FAMILY EYE PHYSICIANS SEMINAR: CATARACT & GLAUCOMA

Expert insights from Dr. Mohammad Al-khudari and the team at Family Eye Physicians

 

If you’ve been experiencing blurry vision, glare while driving at night, or wondering about that yellowish tint in your vision, you’re not alone.

 

Dr. Mohammad Al-khudari, a board-certified ophthalmologist with over 23 years of experience at Family Eye Physicians, recently hosted an educational seminar addressing the most common vision concerns affecting adults: **cataracts and glaucoma**.

 

With offices across Chicagoland, including Oak Lawn, Orland Park, Chicago, Buffalo Grove, Schaumburg, and their newest location in Oakbrook Terrace, Family Eye Physicians has been helping patients achieve clearer vision through advanced surgical techniques and personalized care.

What Exactly Is a Cataract?

Think of your smartphone camera lens getting foggy and dirty – that’s essentially what happens with cataracts. Dr. Al-khudari explains it simply: “The cataract is when the normal clear lens in your eye gets dirty or cloudy, just like a camera lens that needs cleaning.”

Common Cataract Symptoms Include:

– **Blurry vision** that worsens over time
– **Sensitivity to light** during daily activities
– **Glare and halos** around lights, especially when driving at night
– **Yellowish tint** to your vision
– **Difficulty seeing clearly** even with updated glasses

The challenge with cataracts affecting both eyes is that vision deteriorates so gradually, many patients don’t realize how foggy their world has become until after treatment.

The Revolutionary Difference:

Laser vs. Traditional Cataract Surgery

When considering cataract surgery, Dr. Al-khudari emphasizes the importance of asking your surgeon one crucial question: **”How will you remove my cataract – laser or traditional method?”**

Traditional Manual Method:

– Uses a blade to make incisions
– Surgeon manually removes the cataract
– Like driving with a manual transmission – it works, but requires more skill and effort

Advanced Laser Cataract Surgery:

– **More precise** with computer-guided accuracy- **Less energy** used in the eye, reducing trauma
– **Safer for the eye** with consistent, perfect circular openings
– **Smoother, quicker, and easier** recovery process
– **Always consistent** – “The laser never has a bad day,” notes Dr. Al-khudari

“It’s like the difference between a manual transmission and automatic,” explains Dr. Al-khudari. “In 10-20 years, all cataract surgery will likely be laser-assisted.”

Understanding Your Lens Options: More Than Just Basic Vision

After cataract removal, you’ll need a replacement lens. Think of it like choosing glasses – there are multiple options available:

1. **Traditional Lens (Distance Only)**

– Provides clear distance vision
– Reading glasses still needed for close work

2. **Multifocal Lens (Distance and Near)**

– Reduces dependence on reading glasses
– Uses different rings for various distances

3. **Trifocal Lens (Distance, Intermediate, and Near)**

– Provides vision at all distances
– Ideal for computer work and daily activities

4. **Light Adjustable Lens (Custom-Tailored)**

Family Eye Physicians is among the first practices in Illinois to offer this revolutionary technology. Like getting a custom-tailored dress from a seamstress, this lens is specifically adjusted to your eye after surgery for optimal vision.

Advanced Technology for Better Outcomes

The practice utilizes cutting-edge diagnostic equipment to create a 3D model of your eye before surgery, ensuring precise treatment planning. This technology allows surgeons to:

– Map your eye’s unique characteristics
– Plan the exact surgical approach
– Minimize complications and optimize results
– Address astigmatism simultaneously

Addressing Glaucoma During Cataract Surgery

For patients with both cataracts and glaucoma, Family Eye Physicians offers the **Omni procedure** – a minimally invasive technique that can lower eye pressure during cataract surgery, addressing both conditions simultaneously.

What to Expect:

The Cataract Surgery Experience

– **Outpatient procedure** – no hospital stay required
– **15-minute surgery** with rapid recovery
– **Minimal to no pain** reported by most patients
– **Eyes typically done 1 month apart** for optimal brain adjustment
– **Team-based care** with 14 doctors across multiple locations

Cost and Insurance Considerations

While insurance covers traditional cataract surgery, laser-assisted surgery and premium lenses are typically not covered. However, Family Eye Physicians offers:

– **Competitive pricing** for laser surgery in the Chicago area
– **Flexible financing options** to fit various budgets
– **Payment plans** to make advanced technology accessible
– **Transparent pricing** with no hidden fees

Your Journey to Clearer Vision Starts Here

Family Eye Physicians assigns each patient a dedicated surgical counselor who guides you through every step of the process – from initial consultation through post-operative care. With locations throughout Chicagoland, you can receive consistent care even if you travel between offices.

Cataract symptoms

Schedule Your Cataract Consultation Today

Contact Family Eye Physicians Laser Centers today for a complete eye exam to test for cataracts. Our team of expert doctors and eye care professionals also provide laser cataract surgery, premium cataract implants, diabetic laser treatment, laser vision correction, and more. We serve patients in Buffalo Grove, Orland Park, Oak Lawn, and the Albany Park neighborhood of Chicago. Schedule an appointment online or call us today at 708-636-9393.

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A CATARACT EVALUATION