Cataract Surgery in Monterey, CA

During cataract surgery, Dr. Penrose replaces the cloudy lens in your eye with an artificial lens implant. While the commonly used standard lens provides good vision, it may not be perfect. After the surgery, your eye doctor typically prescribes glasses to enhance your vision.

The Light Adjustable Lens offers a distinctive alternative to traditional lens implants and marks a significant advancement in the field. It stands out as the only lens globally that allows for post-insertion adjustment to cater to your specific needs. Approximately two weeks after the surgery, the doctor assesses your vision and employs a special ultraviolet light on your eye, triggering a power adjustment in the lens. This not only enhances your vision but also greatly increases the likelihood of achieving clear sight across all distances, enabling you to carry out your regular daily activities without relying on glasses.Top of Form

The Light Adjustable Lens is made of a photosensitive material.  The Light Adjustable Lens undergoes a change in shape when exposed to ultraviolet light. This light-based treatment lasts for around two minutes, ensuring a safe and generally painless experience.

The Light Adjustable Lens stands out as the exclusive lens employed in cataract surgery that that can be adjusted after it is implanted in your eye. This unique feature enables your doctor to precisely tailor the lens power according to your individual visual requirements. Moreover, it eliminates the necessity for additional invasive procedures, such as laser surgery.

Under certain conditions, individuals who have undergone LASIK or other vision correction procedures might be eligible for LAL surgery. However, this eligibility is contingent upon various factors such as your present eye health, corneal thickness, and other individual considerations. It is crucial to engage in a comprehensive discussion about your complete medical and surgical history with your refractive surgery specialist or eye doctor.

The adjustment procedure involves exposing the lens to a specific amount of UV light in 2-5 sessions. This application of UV light causes a change in the lens shape, effectively diminishing the refractive error. These adjustments are made once your eyes have completely healed from the initial surgery.

Light Adjustable Lenses have the capability to correct a wide range of refractive errors, including myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), and astigmatism. Their adaptability allows for precise adjustments to match the unique vision requirements of each individual patient.

LAL surgery is generally painless. Anesthetic drops are applied to numb the eyes throughout the procedure. While some LAL patients may feel slight pressure, many individuals report no discomfort whatsoever during the process.

Indeed, light-adjustable intraocular lenses have undergone thorough testing and are deemed safe. Like any surgical procedure, there exist potential risks and complications, although these occurrences are infrequent. Before the surgery, Dr. Penrose will engage in a comprehensive discussion, outlining all potential risks and benefits associated with the procedure.

The lens implantation itself typically takes less than 15 minutes per eye. The adjustment process, which involves UV light application, requires 2-5 outpatient visits after the initial surgery.

Following LAL surgery, a rapid recovery is commonly observed in most patients, allowing them to resume normal activities as soon as the next day. Nevertheless, the healing process varies for each individual, and Dr. Penrose will offer tailored guidance based on your specific circumstances.

The cost of LAL surgery varies based on a number of factors including your specific vision needs and geographical location. It is best to discuss the cost and any available financing options directly with your healthcare provider.

To assess your eligibility for LAL surgery, it is recommended to schedule a thorough eye examination with Dr. Penrose. During this examination, he can assess the health of your eyes and your eyeglass prescription, and engage in a discussion to determine whether LAL or an alternative vision correction procedure is the most suitable option for you.

Light Adjustable Lenses (LALs) are predominantly used to correct myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness), with the added capability of correcting astigmatism. Despite their significant enhancement of vision, it’s worth noting that presbyopia, an age-related difficulty in focusing on close objects, might still require the use of reading glasses. But this depends on your individual visual needs

Once the lens is implanted and fully adjusted, Light Adjustable Lenses are designed to last a lifetime. They do not need to be replaced over time. However, like any medical procedure, individual results may vary, and it’s best to discuss this with your surgeon.

The goal of the light adjustable intraocular lens is to enhance visual perception and reduce reliance on glasses or contact lenses. Nevertheless, glasses may still be necessary for specific activities like reading or driving, especially during nighttime. The extent of post-surgery dependence on glasses depends upon your individual vision needs and the overall outcome of the procedure.

