Restore clear vision with cataract eye surgery in Walnut Creek at Vantage Eye Consultants, where Dr. Enoch Nam treats clouded lenses that impair sight, commonly caused by aging. Utilizing advanced technology, Dr. Nam replaces the natural lens with a clear intraocular lens (IOL), providing patients with a renewed outlook and enhanced visual quality.
Remove Cloudy Lenses and
Restore Optimal Vision
Cataracts develop when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, often due to aging, though they can also arise from other causes such as trauma, certain medications, or medical conditions. This cloudiness disrupts the passage of light, causing blurred or dim vision, glare, and difficulty with everyday activities. Cataract removal involves replacing the cloudy lens with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL), restoring visual clarity. At Vantage Eye Consultants, Dr. Nam specializes in advanced cataract treatments in Walnut Creek that provide patients with renewed vision.
Common Symptoms of Cataracts:
- Blurry or hazy vision
- Increased sensitivity to glare and bright lights
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Faded or yellowed colors
- Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription
- Double vision in one eye
- Reduced contrast and clarity
How Does Cataract Removal Surgery Work in Walnut Creek?
Cataract removal surgery involves the precise removal of the eye’s natural lens, which has become cloudy, impairing vision. Using advanced tools, the surgeon creates a small incision in the cornea to access the lens. The cloudy lens is then gently broken down using ultrasound waves (a process known as phacoemulsification) and removed from the eye. This process minimizes disruption to surrounding tissues, ensuring a faster recovery.
After the cloudy lens is removed, a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted in its place. The IOL is crafted to focus light correctly onto the retina, restoring clear vision. Modern IOLs can also correct refractive errors such as astigmatism, nearsightedness, or presbyopia, providing a comprehensive vision improvement. This procedure, performed by Dr. Nam at Vantage Eye Consultants, offers patients a lasting solution to cataracts in Walnut Creek.
Advantages of Cataract Removal Surgery:
- Restores clear vision by removing the cloudy lens
- Reduces sensitivity to glare and improves night vision
- Enhances color perception and contrast
- Potential correction for refractive errors like astigmatism, myopia, and presbyopia
- Allows quick recovery with minimally invasive techniques
- Reduces the need for frequent eyeglass prescription changes
- Improves overall quality of life and daily visual comfort
Optimal Precision With FLACS
Dr. Nam offers femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) for added precision in cataract removal at our Walnut Creek clinic. This technique uses a computer-guided laser to create precise incisions and soften the cataract before removal, allowing for a highly controlled and accurate procedure. FLACS can treat low levels of astigmatism and minimize the energy used within your eye, reducing the risk of collateral damage to surrounding tissues. Rather than recommending FLACS for all patients, Dr Nam’s approach is to utilize this technology when there may be a potential benefit in regard to safety and visual outcomes. During your consultation, Dr Nam will perform a comprehensive exam and review diagnostic testing to determine whether you may benefit from FLACS.
Cataract Removal Surgery FAQs
Will I Feel Any Pain During Cataract Removal Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a minimally invasive procedure, and Dr. Nam ensures your comfort with local anesthesia. You will be awake but feel little to no pain during the surgery. Many patients describe only mild pressure or no sensation at all.
Will I Need Glasses After Cataract Surgery?
The need for glasses after surgery depends on the type of intraocular lens (IOL) you choose. Premium IOLs, like multifocal or toric lenses, can significantly reduce or even eliminate the need for glasses for most daily tasks. Dr. Nam will discuss the IOL options with you to determine the best choice for your lifestyle and vision needs.
Will the Cataract Come Back?
Once the cataract is removed, it cannot return. The natural lens is completely replaced with an artificial one, which cannot develop cataracts. In some cases, a secondary cloudy membrane can develop behind the lens, which can be treated with a quick in-office laser procedure at our Walnut Creek location.
How Long Does the Cataract Surgery Take?
Your Walnut Creek cataract surgery itself typically takes about 10-15 minutes per eye. While the procedure is brief, plan for about 2-3 hours at the surgery center to accommodate preoperative preparation and postoperative recovery time.
Will I Need to Wear an Eye Patch After Surgery?
You will wear a protective eye patch following cataract surgery to optimize comfort. The next morning, you will remove the patch and start your postoperative eyedrops.
When Can I Resume Normal Activities After Cataract Surgery?
Most patients who’ve undergone surgery to remove cataracts return to light daily activities within a day. However, Dr. Nam recommends avoiding heavy lifting, rubbing the eyes, and strenuous exercise for at least a week to ensure optimal healing. He will give you detailed instructions on when to resume specific activities.
Restore Clearer Vision With Dr. Nam
At Vantage Eye Consultants, Dr. Enoch Nam brings compassion and excellence to each cataract eye surgery in Walnut Creek. As a board-certified cataract surgeon and cornea specialist with advanced training, Dr. Nam is trusted by patients and fellow physicians for his exceptional surgical precision and outcomes. He strives to deliver personalized solutions using cutting-edge technology to restore visual clarity. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Nam today to begin your journey to clearer vision.
