Cataracts
Is your vision foggy or blurry? Do colors appear dull and lackluster? Do your eyes hurt when you go out in the sun?
You may have cataracts. Cataracts cloud your eye's naturally clear lens, making the world around you appear hazy.
The doctors at Hines Sight in Denver, CO, perform cataract surgery to remove the cloudiness and restore your vision.
What Is a Cataract? A Clouded Lens
A cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens, which lies behind the iris. The crystalline lens is responsible for focusing light rays on the retina, which is the part of the eye that senses light and transmits these images to the brain. When the lens becomes cloudy, light rays cannot focus properly on the retina, and your vision becomes blurry.
The Causes of a Cataract
Age
Developing cataracts is part of the normal aging process for many people. More than half of Americans have had a cataract by age 80.
Trauma to the Eye
An accident or an injury to the eye can cause a cataract to form.
Environment
Some environmental factors, like toxic chemicals, have been linked to cataract development. Certain medications, such as corticosteroids and statins, may contribute to cataracts as well.
Light
Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet light or ultraviolet radiation can cause a cataract to form over time.
Heredity
You have a higher chance of developing cataracts if you have a family history of the condition.
Disease
Cataracts can also form as a result of eye disease or as a result of medical conditions, such as diabetes.
How Do I Know If I Have a Cataract? Common Signs and Symptoms
Many people describe the sensation of cataracts as looking through a foggy car window or a piece of wax paper. Some people also complain of double vision. Besides hampering your overall vision, a cataract can lead to the following symptoms:
Can Cataracts Go Away on Their Own?
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Unfortunately, the answer is no. Once a cataract forms, it is there to stay. It's possible to slow the progression of your symptoms with certain lifestyle changes, like maintaining a healthy weight and diet, quitting smoking, and protecting your eyes from sun exposure, but they will still get worse with time. Cataract surgery is the only method to eliminate a cataract entirely.
Cataract Surgery Can Help You Reclaim Your Vision
Wonder how cataracts are removed? Here you can see how the clouded lens of the eye is carefully extracted during cataract surgery. Following cataract removal, an intraocular lens is placed within the eye to restore vision. This routine surgical procedure can prevent blindness.
Ask About Cataract Surgery From Trusted Denver Ophthalmologists
Although cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed eye surgeries today, it is a serious procedure that requires an experienced eye surgeon with strong knowledge of lens implantation. The doctors at Hines Sight have provided Colorado patients with exceptional care for decades. Our dedicated team offers top-quality treatments that provide effective results and a rapid recovery.
If you are struggling with symptoms of cataracts, don't hesitate. Contact our Denver, CO, practice to request your eye consultation.
Why Denver, CO, Chooses Us For Their Eye Care
Sara Miller
Denver, CO
2022
Dr. Coco and all of his staff, especially Bernadette, went above and beyond to make me feel welcome and to educate me on my options and my cataract surgery. Although I had had my other eye done somewhere else and am a healthcare provider, there was a lot I was not told the last time and they spent a lot of time educating me on what was going to happen and what to expect throughout the whole process. I cannot say enough good things about Hines Sight. I highly recommend this team for any of your eye care needs.
View on GoogleMonique Lapetina
Denver, CO
2023
I have been a patient of Dr. Burcham’s for fifteen years. Dr. Burcham was out of town and I was happy to meet another Dr. I met Dr. Coco, was very thorough, and answered all of my questions. I want to say, all the team was so very kind and personable. Thank you
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Your Cataract Surgery Options
At Hines Sight in Denver
Our eyecare practice in Denver, CO, offers patients two types of cataract surgery: ultrasound (the traditional version) and laser, a newer surgical method. Both surgeries involve breaking up and removing your natural, clouded lens and replacing it with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens implant (IOL). However, the methods differ.
Ultrasound Cataract Surgery
This conventional method of cataract surgery has been practiced for decades. It uses ultrasound energy to break up your clouded lens. The fragments of the lens are then gently removed. This type of cataract surgery requires an experienced surgeon with a steady hand, as the entire process is done manually. While it may sound intimidating, this is a safe surgery that has been performed millions of times.