After the LAL procedure, you will be required to wear special UV-protective glasses until the lens adjustment process is complete. This is to prevent unintentional changes to your lens from sunlight or other sources of ultraviolet light. Once the adjustment process is complete, no additional lifestyle changes are usually required.

Like many elective vision correction procedures, the cost of the light Adjustable Lens LAL is usually not covered by insurance. However, it is best to check with your specific insurance provider. Additionally, many ophthalmology practices offer financing options to help offset the cost.

It may be possible to have LAL surgery if you have previously undergone LASIK or other vision correction procedures. However, this depends on several factors including your current eye health, corneal thickness, and other individual circumstances. It’s important to discuss your full medical and surgical history with your eye surgeon.

Although you can’t undo existing cataracts, wearing good sunglasses with UV protection might slow down how fast they get worse. Eating a healthy diet with antioxidant vitamins is believed to stop cataracts from forming. Feel free to ask Dr. Penrose more detailed questions during your next visit.

Cataracts may not always cause significant disruptions to vision. They begin small and are often unnoticed by the patient. If a cataract advances to the stage where it impacts vision or affects one’s lifestyle, removal is recommended. However, if it remains stable, surgery might not be needed. It’s important to schedule regular comprehensive vision check-ups with your eye doctor to track the progression of cataracts. This way, decisions about whether to undergo cataract surgery can be made collaboratively.

A cataract cannot “grow back” since the lens, where the cataract develops, has been removed and replaced. The intraocular lens (IOL) implant doesn’t require maintenance or replacement. However, in some cases, a cloudy film may develop behind the implant on the lens capsule membrane a few months after the initial cataract surgery. This condition is known as posterior capsular opacification or secondary cataract, as it may appear as if the cataract has returned.

The symptoms of a “secondary cataract” resemble those of the initial symptoms, and the film is treated with a straightforward outpatient procedure known as YAG laser capsulotomy. Using a specialized laser, the surgeon can safely and swiftly restore vision by creating an opening in the capsule. This restorative procedure is quick, painless, and usually does not require repetition.

In cataract surgery, your surgeon employs local anesthetic (numbing eye drops) to ensure a pain-free procedure. A mild sedative may also be administered to help you relax. Additional medication may be used depending on the patient and the procedure type. As the effects of the medications subside, you might experience a scratchy sensation or mild soreness in your eye on the first day. Over-the-counter pain relievers can be used to ease discomfort, and if needed, Dr. Penrose may prescribe stronger pain medication.

There are various choices for your cataract surgery. While standard IOL implants provide clear vision, reading glasses may still be required, as before cataracts developed.

At Eye MD Monterey, we provide several premium intraocular lens options that can significantly lessen or even eliminate the need for corrective eyewear. Make sure to discuss your vision goals and explore the advanced technologies available with Doctor Penrose.

Like any surgery, cataract surgery carries some risk, although complications are exceedingly rare. It stands as one of the most frequently and effectively conducted surgeries in the U.S. In about 1 in 1,000 cases, potential complications include severe inflammation, infection, or retinal detachment. In about 1 in 100 cases, less severe complications like prolonged recovery time or the need for additional surgery may arise. Opting for an experienced surgeon significantly reduces the likelihood of complications during your cataract surgery.

Cataract surgery is typically performed one eye at a time to enable the surgeon to assess the outcome of the initial procedure before proceeding with the second eye. This assessment can influence decisions for the second surgery, particularly in cases involving an accommodative or multifocal lens.

Additionally, cataracts are individually removed as a precautionary measure, anticipating the rare possibility of infection or other complications. The slight risk of both eyes developing an infection is enough for doctors to recommend separate surgeries. Moreover, cataracts may not progress at the same rate, making simultaneous surgery unnecessary.

While simultaneous bilateral cataract surgery is feasible, most surgeons prefer separate surgeries due to the reasons mentioned.

Cataracts usually affect patients over age 55, however, anyone can develop a cataract. By the age of 65, 50% of people have developed a cataract and almost everyone over age 75 has at least one cataract. They occur due to the natural aging process.

In the uncommon event of an issue with your intraocular lens, adjustments can be made to enhance visual acuity. The IOL can be repositioned or substituted with a different lens type. It is highly atypical for a cataract procedure to require revision.

