Cataract Surgery Monterey
Intraocular Lenses The Key to Restoring Clear Vision
An intraocular lens (IOL) replaces a natural 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. 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 our offices in Monterey, Salinas, or King City, we can review your IOL options to help you choose the best fit for your individual goals and budget.
Choosing the Right IOL Monofocal, Multifocal, or Toric
Selecting the right IOL is imperative for restoring your vision. There are a few main types of IOLs to choose from:
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
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
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.
“I no longer need contacts
or glasses for distance vision.”
"I have worn glasses as a child then started contacts as a teenager. When I decided to go ahead with cataract surgery I was offered a relatively new procedure involving Light Adjustable Lens with the possibility I would no longer need contacts.
I had both eyes done about 2 weeks apart and a follow up adjustment of the both lenses a month latter. There was no pain or complications. The outcome is excellent. I no longer need contacts or glasses for distance vision.
I certainly highly recommend Dr. Rosenblum and the staff at Monterey Bay Eye Center without hesitation"
— Thomas M., 5-star review
Meet Our Board-Certified Cataract Surgeons Serving Monterey, Salinas, and King City
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.
Whether you visit our ophthalmology offices in Monterey, King City, or Salinas, your care will be handled by a trusted specialist who has distinguished themself through education, training, and a track record of superior patient results. We invite you to request your initial consultation for cataract surgery today.
Affordable, Stress-Free Cataract Surgery in Monterey County
Clear vision should never feel out of reach. That’s why we keep cataract surgery accessible and affordable by:
Accepting most major insurance plans — conventional cataract surgery is typically covered
Working with your insurer to maximize benefits, even when out-of-network
Offering flexible options for out-of-pocket costs, including major credit cards
Premium IOLs, such as multifocal or toric lenses, may involve added costs, but they can deliver greater freedom from glasses and a higher quality of life. During your consultation, we’ll review your coverage and payment options so you can make the best choice without financial stress.
What Causes Cataracts and How They Affect Your Vision
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 your 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 can restore your vision and greatly improve your quality of life.
Symptoms That Signal It’s Time for Cataract Surgery in Monterey
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 Monterey, Salinas, or King City, CA. Our ophthalmologists can review your eye health and see if you're a good candidate for cataract surgery.
Cataracts Require Surgery to Restore Vision
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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.
Turn to Us for Cataract Surgery in Monterey, Salinas, or King City
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 Monterey, Salinas, and King City offices.
Get in touch with us today to see if cataract surgery is right for you.
“Monterey Bay Eye Center
has saved my sight.”
“Monterey Bay Eye Center has saved my sight with awesome cataract replacement lenses that have kept me from buying glasses for many years. I am confident in their advice and their great work. I just had a visit and results 20/20 vision Thank you”
— Jeanie, 5-star review
The Life-Changing Benefits of Cataract Surgery
If you suffer from blurry vision caused by cataracts, surgery at Monterey County Eye Associates can improve the symptoms affecting your eyesight and reduce your need for glasses. The benefits of addressing cataracts with surgery at our eyecare practice include:
Restored Clear Vision
A cataract is a clouding of the lens, which is responsible for focusing light on the retina of the eye. Our doctors use the latest advancements in ophthalmology to treat the symptoms of cataracts, removing the clouded natural lens and replacing it with an artificial lens known as an IOL (intraocular lens).
Improved Quality of Life
Following surgery, you can get back to getting the most out of the life you want to live. Thanks to your new artificial lenses, you will be able to resume all of your favorite indoor and outdoor activities, from hiking to tennis or golf. Basic day-to-day necessities like driving also become much safer and easier.
Reduced Risk of Falling
Left untreated, cataracts can lead to further loss of vision and eventually blindness. As this condition progresses, it can be increasingly difficult to see objects that pose a tripping hazard. Replacing a clouded lens can decrease the risk of tripping and falling over an object that you cannot see due to poor eyesight.
Who Qualifies 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.
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.
“A life-changing event
and virtually painless.”
“I had cataract surgery on both eyes a week apart. Dr. Shi was excellent both in her surgical ability and beside manner. She clearly explained everything to me from start to finish no mysteries involved. Her staff at her office is also very well trained and professional.
It's only been 2 days and already I can notice the difference in my eyesight. If you're having problems seeing and have been diagnosed with cataracts please go see Dr Shi or any of the other surgeons in that practice. It's a life-changing event and virtually painless.
Follow-up treatment is basically using different types of eye drops at different times of day, it's very easy. You'll be happy that you did so.”
— R.L. F., 5-star review
How Cataract Surgery Works
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 laser segments the 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.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Cataract Surgery in Monterey
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:
Many patients notice an improvement within a few days 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.
Recovery Timeline 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 often takes for a patient's 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.
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.
If you are experiencing any pain, unusual itchiness, or swelling, get in touch with us immediately.
Maintaining
Long-Term Results
After Cataract Surgery
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.
Don’t Ignore Vision Loss Contact Our Cataract Specialists Today
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.
LASIK Can’t Treat 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.