Laser Cataract Surgery
A newer form of surgery, this procedure uses the precision of a laser to make the corneal incision and break apart the lens. Since the laser is programmed on a computer by the surgeon, its incisions are incredibly precise. The laser is highly accurate and efficient. With minimal human intervention, this form of surgery has few risks and is usually the preferred option for most patients.
Do I Have to Get an IOL During Cataract Surgery?
Yes. An IOL acts as a replacement for your natural lens. In order to retain your vision, you will need to have an IOL placed during cataract surgery after your compromised natural lens is removed. Because the eye's lens focuses light onto the retina, everything you see will be out of focus without it, leaving you functionally blind. An IOL is the only option for restoring your ability to focus light and see clearly after lens removal.
Getting an artificial eye lens may sound a bit intimidating, but rest assured that IOLs are a modern, safe, and incredibly common treatment option. Almost four million Americans undergo cataract surgery every year. Once your IOL is in place, you won't be able to feel a difference at all, and the visual differences are invaluable.
Keep in mind that IOL placement happens immediately after cataract removal, so you won't have to spend any additional time with blurry vision or return to our eyecare facility in Denver, CO, for a second procedure.
Types of Intraocular Lenses Offered by Our Denver Practice
IOLs can affect the quality of your vision after cataract surgery in different ways, depending on the type you receive. Our Denver, CO, practice offers four types of IOLs, each with its own unique benefits.
A trifocal lens offers clarity for near, far, and intermediate vision. The PanOptix® Lens is the first and only trifocal lens on the market. PanOptix enhances both the quality and range of your vision after cataract surgery, and may reduce your need for eyeglasses.
A monofocal lens gives you enhanced vision at a singular distance, typically far. Our Denver office uses the TECNICS Eyehance™ monofocal lens. This lens was made to extend your depth of focus when compared to an older version of this monofocal lens.
The Crystalens® IOL was modeled after the human eye and offers vision correction after cataract surgery even if you suffer from presbyopia (farsightedness). This is the only lens on the market that uses the natural function of your eye to focus on objects at any distance. It can reduce or eliminate your need for reading glasses.
The Light Adjustable Lens™ is the first customizable IOL on the market. It's made of a photosensitive material that reacts when exposed to UV light. By utilizing in-office light treatments, you can customize your vision to meet your lifestyle needs following your surgical procedure. Each light treatment only takes a few minutes.
Ready to Start Seeing Clearly? Call Our Denver, CO, Office Today
Whether you need a routine eye exam or a surgical procedure, Hines Sight provides Denver patients with the best in vision care.
Our mission is to maximize the vision and eye health of every patient we encounter. Our Colorado office uses the latest technology to provide the highest quality of care. Hines Sight takes pride in providing state-of-the-art treatments in a relaxing, caring environment. Eye surgery can be a very intimidating thing, which is why our doctors take the time to get to know each patient's goals and needs and are happy to answer any questions about their upcoming surgical procedure.
If you're tired of looking through a cloud, contact our Denver, CO, office today to request your consultation.
(303) 777-3277
"I had a very successful cataract surgery." Gladly Serving the People of Denver
Dan Reed
Denver, CO
2021
Very professional I had a very successful cataract surgery and Lasik mini years before that. Personally I have loved almost never wearing glasses!
View on GoogleJustin Petrafeso (GoBuffs)
Denver, CO
2021
EVERY person working here is friendly and professional. They fixed my issue and put me at ease. As a first time patient, I’m here to stay! I highly recommend them.
View on GoogleWhat to Expect During Laser Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is the only way to address the symptoms caused by cataracts and restore clear vision. Fortunately, surgery is virtually painless and has a quick recovery period.
Day of Procedure
The entire laser surgery should take less than an hour. We'll ensure that your eye is completely numb before beginning treatment.
Received Specialized Care From a Board-Certified Specialist
Dr. Justin Coco is our board-certified ophthalmologist. He is active in eyecare research and is affiliated with a number of prestigious hospitals and institutions around the United States.
Cataract surgery is a delicate procedure that can only be performed by an ophthalmologist. At Hines Sight, your cataract surgery will be performed by a board-certified ophthalmologist. But what does board certification mean?
