Cataracts
We specialize in Advanced Refractive Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery and now offer the ORA System!
The technology we use combined with the experience of our surgeons is why so many patients trust the Black Hills Regional Eye Institute for their Cataract Surgery.
We perform over 3500 eye surgeries every year. Our surgeons travel to many satellite clinics and surgical locations throughout South Dakota and Wyoming to make surgery as accessible and convenient as we can for all of our patients.
If you are developing cataracts or have you been told by an eye doctor that you are in the early stages of developing cataracts? There is no need to panic, Black Hills Regional Eye Institute is here for you. Over the past 30 years, there have been huge advances made in Cataract Surgery technology.
What is a Cataract?
Cataract Surgery is a safe and relatively simple outpatient procedure where the natural lens inside of the eye that has become cloudy from cataract formation is removed and replaced with an artificial lens, called an Intraocular Lens (IOL). Generally, Cataract Surgery is done on an outpatient basis and normally takes between 15 to 30 minutes. Patients who have had Cataract Surgery experience little to no pain and often can return to their normal routine the following day.
What Causes Cataracts?
Although the majority of cataracts develop on their own, as a part of the natural aging process, there are certain risk factors that can contribute to cataracts developing earlier, or at an accelerated rate.
Risk Factors include:
- Trauma to the eye, including injury, burns, or surgery
- Toxins, including regular use of tobacco, alcohol or corticosteroids
- Exposure to radiation, X-rays, or ultraviolet(UV)light
- Certain diseases, including diabetes, hypothyroidism, and glaucoma
Heredity can also play a factor in determining when cataracts will begin to form in your lenses.
What Are The Symptoms Of Cataracts?
Symptoms include:
- Blurred Vision – Blurriness is one of the earliest and most common signs of cataracts.
- Faded or dull colors – Colors appear less vivid than they once were, Certain shades can become more difficult to differentiate from one another.
- Poor night vision – At first, you may simply need more light to read, Over time, you may find it more difficult to see objects in the dark, particularly when driving.
- Sensitivity to light – Lights may seem uncomfortably bright, or appear to have halos around them.
Click to view our Surgery Options Flowchart
More about Traditional Surgery VS Advanced Bladeless Surgery
Comments from our patients
“Thank you all! I am enjoying a brighter world today.” Marilyn B
“Efficient, friendly, kind staff. Everyone did a very good job answering my questions and making me feel comfortable emotionally and physically.” Cheryl W
“Received, timely, professional, caring services from all staff. Will return for follow-up care and future annual check-ups. Thank yo to all for improving my eyesight.” Mary Ann J
“Your Staff is just Outstanding! “ Kenna R
“Completely satisfied with the outcome of cataract surgery of both eyes. I feel my vision is back to normal – 20/20. The professional yet courteous treatment by all your staff alleviated any concerns I had before procedures. Thank you, I feel great! “ LaVern J.
“I am so delighted with my new eyesight! Thank you so much Dr. Khachikian and your staff! Everyone at B.H. Regional Eye Institute is so nice & friendly. It was a pleasure to work with all of you. Thanks so much!” Alice H
“Thank you so much for actually listening and accommodating my preferences. This is not usually the case with medical professionals. That alone puts your facility and staff head and shoulders above the rest. Outstanding work.” Sundai B
“The people at the Eye Institute are wonderful and have made what started as a very scary experience into a completely positive result. Thank you so much!” Cindy C.
