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Cataracts

Living with cataracts can be like trying to see through a cloud of fog. Even daily tasks may become difficult to accomplish.

Monterey County Eye Associates in Monterey, CA, Salinas, CA, and King City, CA, provides treatment options to help you see clearly again.

Learn how our team of caring eyecare specialists can improve your vision with advanced cataract surgery and intraocular lenses.

Illustration of a normal and cataract lens

What Are Cataracts?

 
Behind the iris is a clear, natural lens that light passes through before reaching the retina. Age, injury, or illness can cause this lens to become progressively cloudier. The clouding is referred to as a cataract. It distorts the light that reaches our retina, causing vision issues. 

Cataracts are very common among people who are 65 and older. Factors like smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and high blood pressure can increase the risk of developing cataracts. 

Corrective surgery from Monterey County Eye Associates can restore your vision and greatly improve your quality of life.

Restore Your Vision With Cataract Surgery Contact Our California Offices Today 

If you're having trouble seeing the road while you're driving at night or constantly upgrading your eyeglasses, it may be time to consider cataract surgery. An IOL placement from our board-certified ophthalmologists can restore your vision to the point that you may no longer even need contact lenses or eyeglasses after surgery.

Monterey County Eye Associates have fluent Spanish-speaking team members at our King City, Monterey, and Salinas offices. 

To learn if cataract surgery is right for your eyes, request a consultation online or call:

(831) 424-1150

Monterey Eye offices

"Great service, excellent doctors." 5-Star Patient Reviews

1

Robert Crabtree

Monterey, CA

2023

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Great Service, excellent doctors. I highly recommend Monterey Eye Center.

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Mary Grace

Monterey, CA

2023

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Monterey Bay Eye Center has excellent doctors and staff. I highly recommend it and have been a customer for almost 20 years.

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Signs You May Have a Cataract

Not everyone who has a cataract needs surgery. Eyeglasses and contact lenses can improve your vision, making your cataract more manageable. However, some symptoms may indicate it's time for advanced treatment.

Cataract surgery can correct these symptoms:

  • Blurry vision
  • Cloudy vision
  • Sensitivity to light
  • Double vision
  • Dull-looking colors
  • Glare or halos caused by light
  • Difficulty driving at night
  • Constant changes to eyeglasses or contact lenses

If you are experiencing any of these symptoms, please contact one of our offices in Salinas, Monterey, or King City, CA. Our ophthalmologists can review your eye health and see if you're a good candidate for cataract surgery. 

Cataracts Will Not Go Away on Their Own

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It's important to remember that while glasses, contacts, and certain lifestyle changes can slow the progression of symptoms, they are not a cure for cataracts. The condition will worsen over time and continue to affect your vision. Cataract surgery and lens replacement with an IOL is the only permanent solution.

​Am I a Good Candidate for Cataract Surgery?

If you have been diagnosed with cataracts, our compassionate eye doctors can review your candidacy for surgery during a consultation at one of our ophthalmology offices in Monterey, Salinas, and King City, CA. With few complications and a number of incredible benefits, surgery can have a significant impact on improving your life. The basic requirements to qualify for cataract surgery are relatively straightforward and include:

Good Overall Health

While cataract surgery is relatively straightforward, it is important to be in good general health before proceeding with treatment—as with any significant medical procedure.

Vision Impeding Your Quality of Life

If symptoms of cataracts, such as double vision, halos, or blurred vision, are impeding your independence, surgery can replace your clouded lens to provide you with a new lease on life.

Reliance on Bright Lights

Advanced cataracts can make it difficult to see without bright lighting or other visual aids. This reliance on additional aids may be a sign that cataract treatment is necessary.

"Amazed with the results." 5-Star Reviews From Cataract Surgery Patients

1

Nadine Anderson

Monterey, CA

2023

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I had cataract surgery and it went very well. I've had other surgeries, but this is the only one for which I felt no pain. The were very helpful in explaining everything to e and answering my questions/

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Steve B

Monterey, CA

2023

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Underwent cataract surgery for the first time on the right eye and was amazed with the results. Staff is always thorough and friendly.

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​What Is an IOL?

