Cataract surgery provides a path to clear vision for those suffering from cataracts. Cataracts develop as protein builds up in the lens, blocking full light transmission and causing blurred or cloudy vision. They are very common, affecting over 22 million Americans and nearly all people over age 90. While age is a main risk factor, other risks include diabetes, eye injuries, medications, radiation, pollution, smoking, and alcohol. Regular eye exams can help reduce risks. Cataract surgery is a quick outpatient procedure that typically improves vision within a week, with full healing within 8 weeks and sometimes requiring glasses thereafter.

1. Cataract Surgery
The Path to Clear Vision
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2. The Function of the Lens
•Light is transmitted through
the eye and onto the retina—
causing a chemical reaction
that sends a message to the
brain through the optic nerve.
•The lens assists in allowing
light into the eye. The clearer
the lens is, the clearer the
image.
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3. What is a Cataract?
Acataract is a clouding of the lens that
contributes to blurred and impaired vision.
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4. How do Cataracts Develop?
Cataracts are
formed when
protein builds up
in the lens.
The buildup in the
lens blocks full
light transmission,
causing impaired
or cloudy vision.
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5. How Common are Cataracts?
According to the American Academy of
Opthalmology, cataracts affect over 22
million people in the United States alone.
Half of people over the age of 80 in the
U.S. have developed some form of
cataracts.
Cataracts affect nearly 100 percent of
people over age 90.
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6. Common Risk Factors
• Age
• Medical conditions such as diabetes
• Traumatic injury to the eye
• Medications like corticosteroids or diuretics
• Radiation and ultraviolet light
• Exposure to toxic substances and pollution
• High alcohol consumption
• Smoking or exposure to cigarette smoke
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7. How Can I Reduce Risk?
Schedule regular appointments
with an eye doctor.
Quit smoking.
Eat lots of fruits and
vegetables.
Exercise regularly and maintain
a healthy weight.
Wear sunglasses to limit your
exposure to harmful UV rays.
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8. Cataract Surgery
If you develop cataracts, the best option is
cataract surgery.
Surgery is performed by a trained eye
professional that assesses your needs and
structures a treatment plan to fit your
situation.
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9. What Results Can I expect from
Cataract Surgery?
A typical surgery only lasts about fifteen to
twenty minutes.
Most patients see vision improvement
within the first week after cataract surgery.
Your eyes should fully heal within eight
weeks.
After healing is complete, glasses may be
required to further improve vision.
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10. How do I Qualify for Cataract Surgery?
If you’re concerned that you may have
cataracts, visit a Utah cataract surgery
clinic near you.
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