Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What Is a Cataract?

A cataract is a progressive clouding of the eye’s natural lens that interferes with light passing through to the retina. Cataract sufferers usually describe the condition as being similar to looking through a waterfall or a piece of wax paper, with gradual blurring or dimming of vision.

Reading may become more difficult and driving a car can actually become dangerous. Cataract sufferers may also be troubled by a bothersome glare, halos around lights, or even double vision. As the cataract becomes worse, frequent changes in prescriptions for eye glasses may become necessary.

Once they form, there is only one way to achieve clear vision again, and that is to physically remove the cataract from the eye.

Cataracts are part of the natural aging process. Cataracts typically begin developing between the ages of 40 – 50. More than 50% of people over the age of 60, and quite a few younger than that, suffer from cataracts. In fact, cataracts are so common it is said that everyone will develop a cataract if they live long enough.

Everyone is at risk for cataracts. Cataracts are a condition that involves the clouding of the outer lens of the eye. Factors that increase your risk of cataracts include: extended exposure to UV rays, heredity, diabetes, drinking excessive amounts of alcohol, medications, trauma and age.

Cataracts generally affect people over the age of 60, and in some cases, quite a few younger will suffer from cataracts. Cataracts are so common it has been said that everyone will develop a cataract if they live long enough.

A cataract starts out very tiny, but as it grows you may notice that your vision becomes blurry, increased sensitivity to bright light, impaired depth perception, object edges may appear to fade into one another, colors may not appear as bright as they should be, poor night vision or frequent changes in your eye glass prescriptions or contact lenses.

Cataracts can only be diagnosed by an eye care specialist.

Currently, there is no medical treatment to reverse or prevent the development of cataracts. Once they form, there is only one way to achieve clear vision again, and that is to physically remove the cataract from the eye.

Cataract surgery is the most frequently performed surgery in the United States, with millions of surgeries done each year.

In your parent’s or grandparent’s day, cataract surgery was considered risky, required a lengthy hospital stay and was usually postponed for as long as possible. Today, cataract surgery is performed on an outpatient basis and takes only a few minutes. Patients can then go home and rest in comfort and avoid the inconvenience and expense of staying in a hospital.

Snead Eye Group has a variety of options for your IOL (intraocular lens).

What Lifestyle Lens Options Are Available?

For the individual who desires the least amount of dependency on glasses AND the very best vision possible, at all ranges near through distance, for everything you do. Multifocal IOLs are the best of the best and are desired by busy people on the go! This package includes an advanced multifocal lens and a limbal relaxing incision, if necessary

Benefits:

  • Can eliminate the _need for glasses for most activities.
  • Multifocal IOLs may also be available that have the ability to correct astigmatism.
  • Can be performed by LenSx®.

For the individual who desires better distance vision and correction of astigmatism. Toric IOLs offer improved night vision and less dependence on glasses while driving. The ideal patients include those bothered by astigmatism, people who utilize a computer for numerous tasks, and people who enjoy outdoor activities such as fishing, boating and golfing. This package includes:

High Definition Aspheric lens or Toric lens, and limbal relaxing incision, if necessary.

Benefits:

  • Ideal for patients who want clear-distance vision without glasses.
  • It can be performed by LenSx®.

For the individual that desires good vision but doesn’t mind wearing glasses. This package includes a basic monofocal lens, usually correcting distance vision. However, if you have astigmatism you will need glasses for all ranges of vision.

Benefits:

  • Costs are typically covered by Medicare and other insurance.

The final decision on which lens package is best for you will be determined by you and your surgeon once all testing and a full cataract evaluation are completed.

Become Our Next Success Story

At Snead Eye Group, we’re dedicated to being your trusted eye care partner. Discover what REAL patients have to say about their experience with the Snead Eye Group and how we’ve made a difference in their lives.

I continue to be impressed by Snead Eye Group! My initial visit was an emergency and the staff scheduled me immediately. The second visit was a re-check, and it was quick and efficient. My third visit was an eye exam. The technician modified her exam to meet the needs of my sensitive eyes. This is a group of hardworking and caring individuals!

Cindy Syoen

This was the best experience I have ever had at an eye appointment! The staff is super caring and listens. The doctor was great and thorough. The selection of frames was great and the consultant, Heather, was knowledgeable and not pushy. I would highly recommend!

Crystal Hogan

From my first appointment, Snead Eye Group had a very pleasant office and was so professional! I was worried because my doctors were all from Connecticut, and they were all excellent. But I hit the jackpot with the Snead Eye Group. They are extremely knowledgeable and up to date on their education to be beyond current! They get 10 stars from my husband and myself!

Marianne Barnes

Office Locations & Hours

Snead Eye Group has many convenient locations across Southwest Florida. Our expertly equipped eye care and surgical centers proudly serve Fort Myers, Naples, Cape Coral, Bonita Springs, Marco Island and the surrounding areas. Discover your nearest clinic now.

Expertly Equipped

Our $1 million imaging system provides detection clarity, ensuring vision problems are identified and treated at the earliest stages.

Perfectly Precise

With the expertise of our eye doctors, we provide accurate, targeted treatment to preserve and enhance your vision.

Clearly Caring

It’s our mission to offer compassionate, personalized care. Your eye health is at the heart of everything we do.

Request Your Appointment

Ready to take the next step toward better vision? The eye doctors at Snead Eye Group are ready to help you now.