An intraocular lens is an artificial lens of the eye that can replace a lens clouded by cataracts. There are many different IOLs available today, some of which can improve the clarity of your vision and reduce or eliminate your need for reading glasses at the same time. At Monterey County Eye Associates in Monterey, Salinas, and King City, CA, our ophthalmologists offer a wide range of IOLs including premium brands:

  • Alcon AcrySof® Toric IQ IOL
  • Alcon Acrysof® IQ Vivity® IOL
  • PanOptix Trifocal IOL
  • J&J TECNIS Eyhance™
  • J&J TECNIS Symfony™
  • J&J TECNIS Synergy™

During an appointment at one of our eye care offices, we can review your IOL options to help you choose the best fit for your individual goals and budget.

The Three Main Types of IOLs Monofocal, Multifocal, and Toric

Selecting the right IOL is imperative for restoring your vision. There are two main types of IOLs to choose from:
Monofocal IOL

Monofocal

A monofocal lens has a single focus strength and is usually designed for patients with clear distance vision. Patients usually still need glasses to help with up-close tasks like reading. Cataract surgery with a monofocal IOL is generally covered under insurance plans, potentially eliminating out-of-pocket expenses. 

Multifocal IOL

Multifocal

A multifocal lens has different refractive focusing strengths that can adapt for near, medium, and long-distance vision. Choosing a premium lens may increase your treatment costs, but many patients find the benefits are worth the extra price. 

Toric IOL

Toric

Toric lenses can be either monofocal or multifocal. What makes them different is that they can improve both distance vision and astigmatism, a problem with the eye's curvature that causes blurred vision. In the past, those with both astigmatism and cataracts had limited options for addressing these issues simultaneously. With a toric IOL, you can improve multiple aspects of your vision during one procedure.

Our doctors have many decades of combined experience and remain at the forefront of innovation in surgical and non-surgical eye care. When you turn to us, your cataract surgery will be handled by an expert in ophthalmology.

A Closer Look at Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery can either be performed with ultrasound waves, the conventional method, or with laser technology, a newer treatment option. During the procedure, the ultrasound or light waves segment the eye's clouded lens into small pieces, which are then gently suctioned away. After the natural lens is removed, your surgeon will implant an IOL to replace it.

Cataract Surgery Timeline

The eye doctors at Monterey County Eye Associates perform cataract surgery at the outpatient Monterey Peninsula Surgical Center and the Salinas Surgery Center. If you need surgery on both eyes, we recommend treating one eye at a time. While every surgery is different and depends on the type of IOL selected and any other eye care needs you may have, the procedure generally includes:

You will notice a clear difference in your vision within 48 hours of cataract surgery.

The procedure is virtually painless. We'll thoroughly numb your eye with anesthetic eye drops and ensure your full comfort before beginning.
You will notice a clear difference in your vision within 48 hours of cataract surgery.

The procedure is virtually painless. We'll thoroughly numb your eye with anesthetic eye drops and ensure your full comfort before beginning.

Consultation and Exam

During your initial consultation, if you are a new patient with Monterey County Eye Associates, we will conduct a thorough eye exam to ensure there are no other issues with your cornea, retina, or optic nerve that may be affecting your vision. We will review your IOL options and answer any questions you may have about treatment before we proceed.

Preparation

On the day of surgery, our doctor will dilate your pupils and administer a local anesthetic to numb the area. You may also be given a sedative to help you relax depending on your level of anxiety.

Surgery

To provide the most accurate results and reduce recovery time, our doctors use an advanced technique for cataract surgery. Precise small 2 mm incisions are made in the cornea of the eye and a probe utilizing gentle ultrasound energy is used to remove the clouded lens. Laser-assisted options are also available. Once the clouded lens is removed, the IOL is implanted.

Recovery

Immediately after surgery, your vision will be blurry. You will need someone to drive you home. Over the next few days, you will begin to notice a marked improvement in the clarity and sharpness of your vision. Wearing sunglasses, a protective shield, or an eye patch can protect your eye while it heals. 

Follow-Up

In the days following surgery, resist the urge to rub or touch your eye, even if it is itchy. This can increase your risk of infection. Our doctors will schedule several follow-up appointments, the first a couple of days post-surgery, the second a week after, and a third a month after, to make sure your eyes are healing well. It takes about eight weeks for your eye to heal completely.

Contact Monterey County Eye Associates If You Have Declining Vision 

If you have a cataract or are experiencing a noticeable change in your eyesight, the doctors at Monterey County Eye Associates can examine your vision to determine if surgery can improve your sight.

