Every June, we observe Cataract Awareness Month to spotlight cataracts, one of the leading causes of vision impairment—and one of the most successful surgeries performed today. At ilumin Eye Care Center in Omaha, NE, our renowned surgeons Brandon Menke, MD and Peter Simone, MD, PhD, help patients see clearly again using the latest cataract removal techniques and advanced intraocular lenses (IOLs). Here’s what you need to know about cataracts, why they form, and how we treat them.
What Is a Cataract?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural crystalline lens, which sits behind the iris and helps focus light onto the retina. As proteins in the lens break down over time, they clump together and create a veil-like opacity. Early on, you may notice:
- Blurred or dim vision
- Increased glare around headlights or in bright sunlight
- Faded or yellowed colors
- Frequent changes in your eyeglass prescription
If left untreated, cataracts can progress to significant vision loss.
Why and When Do Cataracts Form?
- Age-Related Changes: Most cataracts develop after age 60 as lens proteins naturally deteriorate.
- UV Exposure: Years of unprotected sunlight accelerate protein damage.
- Medical Factors: Diabetes, certain medications (like steroids), and previous eye injuries can prompt earlier onset.
- Genetics & Lifestyle: Family history, smoking, and nutritional deficiencies also play roles.
Because cataracts advance slowly, regular comprehensive eye exams are crucial—catching clouding early means smoother surgery and faster visual recovery.
Treating Cataracts at ilumin Eye Care Center
When cataracts begin to limit your daily activities—reading, driving, or even watching TV—surgical removal is the only way to restore clarity. Here’s our streamlined, patient-focused process:
- Thorough Evaluation
Our EyeAnalysis Exam captures detailed measurements of your eye’s shape, corneal curvature, and visual needs. Dr. Menke or Dr. Simone will review your health history and lifestyle goals to recommend the optimal lens choice. - Minimally Invasive Laser Refractive Cataract Surgery
We use a tiny ultrasonic probe to break up and gently remove the cloudy lens through a micro-incision smaller than a grain of rice. This modern technique promotes rapid healing and minimal discomfort. - Premium Intraocular Lens (IOL) Implantation
Your natural lens is exchanged for an IOL that restores vision—but the benefits don’t stop there.
Advanced IOL Options for Personalized Vision
Gone are the days when a monofocal lens was your only choice. Today’s premium IOLs let you see clearly at multiple distances and correct for astigmatism:
- Toric IOLs
Correct corneal astigmatism, giving you sharper distance vision without additional glasses. - Multifocal IOLs
Split light into near and distance focal points, reducing or eliminating dependence on reading glasses. - Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs
Deliver a continuous range of vision—from distance to intermediate tasks like computer work—while minimizing glare. - Light-Adjustable Lenses
The only IOLs you can fine-tune after surgery: UV light treatments allow Dr. Menke or Dr. Simone to achieve your perfect prescription during your post-op visits.
“Our goal is to match each patient with an IOL that aligns exactly with their daily life and visual priorities,” says Dr. Simone. “Whether you’re gardening, golfing, or spending time with grandkids, we want you to enjoy every moment in focus.”
Celebrate Cataract Awareness Month: Take Action Today
Don’t let cataracts dim your world. Rediscover the vibrant colors, crisp details, and confident independence that come with clear vision.
📞 Call us at (402) 933-6600
📍 Schedule online at ilumineyes.com
Clear vision is just a consultation away—celebrate Cataract Awareness Month by taking the first step toward seeing life in brilliant clarity.
