens as they get older. Over time, cataracts become worse and start to interfere with vision. Important skills can be affected, such as driving, and loss of vision can affect the overall quality of life in many ways including reading, working, hobbies and sports. If left untreated, cataracts will eventually cause total blindness.

The good news is that cataracts can be easily treated. The primary treatment for cataracts is surgery to remove and replace the cloudy lens. Cataract surgery is a simple procedure that typically takes just about 15 minutes to complete.

If you suffer from cataracts, it is recommended that you have cataract surgery before your cataracts start seriously impairing your vision. If you wait too long, your cataracts can become hyper-mature which makes them more difficult to remove and can cause surgery complications. In general, the best outcomes for cataract surgery take place when surgery is performed soon after vision problems develop.

The best way to decide how and when to treat your cataracts is to discuss your options with your eye doctor. During an examination in Billings, your doctor will discuss treatment options with you based on your individual needs. To schedule an appointment at The Eye Clinic Surgicenter, contact us today by calling 406-252-6608 or visiting theeyeclinicsurgicenter.com.