If left untreated, cataracts can greatly reduce your vision and negatively impact your life. With locations in King City, Salinas, and Monterey, CA, our expert ophthalmologists offer some of the most sophisticated eye treatments in the area.

Fill out our quick contact form or call us at:

(831) 424-1150

Top Reviews For Our Ophthalmology Team

1

Jerry Robertson

Monterey, CA

2023

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Doctor Shi did an awesome job in the office and the surgery was so easy. The Staff at the Office and surgery center were very good. Great job for everyone.

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Kathy Smith

Monterey, CA

2023

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What a 'treat' it was having cataract surgery. No kidding! I almost hesitate to even call it surgery. Everything was so professional and so well done. And then, the icing on the cake, I can see again. The colors. The clarity. The sparkliness. And WHITE! Who knew white was so white. Surgery is very quick and for me, it was painless. Do it.

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What to Expect After Cataract Surgery

We recommend patients relax their eyes for at least a few days after the cataract removal procedure. Eye drops will help your eye heal after your surgery.

You can expect the following in the approximately eight weeks it takes for your eyes to fully heal:

Slightly Blurry Vision Right After Your Surgery

Your eyesight will noticeably improve over the course of the next few days.

Some Mild Soreness and Itchy Eyes 

Rubbing your eyes can cause retinal detachment or infection. Our doctors can prescribe antibiotic eye drops, which can help manage any uncomfortable after-effects of surgery. 

Sensitivity to Light for a Short Period 

Minimize discomfort by wearing sunglasses and avoiding direct sunlight.

You'll attend follow-up appointments so our doctors can track your recovery. If you are experiencing any pain, unusual itchiness, or swelling, contact one of our offices immediately

Risk Factors

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There are a few potential complications to watch out for after your cataract surgery. Infection, retinal detachment, or increased pressure in the eye may occur, but the instances of these complications are extremely rare. Our doctors will take every precaution to minimize risk factors during your surgery to ensure a problem-free recovery.

Maintaining Your Results

In addition to attending follow-up appointments, patients can maintain the results of their cataract removal surgery by:

  • Wearing Protective Eye Gear

    Sunglasses can block harmful UV rays and prevent your eyes from being overwhelmed by bright light. If you're engaged in an activity where something can hit your eyes, wear protective glasses.  

  • Eating a Healthy Diet

    Green, leafy vegetables and foods that contain healthy fats can improve your eye health. Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption can also prevent further vision problems.

  • Quitting Smoking

    Studies show that tobacco use increases your risk of developing cataracts and other eye diseases.

  • Maintaining an Active Lifestyle

    Obesity and high blood pressure can lead to cataracts and other vision issues, so maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Insurance Coverage for Cataract Surgery

Conventional cataract surgery performed via ultrasound is typically covered by insurance, but laser cataract surgery is not. Choosing a premium multifocal or toric IOL will add to your treatment costs, but the results are well worth it if they align with your individual needs.

The doctors at Monterey County Eye Associates believe eye health is important and that treatment should be accessible. 

Our offices are flexible when it comes to paying for treatment. In addition to accepting nearly all insurances, Monterey County Eye Associates accepts most major credit cards. Our staff will work with your insurance to see that you get the most for your coverage. 

Will LASIK Fix My Cataracts?

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LASIK is a great surgery for correcting vision problems like nearsightedness (myopia), farsightedness (hyperopia), or astigmatism. However, LASIK reshapes the cornea and will not fix the clouded lens of the eye caused by a cataract. 

We Thank Our Patients  For Their High Praise

"My visit was wonderful - I was first met by Sean who proceeded to take the preliminary tests and was so friendly, courteous and efficient.  He answered each one of my questions very clearly. Dr. Rosenbaum is just a great doctor - he is friendly and his expertise really makes me confident in my eye health since i have an underlying condition - Great staff." Karen R.
The team of doctors at Monterey County Eye Associates

Monterey County Eye Associates
Leland H. Rosenblum, MD - MBEC
Eric J. Del Piero, MD

Our team of ophthalmologists provides state-of-the-art eye care using the latest technology. They are proud to be affiliated with: 

  • AAO: American Academy of Ophthalmology
  • ABO: American Board of Ophthalmology

To schedule an appointment, please call us at one of our four ophthalmologist office locations in Monterey, Ryan Ranch, Salinas, and King City, or contact us online.

Contact Us Today

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