Removal of cataracts is crucial to prevent severe loss of vision and the debilitating effects that this common condition can cause.
What Are Cataracts?
If you live in Prescott or Chino Valley and have noticed your vision becoming cloudy or blurry, you may be experiencing one of the most common eye conditions associated with aging: cataracts.
Our eyes work much like a camera. Each eye has two natural lenses that help focus light: the cornea, which is the clear outer surface, and the crystalline lens, located inside the eye. These lenses work together to focus images clearly onto the retina at the back of your eye.
At birth, the crystalline lens is perfectly clear. But as we age, this lens begins to yellow, harden, and lose transparency. When it becomes cloudy enough to impact vision, it’s known as a cataract.
Cataracts: A Natural Part of Life
Nearly everyone will develop cataracts if they live long enough. It’s not something you catch or cause—it’s simply part of the aging process. While cataracts can quietly start forming in your 40s or 50s, they typically don’t interfere with daily life until after age 60.
But age isn’t the only factor. Certain health conditions and lifestyle habits can nudge cataracts along a little faster. If you have diabetes, have experienced an eye injury, spend years under intense sun exposure without eye protection, or use steroid medications long-term, your risk may be higher. Even tobacco use can speed up the clouding process in your eye’s natural lens.
Cataract surgery has come a long way—and today, it’s safer, quicker, and more precise than ever before.
For many years, most patients received a standard IOL lens, which provides clear vision at one distance—typically far away—meaning glasses are still needed for reading or close work. Now, advanced technology lenses are available that offer a wider range of vision, helping reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses after surgery.
Whether you’re active outdoors, love reading, or spend hours on screens, there’s likely a solution designed just for you.
Very timely, professional, and addressed all my concerns. We have a good plan going forward. I felt better educated and able to make an informed decision about my cataract surgery
Cathy B.
Google
Have been coming here for my annual eye exam for years. Have seen the technology change for the better. My time was quick, the tech was professional, and Dr. Mortenson, as always, was easy to work with and listened to what I had to say.
Barbara M.
Google
FAQ: Cataract Surgery
A cataract happens when the natural lens inside your eye becomes cloudy. This can make vision look blurry, dim, or yellowed, and it often increases glare, especially at night.
Common cataract symptoms include blurry or hazy vision, increased glare and halos around lights, trouble driving at night, faded colors, frequent prescription changes, and needing brighter light to read.
A comprehensive eye exam can confirm whether cataracts are causing your symptoms or if another issue, like dry eye or a prescription change, is contributing. Cataracts are diagnosed by examining the lens and evaluating how your vision is functioning.
Cataract surgery is usually recommended when cataracts start interfering with daily life, like driving, reading, work, or hobbies, and when glasses no longer provide the clarity you need. The “right time” depends on your symptoms and your goals, not just the appearance of the cataract.
No. Modern cataract surgery does not require waiting until a cataract is advanced. Many people choose surgery when symptoms begin to limit daily activities.
Yes. Cataracts commonly increase glare and reduce contrast, which can make headlights and streetlights feel harsh and night driving more difficult.
Most patients feel little to no pain during cataract surgery. The eye is numbed, and your care team focuses on keeping you comfortable throughout the procedure.
The procedure itself is usually quick, but plan to be at the surgery center longer for preparation and recovery. Your team will walk you through timing and what to expect on surgery day.
An intraocular lens is the clear, artificial lens placed in the eye during cataract surgery to replace the cloudy natural lens. IOL choices can affect how much you rely on glasses afterward.
Some people still need glasses for certain tasks, especially close work, depending on their lens choice and pre-existing prescription. The goal is to choose a plan that matches how you want to use your vision day to day.
In many cases, yes. Some cataract surgery plans include options to reduce astigmatism, which can improve clarity and reduce dependence on glasses. Your surgeon will confirm what is appropriate for your eyes.
Cataract surgery is usually done one eye at a time to allow healing and to ensure the best outcome. Your surgeon will recommend the safest timing between eyes.
Many patients notice clearer vision quickly, but healing continues over several weeks. Your surgeon will provide detailed instructions and follow-up appointments to monitor progress and keep recovery on track.
Most people can return to many normal activities quickly, but you may be asked to avoid rubbing your eye and to limit heavy lifting or swimming for a short period. Your surgeon will give specific guidance based on your case.
Cataract surgery is very common and generally safe, but as with any procedure, risks exist. Your surgeon will review risks and benefits with you and explain how your eye health affects your plan.
Many people with other eye conditions can still have cataract surgery, but the approach and lens choice may be adjusted. A full evaluation helps set realistic expectations and tailor your surgical plan.
If you notice sudden vision loss, flashes of light, a curtain-like shadow, significant eye pain, or a sudden increase in floaters, seek urgent evaluation right away. Those symptoms can signal a different issue that needs prompt care.
Schedule a cataract evaluation so your doctor can confirm whether cataracts are causing your symptoms, review your lens options, and recommend next steps based on your lifestyle and vision goals.
Schedule Your Cataract Consultation
Discussing your lens options with your care counselor and surgeon before surgery is vital to ensure you get the lens most suited to your needs.
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