If left unaddressed, cataracts tend to progress, leading to further deterioration of vision. Ultimately, untreated cataracts can result in legal or complete blindness. While the implantation of an intraocular lens typically restores vision in most cases, advanced (or hyper-mature) cataracts can pose greater challenges during removal and carry a higher risk of complications.

In the initial stages, the progression of cataracts can sometimes be slowed down. Adjusting glasses prescriptions may also enhance vision and extend the period before cataract removal becomes necessary.

While ongoing research is exploring new possibilities, surgery remains the sole treatment capable of restoring vision impaired by cataracts. Modern cataract surgery has seen remarkable advancements, proving highly successful in addressing all facets of the condition.

Should you have further inquiries regarding your cataracts or the surgical process, Dr. Penrose and our staff are ready to assist with any concerns. Our objective is to deliver exceptional ophthalmological care to all our patients.

We provide cutting-edge, state-of-the-art treatments in cataract surgery, underlined by a commitment to excellence and a pragmatic approach. We greatly value the confidence and trust our patients have in us, and we are steadfast in upholding the highest standard of care possible.

For additional questions and more information about cataracts, please contact our Monterey office at 831-324-4730.

IOLs (intraocular lenses) are clear artificial lenses that an eye surgeon will implant in your eye to replace your natural lens. Like glasses or contacts, IOL implants can correct vision issues such as:

• Myopia (nearsightedness).
• Hyperopia (farsightedness).
• Presbyopia (age-related farsightedness).
• Astigmatism (altered eye shape).

IOL implants are permanent, meaning they stay in your eyes for the rest of your life. IOLs help improve your vision and may reduce your reliance on glasses in your daily routine. You receive IOLs during eye lens replacement surgery, most commonly during cataract surgery.

You may benefit from IOL implants if you:

• Have cataracts that prevent you from seeing clearly. Virtually everyone undergoing cataract surgery will need to have an IOL implant in order to restore vision.
• Have refractive errors that affect your vision, but you’re not a candidate for LASIK or other vision correction surgeries.

Various types of IOLs exist, each having its own advantages and disadvantages. For certain tasks, such as reading, some IOLs may require the continued use of glasses. While certain IOLs can diminish your dependence on glasses, you might experience side effects like nighttime glare around lights.

The following list outlines some broad categories of IOLs. Consult your ophthalmologist to determine the most suitable IOL for your specific vision requirements, lifestyle, and personal preferences. They will assist you in tailoring your IOL selection to meet your individual needs.

Monofocal lenses

The majority of individuals opt for this type of IOL. Monofocal lenses possess a single focusing power, addressing either distance, mid-range, or close-up vision. Typically, people choose to set their monofocal lenses for distance vision, aiding activities such as driving. It’s likely that you’ll still require glasses for close-up vision..

Monofocal lenses with monovision

Monofocal IOLs configured for monovision can be a favorable choice for those seeking reduced dependence on glasses. Typically, both monofocal IOLs for your eyes are set to the same range, such as distance. However, with monovision, each eye’s lens has a distinct focusing power. For instance, the lens for your right eye might address distance, while the lens for your left eye corrects for close-up vision.

In monovision, your eyes work together to facilitate clear vision for both distant and close-up objects. One challenge is that adjusting to monovision may take some time, and not everyone can adapt successfully. Therefore, before opting for monovision IOLs, your provider might recommend trying monovision contact lenses for a few weeks. This trial period allows you to assess whether this correction method feels comfortable for you.

Multifocal lenses

Multifocal lenses enhance both your close-up and distance vision, potentially minimizing your reliance on glasses. Unlike monofocal lenses, multifocal lenses incorporate multiple focal zones. Your brain adapts to these zones, selecting the appropriate focusing power for tasks like driving or reading. There may be an adjustment period to these lenses, but over time, your dependence on reading glasses should diminish, and some individuals may no longer need glasses at all.

A potential drawback of multifocal lenses is the possibility of noticing rings or halos around lights, particularly noticeable when driving at night

Extended depth-of-focus (EDOF) lenses

In contrast to multifocal lenses, Extended Depth Of Focus lenses feature a single extended focal point that broadens your corrected range of vision and depth of focus. These lenses provide outstanding distance vision and enhancements in mid-range vision, beneficial for activities like computer use. However, you might still find it necessary to use glasses for close-up tasks such as reading.