Dr. Justin Coco earned board certification with the American Osteopathic Board of Ophthalmology and Otolaryngology after passing rigorous written and oral examinations. He maintains his certification by completing continuing education requirements and submitting performance assessments to the Board. Dr. Coco takes his certification seriously. You can trust that his skills and techniques align with the highest standard of eye care.
Dr. Coco carries on our legacy of excellence in surgical eye care started by ophthalmologist William L. Hines, the founder of our practice. To learn more about Dr. Coco, what sets him apart from the rest, and how he can help you improve your vision in a single, virtually painless procedure, please contact Hines Sight today. Give our Denver, CO, office a call at:
A Message From Dr. Justin Coco
“I enjoy working with patients to evaluate, preserve, restore, and optimize their most valued sense of sight. Having worn glasses from an early age, offering patients the ability to experience life independent of glasses and contact lenses is my greatest reward.”
Are There Side Effects To Cataract Surgery?
It is normal to have symptoms of minor discomfort and itching during the first few days after surgery. Serious complications like infections, severe pain, eyelid swelling, and retinal detachment are rare. Your risk of developing more serious symptoms is higher if you have another eye disease or underlying medical condition. The doctors at Hines Sight are experienced and well-trained on how to minimize your risk of developing these severe complications.
Contact Us Today If Your Eyesight Is Getting Worse
If your vision is becoming more like looking through a dirty window, it may be time to check for cataracts. With the proper surgery, we can prevent blindness and improve your sight so you can read, watch TV, grocery shop, and stay on the road.
The risk factors from eye surgery are minimal, especially in the hands of our experienced eye doctors. We can examine your eyes to determine if surgery is the best option to counter the effects of a cataract.
Contact Hines Sight in South Denver online or call:
(308) 777-3277
"Thorough, informative, and relaxed." Why South Denver Comes to Our Doctors
Carol Emrick
Denver, CO
2021
Staff was friendly and efficient, keeping me informed about wait times. It was a pleasant experience where all my questions were answered and Dr Coco was thorough, informative and relaxed.
View on GoogleRick Shecter
Denver, CO
2021
Dr Coco and his staff are truly caring and more importantly, skilled in eye health.
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Cataracts and LASIK
LASIK is a refractive eye surgery used to correct farsightedness, nearsightedness, and astigmatism. LASIK cannot correct a clouded lens. However, if you have not achieved your best possible vision after cataract surgery, LASIK may be performed to enhance the quality of your sight.
Maintaining Your Results After Cataract Surgery
After cataract removal, patients should continue seeing our eye doctors for scheduled check-ups. This provides an opportunity to bring up any questions or concerns about your eyes post-surgery, and for our eye doctors to check on the progress of your recovery.
Health and Wellness Tips for Protecting Your Vision
We also recommend patients:
- Refrain from smoking and using tobacco products
- Eat a nutritious diet with leafy greens and healthy fats
- Continue to wear sunglasses and protect their eyes from bright lights
These precautions don't just protect your eyesight after cataract removal. Following the advice above can also help minimize the risks of developing glaucoma, macular degeneration, and other age-related conditions that affect your sight.
Paying for Cataract Surgery
The team at Hines Sight in South Denver believes comprehensive eye care should be accessible to people who need it. Our doctors and staff will work with patients to review all of their financial options.
Insurance Coverage
We accept many types of medical and vision insurance. Your insurance may not cover laser cataract surgery or the use of a premium IOL, but basic cataract removal and IOLs are usually covered.
We can help you work with your insurance provider to see if there are some aspects of the treatment that can be covered to keep out-of-pocket costs as low as possible.
Financing Options
Our office accepts financing through CareCredit®, allowing patients to receive treatment. Afterward, patients can pay off the balance with manageable payment plans that range from six to 60 months.
See Why Colorado Loves Hines Sight
"I am so impressed with all the staff and the doctors. We have been going to the practice for several years. I had never met Dr. Coco. He is wonderful. Bernadette did a fantastic job detailing my cataract surgery and Dr. Coco did a stellar job calming me down the morning of the surgery. I was very nervous but Dr. Coco was very calm and reassuring. Just what I needed. Don’t hesitate to get cataract surgery and know that every member of the staff and the doctors are wonderful. It was a very positive experience." Molly Picha, 5-Star Review
