Last updated 4 days ago
Many individuals with corneas and other eye conditions have surgery to remove the eye’s natural lens. In order for the eyes to focus and work properly after surgery, ophthalmologists implant an innovative artificial lens. Learn more about intraocular lenses (IOLs) in this eye care overview:
Why Are Lenses Necessary?
When the natural lens of the eye becomes clouded, light can no longer remain sharply focused. When the lens is removed, light cannot be focused at all. An artificial lens mimics the behavior of a natural lens, without the cataracts.
How Does An Intraocular Lens Work?
IOLs are permanent replacements for the eye’s natural lens. Like contacts and eyeglass prescriptions, IOLs come in a range of various focusing powers. Your eye doctor measures the power needed in your lens implant, as well as eye length and cornea curvature. Unlike the hard plastic IOLs of the past, modern artificial lenses are made of silicone or other acrylic materials. Recent technology also allows for multifocal IOLs that allow patients to see more clearly at varying distances than monofocal lenses.
What Is The Intraocular Lens Implantation?
After removing the natural lens during cataract surgery, ophthalmologists create a small incision in the eye around 3 millimeters long. The IOL is then folded and inserted through the incision to be placed at the center of the pupil. While it is usually placed behind the iris where the natural lens was originally located, some patients may require the IOL to be placed in front of the iris. Intraocular lens implantation is the most frequently performed eye surgery, with very high success rates and percent results. After a few weeks of recovery, patients benefit from vastly improved vision.
Contact the Ophthalmic Consultants of Chicago to learn more about cataract surgery and intraocular lenses. From LASIK eye surgery to dry eye treatments, we are proud to offer the latest advances in eye procedures. Call us at (847) 388-0309 and visit us online to learn more about our practice.
Last updated 11 days ago
Many patients with dry eyes don't actually realize they have dry eyes. This is because the symptoms of dry eyes often include itching, burning, Blepharitis and even watering.
There can be several reasons for dry eyes, but the quality of tears play a huge role in the dryness of the eyes. Watch this video to learn more about the causes and symptoms of dry eyes.
Dr. Mack is an expert in dry eye treatment and diagnosis in the Schaumburg, IL area. If you believe you may be experiencing some of these dry eye symptoms, schedule an appointment with an ophthalmologist at the Ophthalmic Consultants of Chicago. Treatment varies for dry eyes; call us at (847) 388-0309 to discuss developing a unique treatment plan. We offer a wide variety of surgical and non-surgical eye procedures including Lasik eye surgery and dry eye treatments.
Last updated 19 days ago
Cataracts are a common condition which affect millions of people, causes the lenses of their eyes to thicken and become cloudy. While cataracts can initially be treated with new prescriptions and magnifying lenses, surgery is often required as the cataracts worsen. Read through these warning signs which indicate that you need cataract surgery:
Disruption of Everyday Activities
One of the most common reasons that people undergo cataract surgery is because their condition is interfering with their everyday activities. When you can no longer see well enough to perform chores and regular activities, you should seriously consider cataract surgery. Many individuals find it difficult to read, watch television, or drive. Not only do cataracts cause quality of life issues, they also raise safety concerns.
Blurred & Irregular Vision
Cataract surgery is the only treatment to eliminate the serious symptoms of cataracts. If you find yourself constantly squinting in low light or unable to see colors clearly, then you might want to consider surgery. Other signs include haloes and glares around objects, frequent blinking to focus the eyes, and sensitivity to bright lights.
Rapid Vision Changes
Cataracts often cause rapid vision changes that require frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions. This is because the eye is more opaque, which prevents your eyes from focusing on a consistent basis. Cataract surgery can correct this issue and keep you at a relatively stable eyeglass prescription.
Prevents Treatment
Even if your vision isn’t compromised, you may need to remove the cataracts if your doctor is no longer able to examine or treat other eye conditions. Eye complications such as age-related macular degeneration or glaucoma may be more difficult to treat if a patient has cataracts as well.
If you feel that your cataracts are becoming unmanageable and disrupting your life, then discuss your cataract surgery options with the Ophthalmic Consultants of Chicago. As expert ophthalmologists, we provide numerous surgical and non-surgical solutions including red eye and dry eye treatments, LASIK eye surgery, and cataract surgery. Schedule your appointment today by calling us at (847) 388-0309 today!
Last updated 27 days ago
Maintaining healthy eyes is largely accomplished through patient education, which is a top priority of the caring physicians at Ophthalmic Consultants of Chicago. We are a comprehensive eye care clinic equipped to meet all of your vision needs. Call us at (847) 388-0309 or visit our website to learn more about our practice.
Last updated 1 month ago
The skin is home to many bacteria, which are necessary to maintain proper health. However, these bacteria can become overgrown in certain areas and cause irritation of the skin. One such condition is blepharitis, or inflammation of the eyelash follicles. The condition is characterized by uncomfortable swelling, redness, crustiness, or burning of the eyelids as well as a feeling of dryness when blinking. It is easily diagnosed by your eye doctor, and typically treated with an at-home care routine recommended by the physician. Here are some steps that will likely be included in your blepharitis treatment plan:
- Careful cleansing: A mild soap or baby shampoo may be used to delicately clean the skin of the eyelids. Regular cleansing will help limit the growth of bacteria and relieve the itchiness or burning associated with blepharitis.
- Limited use of makeup: Mascara and eye shadow can make it difficult to keep the skin clean, so you may have to temporarily discontinue their use. Once the condition is under control, you should switch to makeup that is specifically designed for sensitive skin and be sure to remove it at the end of each day.
- Apply warm compresses: A clean towel dampened with warm water can soothe the eyes while loosening crusty residue that can cause further irritation. A gentle massage of the eyelids using clean hands may also be necessary to remove buildup around the affected area. Check out our video on how to apply warm compresses for blepharitis.
- Discontinue contact use: Wearing contacts may cause more discomfort to the eyes, so you may be advised to switch to eyeglasses for a temporary period.
The Ophthalmic Consultants of Chicago can help you manage your blepharitis through education and medication. Schedule a consultation for your eyes today by calling (847) 388-0309 or visiting our website.
