Ask The Doctor
T. Reginald Williams, MD

The physicians of Graystone Eye are specialists in eye surgery and diseases. They live and work in our community to provide comprehensive services for area residents.

Q. Can Diabetics Have Cataract Surgery?

A. Diabetic Retinopathy, if present, should be treated before having cataract surgery. High blood sugar can cause blood vessels to swell and leak. Laser surgery is sometimes necessary for severe retinopathy. Diet, exercise, and treating high blood sugar and high blood pressure are very important in managing diabetes, and may help prevent the development or progression of diabetic retinopathy.

Ask The Doctor
John G. Tye, MD

Q. Do my cataracts have to be "ripe" to have surgery?

A. In the "old days," a ripe cataract was one so dense that the patient was blind and the pupil would appear white. The concept of "ripe" cataracts no longer applies due to the advanced surgical technique of small incision, sutureless cataract removal available at Graystone Eye. An individual should consider cataract surgery when their vision and quality of life are affected. There is no need to wait for the advanced stage of a "ripe" cataract.

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Ask The Doctor
James W. Harris, Jr, MD

Q. I use eye drops daily for glaucoma. Now I need cataract surgery. What are my options?

A. One option is to have a glaucoma procedure (called trabeculectomy) at the same time as your cataract surgery. The trabeculectomy often will allow you to reduce or eliminate the need for glaucoma medications. A combined glaucoma/cataract procedure should be considered if you use more than one drop for your glaucoma.

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Ask The Doctor
Ann K. Joslyn, MD

Q. How does a cataract develop?

A. A cataract develops due to clouding of the eye's natural lens. the lens consists mostly of protein and water. When the protein clumps up, it clouds the lens and reduces the light that reaches the retina. Most cataracts are due to the aging process, however other risk factors include prolonged exposure to steroids and certain diseases such as diabetes.

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Ask The Doctor
Ralph E. Oursler, III, MD

Q. Can astigmatism be corrected during cataract surgery?

A. Astigmatism can be addressed several ways during cataract surgery. One approach is to place several incisions to make the cornea's curvature more spherical. This will address small amounts of astigmatism but is not as accurate as laser vision correction. Another approach is to use an implantable toric lens. Astigmatism correction is an additional service and not covered by medical insurance.

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