Nearly everyone eventually develops cataracts, and they cannot be reversed without surgery. However, certain proactive lifestyle adjustments can reduce your risk of cataracts. 

Even if you have already been diagnosed with early cataract formation, you may choose to adopt a healthier lifestyle and use proper eye protection regardless, as the same habits that reduce your risk of cataracts (i.e. quitting smoking) are also good for other aspects of your well-being.

Here, Marietta ophthalmologist Dr. Jordan Stanley, a cataract surgery specialist, explains how cataracts develop and the steps you can take to protect your vision.

What are cataracts, and why do they develop?

Cataracts are a clouding of the eye’s natural lens and the leading cause of vision impairment worldwide. The condition is often age-related—the proteins and fibers in the lens break down and clump together, blocking and scattering light. Cataracts can also be caused by eye trauma, medical conditions such as diabetes, and the long-term use of steroid medications.

Aging is the most common cause of cataracts, but UV exposure, smoking, diabetes, and certain medications can accelerate their development.

As cataracts progress, they can blur vision, increase sensitivity to glare, and make colors appear duller. While aging may be the most common cause of the development and progression of cataracts, other factors like UV exposure, smoking, diabetes, and certain medications can accelerate their development.

Prevent cataracts early by controlling your risk factors

Timely cataract surgery is key to preserving your vision once cataracts have accelerated to a certain degree. If you are not ready for surgery or simply want to prevent cataract formation, adopt these evidence-based strategies to try and slow cataract progression and, thus, the need for surgery:

1. Protect your eyes from UV rays

Prolonged UV exposure is a significant risk factor for cataract progression, as UV rays accelerate the breakdown of proteins in the lens which will cause further clouding. Wear sunglasses and hats to block UVA and UVB rays whenever you’re outdoors.

2. Prioritize a nutritious diet

A diet rich in antioxidants can protect your eyes from oxidative stress, one of the key contributors to cataract formation. Leafy greens (like spinach and kale), colorful fruits (such as oranges and berries), and fish high in omega-3 fatty acids (like salmon) are packed with nutrients like lutein, zeaxanthin, and vitamins C and are excellent options to bolster eye health.

3. Quit smoking

Smoking introduces harmful toxins into your body, making smokers up to three times more likely to develop cataracts compared to non-smokers. If you need help quitting, ask your primary care physician about smoking cessation programs to break the habit and lower your risk of eye-related complications.

4. Manage chronic conditions like diabetes

Chronic illnesses including diabetes and hypertension can accelerate cataract development if left uncontrolled. High blood sugar levels, for example, can lead to changes in the lens that worsen cataracts. If you have a chronic condition, regular check-ups and consistent blood sugar and blood pressure monitoring may help prevent accelerating your cataract symptoms.

5. Schedule annual eye exams

Medical eye exams allow your ophthalmologist to monitor the condition of your eyes’ lenses and recommend timely interventions. Dr. Stanley uses advanced diagnostic tools to assess your eye health and provide personalized recommendations.

“Dr. Stanley was kind and professional. He was very helpful, giving solid and understandable insight into the current and future health of my eyes. He provided options and paths forward for maintaining eye health in the long term. I highly recommend Dr. Stanley and Puresight Surgical!”

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What happens if you get cataracts?

Unfortunately, even with diligent efforts to preserve eye health, the severity of cataract symptoms will eventually worsen. Once these symptoms begin to significantly interfere with your daily activities, such as reading, driving, or recognizing faces, it’s time to consider cataract surgery. 

Modern cataract surgery has a very high success rate—about 95% of patients have their vision restored.

Early detection is very important; be sure to attend annual eye exams with an optometrist or ophthalmologist to monitor any changes to your eye health and vision, even if you do not have any symptoms.

Benefits of cataract surgery

To correct cataracts, Dr. Stanley removes the clouded lens and replaces it with a clear, artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The method is considered to be one of the safest surgical procedures and offers numerous benefits:

• Restored vision. The new lens allows light to properly focus on the retina and restores sharp and clear vision. Nearly all patients experience dramatic improvements in their ability to see colors, read, and drive after cataract surgery.
• Reduced dependence on eyeglasses. Advanced IOL technology, such as multifocal and toric lenses, can correct presbyopia and astigmatism, allowing many patients to enjoy glasses-free vision for most activities.
• Quick recovery and permanent results. Cataract surgery is minimally invasive and takes only 10-20 minutes to complete. Most patients experience improved vision within days of the surgery, with full results expected after two to six weeks. With proper post-operative care, your new lens can provide clear vision for the rest of your life.
• Enhanced safety. Poor vision caused by cataracts can increase the risk of falls and accidents. Restoring your vision with cataract surgery reduces the likelihood of injuries, particularly for older adults, for greater peace of mind for you and your loved ones.
• Glaucoma prevention. In some cases, advanced cataracts can increase your risk of developing glaucoma—an eye disease that damages the optic nerve, which can cause vision loss and blindness. As cataracts grow, they can thicken and cloud the lens and constrict the drainage angle of the eye. This buildup of fluid and increased intraocular pressure may cause glaucoma.
• Improved quality of life. Cataract surgery enables you to fully engage in any activities that were previously limited by poor eyesight. This may allow you to regain some lost independence and confidence in performing everyday tasks, as well as enjoy more of your favorite hobbies once your vision is clearer. 

