Cataract Surgery
Have you noticed problems with your eyes like dull colors or blurred, impaired vision? You may have cataracts.
Galler Eyecare Associates uses state-of-the-art cataract surgery equipment and the latest intraocular lenses (IOLs) to restore patients' vision.
Dr. Ezra L. Galler is a board-certified ophthalmologist offering safe and effective cataract surgery in Providence, RI. To learn more about seeing the world clearly once again, request a consultation.
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract is the clouding of the naturally clear lens of the eye. This cloudiness is caused by proteins within the eye clumping together. When the lens becomes cloudy, it reduces the amount of light received by the retina.
Cataracts often develop slowly, gradually diminishing a person's vision quality over time. A person can have a cataract in both eyes or just one eye.
During cataract surgery, an eye doctor carefully removes the clouded lens from the eye using minuscule instruments. The natural lens is then replaced with an artificial lens implant known as an IOL. Once in place, the IOL will fulfill the natural lens's function and allow you to focus clearly.
Our Providence, RI, ophthalmology office offers both traditional and laser cataract surgery to accommodate the widest range of patient needs. Dr. Ezra Galler can determine which method will be best for you during your consultation.
What Causes Cataracts?
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Cataracts are typically caused by long-term exposure to the UV rays of the sun. Cataracts can also develop as a result of eye injuries, complications from eye surgery, and the natural aging process. In very rare cases, a baby could be born with cataracts (congenital cataracts).
Cataract Symptoms and Warning Signs
The most common symptoms of cataracts include:
- Milky area in the pupil or iris
- Dim or blurry vision
- Double vision
- Increased light sensitivity
- Diminished night vision
- Halos around lights
- Fading color vision
- Colors appearing more yellow
- More light needed when reading
- Frequent eye prescription changes
Since cataracts often develop over time, symptoms could be difficult to notice. Regular eye exams are among the best preventative measures.
If you notice any of these changes in your vision or it's been a while since you've had your eyes checked, be sure to visit Galler Eye Associates in Providence, RI, for an eye exam.
Did You Know?
By age of 80, roughly half of all Americans will have experienced cataracts.
Common Risk Factors
For Cataracts
- Advanced age
- Past eye injury
- Past eye surgery
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Diabetes
- Smoking
- Steroid use
- Heavy alcohol consumption
- Obesity
Are You Experiencing Cataract Symptoms?
Contact Galler Eyecare Associates
Cataracts are common but they are treatable. If you have noticed changes in your vision quality, it's important that you schedule an appointment at Galler Eye Associates. During your comprehensive vision exam, Dr. Ezra L. Galler can determine the ideal treatment for your cataracts.
Dr. Galler is a board-certified ophthalmologist who's been in practice since 1988. He's committed to improving the vision, ocular health, and wellness of patients all over Rhode Island by providing routine eye exams and state-of-the-art ophthalmology services.
To discuss your cataract symptoms and concerns with a skilled eye doctor, contact Galler Eyecare Associates today. You can also reach our office in Providence, RI, by calling:
(401) 728-1400
Prioritizing Your Vision, Health, and Comfort at Every Visit
"His staff made me feel so comfortable and calm at both my consultation, surgery, and post-op. My results so far have been amazing and I’m so thankful for this team." Paige Elizabeth
Do I Need to Get My Cataracts Removed?
Not necessarily. Cataract surgery is recommended when the clouded lens severely impacts your eyesight, your ability to complete normal everyday tasks, and your overall quality of life. If your cataracts do not require surgery at the moment, you may be asked to wear sunglasses to slow down the progression of your condition.
We can also recommend assistive devices for daily activities. Periodic vision exams can be scheduled at our Providence, RI, office to monitor the development of your cataracts, the quality of your vision, and the health of your eyes. If you decide to move forward with surgery, we will be ready to assist.
Diagnosing Cataracts
During an eye exam, Dr. Galler will run a number of tests to assess your current vision as well as the structures of your eyes. This may include a traditional visual acuity test, a slit-lap examination, and even a retinal exam.
In addition to the vision tests we've noted, Dr. Galler will take time to speak with you about your symptoms and cataract risk factors. He'll want to know how cataracts have affected your quality of life.
Developing a Treatment Plan
Following your comprehensive eye exam, Dr. Galler will review your treatment options. If surgery isn't required yet, he can go over preventative care, lifestyle changes, and other strategies to mitigate vision loss.
