There’s a common misconception that cataracts only develop much later in life. The truth is, low vision symptoms are more pronounced in older people, but cataracts can begin to form at a much earlier age. In fact, younger patients who undergo cataracts treatment have a much higher success rate at keeping their vision intact even through their senior years.

What Happens During Cataract Surgery?

The lens in your eyes is an intricate arrangement of fluids and proteins that allow your eyes to focus light. Over time, the proteins begin to clump together, slowly growing into a mass that starts as a small blur in your field of vision. This protein clump develops into a full-blown cataract. During the surgery, your eye doctor will surgically remove the clouded lens and replace it with an intraocular lens (IOL) that will permanently stay with your eyes.

Advantages of Early Cataract Treatment

Surgical options for many eye conditions are now readily available to almost everyone. Cataract removal is one of the most common eye-related procedures done in the world. The whole surgery lasts for at most 20 minutes and can have lasting effects on the quality of your life. It’s better to resolve the issue now while it’s still in its early stages than having to suffer through it later on in life.

Get ahead of cataracts with a comprehensive eye exam from our specialists at Northern Virginia Doctors of Optometry. We are your leading provider of eye care, from prescription lenses to sports vision training. Give us a call at Falls Church (703) 573-1200, or fill out our online contact form to schedule a consultation and request a free estimate today. We serve patients in Falls Church, VA, as well as all neighboring areas.