Lifestyle lenses clear cloudy vision quickly

A cataract is the gradual opacification of the crystalline lens of the eye. According to Dr. Nalin Tolia, M.D., F.A.C.S., with Tolia Eye Clinic, the common symptoms of cataract include some of the following:

1. Light sensitivity and   glare
2. Blurry vision
3. Difficulty recognizing   people
4. Difficulty driving — more  at night
5. Feeling that glasses are   dirty, but cleaning them   doesn’t help
6. Colors appear dull

Dr. Tolia suggests an eye examination if you have any of these symptoms. And if cataracts are interfering with your lifestyle, cataract surgery is a good option.

Baby boomers, the vanguard generation, are fast entering the age when most cataract surgeries are performed. In the past, treatment might have included wearing thick cataract glasses or contact lenses, which distorted the appearance of the eye.

All that has changed, thanks to modern surgical techniques.

“Those who have been putting off cataract surgery need to be aware that cataract surgery these days is an outpatient procedure that clears your vision and allows you to return to your activities in a very short period of time,” Dr. Tolia says.

The newest generation of intraocular lenses, accommodating lenses, represents a breakthrough in lens replacement during cataract surgery.

“The new premium lens bends with your eye muscles to accommodate the range of your vision,” Dr. Tolia says. “They give good vision for all distances — far, intermediate and near. That’s why we call them Lifestyle lenses.”

The new procedure requires more explanation, more understanding, more tests and a little patience on the part of both the ophthalmologist and the patient.

Most people are good candidates for premium intraocular lens surgery. If you have a cataract in only one eye, the surgery may not work well. It is best if surgery on both eyes takes place within a short period of time.

“The selection of a candidate is an important decision to be made jointly between the ophthalmologist and the patient,” Dr. Tolia concludes.

At one time Medicare limited cataract patients to simple lens replacement, without allowing them to pay anything extra for any other expenses. That has changed, Dr. Tolia says, letting more people in their 60s and beyond benefit from premium lenses. This gives some family members the opportunity to give “the gift of sight” to their elders. Tolia Eye Clinic offers terms and financing options that you can discuss with Carolyn.

Dr. Tolia received his Master of Surgery of Ophthalmology at the University of Bombay. In 1974, he moved to Odessa where he trained with Dr. John H. Sheets, a pioneer in cataract surgery with lens implants. In 1986, Dr. Tolia opened Tolia Eye Clinic. He is certified by the American Board of Ophthalmology, and is a Fellow of the American Academy of Ophthalmology, the College of Physicians and Surgeons, the American College of Surgeons and the International College of Surgeons.

Tolia Eye Clinic is located at One Professional Plaza, 6005 Eastridge Rd., Ste. 100, Odessa. Call (432) 362-2020 to make an appointment and check to see whether cataracts are affecting your lifestyle.