Riemer Eye Center implements new cataract surgery technology.

Riemer Eye Center implements new cataract surgery technology.

#MasonCountyHealth

LUDINGTON — More than half of the people in the United States have cataracts in their eyes before the age of 80. Riemer Eye Center recently began practicing a new procedure that includes some of the newest technology in treatment.

Recently, Dr. Steffany Straight of Riemer Eye Center performed the procedure that includes the insertion of Tecnis Symfony Intraocular Lenses, which provide patients with a high quality extended depth of focus, whereas other corrective lenses provide single vision correction, meaning either they may see distance clearer than up close or vice versa.

The Symfony lens affords patients the ability to see objects sharply at a distance and also near and points in between.

“We are pleased to be able to offer this advanced lens to our patients and expect results to be overwhelmingly positive,” said Dr. Andrew Riemer.  Only 50 patients in northern Michigan have had the Symfony lenses implanted thus far and for those who lead an active lifestyle and want to wear glasses less, this is an option that gives patients that freedom, he said.

A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye leading to a decrease in vision. It can affect one or both eyes. Often it develops slowly. Symptoms may include faded colors, blurry vision, halos around light, trouble with bright lights, and trouble seeing at night.

Cataracts are most commonly due to aging but may also occur due to trauma or radiation exposure, be present from birth, or occur following eye surgery for other problems. Risk factors include diabetes, smoking tobacco, prolonged exposure to sunlight, and alcohol. Either clumps of protein or yellow-brown pigment may be deposited in the lens reducing the transmission of light to the retina at the back of the eye. Diagnosis is by an eye examination.

Riemer Eye Center is located at 5959 Lawndale St.