Accommodative lenses
Similar to your eyes’ natural lenses, these lenses adapt their shape to aid in seeing both close-up and distant objects. Accommodative lenses offer an alternative to diminish reliance on glasses. However, for extended periods of reading or focusing on close-up objects, you might still find it preferable to use glasses.

Toric lenses

Toric lenses are designed to assist individuals with astigmatism by enhancing the way light reaches the retina, resulting in sharper, clearer vision. Available in monofocal, multifocal, extended depth of focus (EDOF), or accommodative models, toric lenses aim to enhance the overall quality of vision. Additionally, these lenses contribute to reducing the occurrence of glare and halos, which are common artifacts experienced by individuals with astigmatism.

Light-adjustable lenses (LALs)

Distinguished from other IOL options, light-adjustable lenses undergo fine-tuning of their corrective power by your ophthalmologist after lens replacement surgery. Through a sequence of UV light treatment sessions spaced several days apart, these procedures tailor your lens prescription to achieve the closest possible match to your desired visual outcome. Despite being a type of monofocal lens, glasses will still be required for activities like reading or driving.

Phakic lenses

Phakic lenses are commonly inserted in younger individuals, aiming to maintain the natural human lens while addressing near-sightedness in those ineligible for laser refractive surgery. This approach safeguards your innate ability to focus and accommodate. While these lenses will eventually require removal during cataract surgery, they can provide clear vision for an extended period, especially in younger individuals.

Your ophthalmologist will assess whether cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange surgery is beneficial for you. They will discuss your options, guide you in choosing the most suitable IOLs, and conduct a comprehensive eye examination to evaluate your vision and eye health. Additionally, they will perform painless tests to measure your eye size and shape.

In preparation for discussions with your ophthalmologist, consider your priorities and preferences regarding IOLs. Reflect on questions like:

• How comfortable am I with wearing glasses occasionally, and for which tasks?
• What vision is essential for my work/profession, and am I willing to wear glasses for these tasks?
• Do I frequently drive at night, and can I adapt to glare and halos around lights?
• Which hobbies and activities do I enjoy the most, and how much dependence on glasses am I comfortable with for these activities?
• What is my budget for surgery?

While most insurance plans cover monofocal lenses, other types may require out-of-pocket payments. Make sure to inquire about the costs of various IOL options before finalizing your decision.

Most complications related to IOLs are infrequent and encompass:

• Posterior capsular opacification: Also known as a secondary cataract, this occurs months or years after surgery when a film-like material develops behind the implanted lens. It’s a common, expected process for almost everyone. Treatment is typically quick and straightforward, often performed using a laser in the office.
• IOL dislocation: This refers to the shifting of your IOL from its normal position. Individuals with certain eye conditions like pseudoexfoliation syndrome, a history of trauma or prior eye surgeries, and specific genetic disorders such as Ehlers-Danlos syndrome and Marfan syndrome face a higher risk. Repositioning or replacing the IOL may be necessary in some cases and may require surgery.
• Uveitis-glaucoma-hyphema (UGH) syndrome: UGH syndrome occurs when an IOL irritates your iris and other parts of your eye. This leads to inflammation, raised intraocular pressure and other symptoms. As with IOL dislocation, you may need surgery to reposition or replace the IOL. This is an extremely rare complication that most people don’t experience with routine surgery.
• IOL opacification: This is a clouding of your IOL. Your vision may become less sharp, and you may notice glare around lights. Treatment involves surgery to give you a new IOL. This is extremely uncommon with modern-day IOLs.
• Refractive surprise: A refractive surprise is when your vision after IOL implantation isn’t as sharp as you and your ophthalmologist expected. Your ophthalmologist will suggest a range of solutions. You may decide to accept the vision correction as is and do nothing further. Or you can choose to wear glasses, have laser vision correction (such as LASIK or PRK) or have an IOL replacement surgery.

Talk with Doctor Penrose regarding potential complications and your individual risk profile before deciding to undergo IOL implantation. He will provide insights into what you can anticipate, taking into account your medical history, eye health, and other relevant factors. Additionally, inquire about the common side effects linked to cataract surgery or refractive lens exchange. Ensure you gather all the necessary information to make a decision that aligns with your specific needs and preferences.