Cataracts Explained: The Role of Your Eye's Lens in Clear Sight

For the eye to see clearly, it has to be in focus for the specific distance being viewed. One lens power can only focus at one distance. So, because the eye actually forms a lens with a specific power, it has to have a "focus changing" system to be able to focus at different distances. That's where the crystalline lens comes in.

In early life, this lens is very flexible and can be adjusted to change shape so as to focus at different distances. Hence, in normal sighted eyes, they can focus between far and near instantly, up until about 40 years of age. Thereafter, focusing up close becomes more difficult.

Understanding Cataracts: What Changes in Your Eye

Not only does the crystalline lens become inelastic through life, but it also changes colour inside with time. It can also develop opacities in it. These opacities and discolorations are referred to as cataracts. Many eyes develop cataracts through life but it is only when the cataracts start affecting the vision that attention is given to them (in most cases).

Cataract Surgery: Past vs. Present

Drawings inside ancient pyramids show cataract "surgery" being performed. That must have been horrendous. However, today, with anaesthesia and sophisticated technology, cataract surgery has become a routine surgical procedure which is highly successful and generally not painful. Many cataracts lead to blindness if not attended to. After cataract surgery, the person is given a "new pair of seeing eyes," so to speak.

Hollander Optometrists: Your Partner in Eye Health

We routinely look for cataract formation and are able to successfully guide our patients through this interim period as the need arises. We have a close working relationship with excellent Ophthalmic Surgeons, ensuring that your eyes are cared for maximally

The Vital Role of Regular Eye Exams

This is just another reason to not be lax in looking after your eyes. If you are not totally dependent on the average two-year medical aid system, you should have your eyes examined yearly. Cataracts, as well as numerous other potentially damaging conditions can be present in the eyes without you knowing it.

Hollander Optometrists are Clinical Optometrists. Let us look after your precious eyes.

"I opened two presents this morning.... they were my eyes!"

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Kuilsriver: 021 906 1473 

Eersteriver: 021 904 8900