CATARACT SURGERY ST. PETERSBURG & TAMPA BAY
COMFORT CATARACT SURGERY™
With the development of Laser Cataract Surgery and state-of-the-art lens implant technology, deciding where and what type of cataract surgery to have has become increasingly confusing. Dr. Updegraff has more than 20 years’ experience in cataract and laser eye surgery.
The Comfort Cataract Surgery™ has been developed with years of surgical experience keeping you, the patient, first and foremost. Safety, results and your comfort are our priorities. It begins by meeting with one of our doctors personally to identify your individual goals and to help you select the technologies that will be most beneficial to you.
With more than two decades of experience in laser surgery, Updegraff Laser Vision has developed a unique approach that emphasizes comfort, safety and excellent results. Updegraff Laser Vision has a Medicare and AAHC approved Cataract Surgery Center to provide you with the highest level of convenience and quality. For some patients, traditional cataract surgery is more economical and achieves all of their goals nicely. Others wish to explore more advanced lens technologies that correct astigmatism or reduce their dependence on reading and distance glasses.
In each unique case, your Cataract doctor is there to explain all of your options and will help you make the best selection based on your goals and his years of expertise. We look forward to helping you See The Difference™!
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts are when the lens in our eyes become cloudy. Cataracts can make your vision look:
- Blurry
- Hazy
- Less Colorful
- Foggy
- Filmy
- Nearsightedness
- Issues driving at night
- Problems with glare during the day
- Double vision
- Trouble with eyeglasses or contact lenses
Most of the time, cataracts develop slowly over the years. You may not even notice you have them until they start to block light from your vision. If you have any concerns about your vision being affected by cataracts, Schedule a Cataract Consultation today with Updegraff Laser Vision.
Schedule Your Cataract Consultation Today!
What Causes Cataracts?
For the most part, cataracts are a part of the natural aging process. Almost everyone will develop a cataract at some point later in life.
However, there are factors which have been proven to increase the likelihood of developing cataracts. These include smoking, diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure, use of steroid medications, and more.
As always, it’s best to consult your eye doctor regularly for signs of cataract development. If you’re in the greater Tampa or St Petersburg areas and fear you may be developing cataracts, contact us here at Updegraff Laser Vision as soon as possible. Dr. Updegraff and his team of experienced cataract surgeons will diagnose any conditions you have and treat you accordingly, up to and including removal through laser cataract surgery.
Schedule Your Cataract Consultation Today!
Updegraff Laser Vison Cataract Firsts and Facts
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a cataract?
Cataracts are formed when your natural crystalline lens becomes clouded. This discoloration can cause a variety of symptoms, including poor night vision, glare, and even severely reduced vision with or without glasses.
How are cataracts removed?
Advancements in modern cataract surgery allow the cloudy lens to be removed and replaced with a new, clear lens. To do this, your doctor will first create a microscopic opening in the cellophane-like bag that holds the natural lens in front of the eye. He’ll then break up the cataract using a machine that generates ultrasonic waves, and remove it through a tiny incision in the cornea.
Once the cataract has been removed, your doctor will fold up the replacement lens – called a lens implant – and use a tube to place it in the front of the eye. The new lens then opens like a flower in the position where your natural lens previously rested.
What is laser cataract surgery?
In a contemporary cataract surgery, the lens is removed using ultrasound technology. However, an advancement that is currently under development involves the use of a femtosecond laser (the type of laser used to make the corneal flap in LASIK surgery) to remove the lens.
Throughout the years Dr. Updegraff has been working with the industry, laser technology has been used to achieve many exciting technological advancements. He remains involved in the development of laser cataract surgery, and has personally examined this technology to determine its capabilities.
Is surgery performed on both eyes at the same time?
No. If both eyes need surgery, they are typically performed one week apart.
How long does the cataract surgery take?
You will usually be at the surgery center for about 2 hours, but most surgeries will only take about 10 minutes.
Am I put to sleep for the surgery?
No. We will want a through medical history and record of all medicines taken, but you will not discontinue them unless otherwise directed by the doctor.
No. You will receive a light sedation to help you relax. Dr. Updegraff wants you awake during surgery. Although you will still be awake, most patients will not remember the surgery.
Is the surgery painful?
No. Eye drops are used to numb the surface of the eye as well as inside of your eye. Patients feel pressure on the eyelids, cool fluid, and see a ring of lights. It’s better to keep both of your eyes open and it’s okay to blink.
I take several medications including a blood thinner. Do I need to stop taking them?
No. We will want a through medical history and record of all medicines taken, but you will not discontinue them unless otherwise directed by the doctor.
Can I drive the following day?
Many will feel comfortable to drive, but there are also many who may have an imbalance between their eyes after their first surgery. Those who have an imbalance and reduced depth perception are encouraged to limit driving during the week between surgeries. In addition, caution should be taken while walking up and down stairs and curbs after the first eye if the depth perception is initially reduced.
Are there any physical restrictions after surgery?
The most important thing is not to rub your eye. You will need to wear a clear, plastic shield at night for the first week to help protect it. Although the risk of infection is rare, we also ask you to avoid swimming in pools and hot tubs for the first week.
Why should I have laser cataract surgery?
The primary benefit is the precision of the laser incisions which can lead to more accurate outcomes when you choose a high tech lens implant. The second benefit is for astigmatism correction with the laser.
Where does Dr. Updegraff perform cataract and lens implant surgery?
Dr. Updegraff is the only surgeon at Updegraff Vision Precision LASIK and Cataract Center. All surgeries are performed on-site in our state of the art, accredited Ambulatory Surgery Center (ASC). This provides the highest level of convenience and safety for patients.