If you require cataract surgery, Dr. Galler can review the procedure in detail, answering any questions you may have.
What Are Intraocular Lenses? Understanding IOLs
An intraocular lens (IOL) is an artificial lens that replaces the natural lens of the eye. During cataract surgery, the clouded lens is removed and replaced with an IOL in order to restore the patient's vision. IOLs are not noticeable—you will not be able to see or feel any difference except vision improvement.
Our Providence, RI, office can use different kinds of IOLs depending on your needs and vision goals. Dr. Galler can discuss this with you while outlining a treatment plan. Patients who are unable to receive an intraocular lens can discuss glasses and other corrective eyewear at this time.
Decades of Excellence in Eye Care
"I have been going to Dr. Galler for 20 years. The team is wonderful. I’ve had LASIK surgery and cataracts removed. Nothing but great things to say." Pamela F.
Traditional and Laser
Cataract Surgery
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Galler Eyecare Associates offers both traditional cataract surgery and laser cataract surgery. Both procedures are safe and effective ways to remove cataracts and restore vision. Dr. Galler can go over the general pros and cons of each type of surgery during your consultation at his office in Providence, RI.
The Cataract Surgery Procedure
We perform cataract surgery at an off-site medical facility in the Providence area. Here is a general overview of what patients can expect during the surgical procedure.
The cataract removal procedure takes around 20-30 minutes to complete.
Restore Your Vision
With a Highly Successful Procedure
Your eyes are your window to the world, so it's natural to feel apprehensive about cataract surgery. We want you to know that if you're a good candidate, you will be receiving a safe and highly successful procedure—more than 6 million Americans have undergone cataract surgery, studies show approximately 95% of patients enjoy improved vision, and complications are rare.
What's more, our ophthalmologist, Dr. Ezra Galler, holds operating privileges at leading hospitals in and around Providence, RI. By receiving care from a board-certified eye doctor in excellent facilities, you can trust that your vision is in the best hands.
We want you to feel comfortable and confident in the course of your eye care, so please reach out to our Providence team with questions at any time. If you're ready to speak with Dr. Galler about what cataract surgery can do for you, request a consultation by calling:
(401) 728-1400
Wonderful Reviews For Our Providence, RI, Practice
Jennifer Bethany
2023
The actual surgery was quick and Dr Galler talked me through the whole time, which helped calm me. My recovery was fast and I am very happy I got it done.
View On Google
Melissa Paravati
2023
I traveled to Rhode Island from out of state just to get this procedure done with Dr. Galler because I had heard he is the best. I couldn’t agree more now that I’ve had my procedure!
View On GoogleCataract Surgery Is Usually Performed
One Eye at a Time
Even if a patient has cataracts in both eyes, cataract surgery is typically performed on one eye at a time. The procedure is safe and common, but eye surgeons want to err on the side of caution regarding a person's vision.
The second cataract surgery is scheduled not long after you have fully recovered from the initial cataract removal.
Cataract Surgery Complications
Since cataract surgery is relatively routine, complications from surgery are rare. However, it's important that patients know the early warning signs of a post-op complication. If you experience excessive discomfort, red eye, flashes, or floaters while recovering, call our practice right away.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cataract Surgery
Does insurance cover cataract surgery?
Yes, cataract surgery and standard monofocal lenses are typically covered by insurance. Premium artificial lenses, including toric and multifocal varieties, are not often covered. Our Providence practice accepts Medicare, Medicaid, and most private insurances. We can help you verify your coverage for cataract surgery and IOLs ahead of time. We also accept financing options, including CareCredit®, to help keep out-of-pocket costs affordable.
Do I really need IOLs after my cataracts are removed?
Yes, almost every cataract surgery patient needs IOLs to see clearly unless they want to rely on very strong prescription glasses or contacts for life. With your eyes' natural lenses no longer in place, you won't be able to focus, and life will appear blurry. Your IOLs will take over the function of your natural lenses to work in tandem with your retinas and corneas and provide sharp vision. Keep in mind that your IOLs are permanent once in place. Once healed, the only difference you will notice is unclouded vision.
I have cataracts and glaucoma. What are my options?
Patients who have both cataracts and glaucoma are in good hands at Galler Eyecare Associates. Dr. Galler has decades of experience diagnosing and helping patients manage both conditions. He offers a number of minimally invasive treatments for glaucoma that can be performed in a combined procedure with cataract surgery. If you'd like to address multiple eye issues at once, speak with our doctor about a custom treatment plan.
