Frequently Asked Questions About Eye Care
At Siedlecki Cataract & Vision Care, we understand that patients often have questions about their eye health and the procedures we offer. Below are answers to some of the most common questions we receive from patients in Buffalo, Amherst, Williamsville, and throughout Western New York.
Cataract Surgery
What are cataracts?
are a clouding of the natural lens in your eye, causing vision to become blurry or dim. They are a normal part of aging and typically develop gradually over time, though they can also result from injury, certain medications, or medical conditions.
When might I need cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is recommended when cataracts interfere with your daily activities, such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces. If your vision cannot be adequately corrected with glasses or contacts, surgery may be the best option to restore clear sight.
What should I expect from the cataract surgery procedure?
Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure that typically takes 15-20 minutes. Your surgeon will remove the clouded natural lens and replace it with a clear artificial lens implant. The procedure is performed under local anesthesia, and most patients experience minimal discomfort.
How should I prepare for cataract surgery?
Before surgery, you'll receive detailed pre-operative instructions, including when to stop eating and drinking, which medications to continue or discontinue, and how to use prescribed eye drops. Arrange for transportation, as you won't be able to drive immediately after the procedure.
What does recovery time look like for cataract surgery?
Most patients notice improved vision within a few days, with full recovery typically occurring within 4-6 weeks. You'll need to use prescribed eye drops, avoid strenuous activities initially, and attend follow-up appointments to monitor your healing progress.
Refractive Surgery
What is refractive surgery?
Refractive surgery corrects vision problems by reshaping the cornea or replacing the eye's natural lens. These procedures can reduce or eliminate dependence on glasses or contact lenses for conditions like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism.
When might I need refractive surgery?
You may be a candidate for refractive surgery if you have stable vision, are over 18 years old, and want to reduce dependence on corrective lenses. A comprehensive evaluation will determine if you're a suitable candidate based on your eye health and vision needs.
What should I expect from the refractive surgery procedure?
The specific procedure depends on your individual needs, but most refractive surgeries are outpatient procedures performed with advanced laser technology. Your surgeon will discuss the details of your specific procedure, including expected outcomes and recovery time.
Oculoplastic Surgery
What is oculoplastic surgery?
Oculoplastic surgery involves procedures around the eyes, eyelids, and surrounding facial structures. This includes both functional procedures to improve vision and cosmetic procedures to enhance appearance, such as blepharoplasty eyelid surgery.
What are the signs that I might need oculoplastic surgery?
You may benefit from oculoplastic surgery if you have drooping eyelids that obstruct vision, excess eyelid skin, or other structural issues affecting eye function or appearance. A consultation will help determine if surgery is appropriate for your specific concerns.
General Eye Health
How should I manage dry eyes?
Dry eye management may include artificial tears, prescription eye drops, lifestyle modifications, or in-office treatments. Our dry eye doctors can evaluate your specific condition and recommend the most effective treatment plan for your symptoms.
What might be causing my blurred vision?
Blurred vision can result from many different causes, including refractive errors, cataracts, dry eyes, diabetic retinopathy, or other eye conditions. A comprehensive eye examination is necessary to determine the underlying cause and appropriate treatment.
How can diabetes affect my eyes?
Diabetes can cause diabetic retinopathy, which damages blood vessels in the retina and can lead to vision loss if untreated. Regular eye examinations are crucial for early detection and management of diabetic eye complications.
How can I manage diabetic macular retinal edema?
Treatment for diabetic macular edema may include intravitreal injections, laser therapy, or other specialized treatments. Our experienced team provides comprehensive care for diabetic eye conditions to help preserve your vision.
When should I get in touch with your office?
Contact our office immediately if you experience sudden vision changes, severe eye pain, flashing lights, new floaters, or any concerning eye symptoms. Regular eye examinations are also important for maintaining optimal eye health and catching problems early.
Schedule Your Eye Care Consultation Today
If you have additional questions about your eye health or any of our services, don't hesitate to contact Siedlecki Cataract & Vision Care. Our experienced team is here to provide personalized care for patients throughout Buffalo, Amherst, Williamsville, and Western New York.
Call us today to schedule your comprehensive eye examination and take the first step toward clearer, healthier vision.