Our Practice Model

At PureSight Surgical, we provide transparent pricing and personalized care to save you both time and money. For patients who are un- or under-insured, this empowers you to understand what your care costs and avoid unexpected fees and charges.

How it works

Why choose Dr. Jordan Stanley for cataract care in Marietta?

Dr. Stanley combines cutting-edge technology with compassionate care to help preserve and maintain optimal eye health. His expertise in cataract surgery helps him personalize treatment plans for each patient, and his transparent pricing model ensures you can trust Dr. Stanley to provide the highest quality care.

Cataracts may be a natural part of aging, but with the right care from an expert ophthalmologist, you can take control of your eye health and maintain your independence. Schedule a consultation with Dr. Jordan Stanley today to learn more about your options to address cataracts. Call our Marietta office at (770) 230-2020 or fill out our online appointment request form to take the next step toward clearer, brighter vision. Don’t let cataracts hold you back from a life well lived!

When people think of vision correction, LASIK is often the first procedure that comes to mind, but it is not the ideal solution for everyone—especially those with dry eye syndrome. Dry eye is the most common side effect of LASIK, so if you already have dry eye syndrome, you may be advised not to undergo LASIK or you may understandably have concerns about the procedure. 

Fortunately, an advanced alternative called Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) surgery offers exceptional vision correction without exacerbating dry eyes. Here, Dr. Jordan Stanley, a Marietta ophthalmologist and board-certified refractive surgery specialist, explains how ICL works and why it is an excellent choice for patients with dry eyes.

Why is LASIK not ideal for dry eye sufferers?

LASIK reshapes the cornea using a laser, which permanently alters the cornea and can disrupt corneal nerves and reduce tear production. Many patients experience temporary or even long-term dry eye symptoms after LASIK. Those who already struggle with dry eyes may find that LASIK worsens their symptoms and makes daily activities like reading or computer work more uncomfortable, requiring frequent eye drops throughout the day.

By contrast, ICL corrects vision without removing or reshaping corneal tissue. By placing a corrective lens inside the eye, ICL preserves the eye’s natural structure and tear production for a safer and more comfortable option for dry eye sufferers.

“Dr. Stanley was extremely thorough and really took time to explain everything to me- much more so than other eye doctors have in my past. His staff is friendly and welcoming, and his clinic is bright and inviting. Highly recommend this practice.”

—5-star Google review

What is ICL, and how does it work?

An Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) is a permanent, flexible, and biocompatible lens that is implanted into the eye to correct refractive errors—nearsightedness (myopia) and astigmatism.

Dr. Stanley places the thin collamer lens inside the eye, between the iris and the natural lens, to restore clearer vision. ICL surgery is a quick procedure—typically lasting just 20 to 30 minutes—and provides long-term vision correction without increasing the risk of dry eye symptoms. 

• Related: Dr. Stanley Receives World-Class Training in ICL Refractive Surgery, a Lens-Based LASIK Alternative

Unlike LASIK, which permanently alters the cornea by removing and reshaping corneal tissue, ICL provides high-definition vision correction while preserving the natural structure of the cornea.

What are the benefits of ICL over LASIK?

ICL is one of the best LASIK alternatives for dry eyes and also offers several other advantages:

• Preserves corneal health: ICL does not alter corneal shape or thickness, so you’re less likely to experience dry eye complications.
• Reduces risk of night vision changes: ICL patients report fewer issues with halos and glare compared to those who have had LASIK.
• UV protection: The Collamer material naturally filters UV rays to protect the eyes from sun damage.
• Treats higher prescriptions: ICL corrects severe nearsightedness beyond the limits of LASIK.
• Reversible and adaptable: ICL can be safely removed or upgraded in the future if your vision needs change—unlike LASIK, which permanently alters the cornea.

Who is a candidate for ICL surgery?

You may be a good candidate for ICL if you:

• Have moderate to severe nearsightedness (-3.00 to -20.00 diopters) with or without astigmatism
• Are between 21 and 45 years old with stable vision
• Have dry eyes, thin corneas, or high prescriptions
• Want a long-term vision correction solution without the risks of LASIK
• Even if you’ve been told you are not a candidate for LASIK, you may still qualify for ICL surgery.

Dr. Stanley assesses your eye health and prescription to determine if ICL is the best option for your vision needs at our Marietta ophthalmology office. 

What to expect from the ICL procedure and recovery

Dr. Stanley performs ICL surgery as an outpatient procedure using numbing eye drops and an optional mild sedative to help you relax. You will likely see an improvement in your vision immediately and continued improvement over the next several days. You will not have any stitches and can return to work and resume most normal activities within 24 hours. However, heavy lifting and strenuous exercise should be avoided for the first week to ensure proper healing. Dr. Stanley will provide personalized aftercare instructions to support your recovery and ensure the best possible results.

Board-certified ophthalmologist Dr. Jordan Stanley and his expert team at PureSight Surgical offer advanced vision correction options tailored to your unique eye health needs. To explore your vision correction options, schedule a consultation with Dr. Stanley today by calling (770) 230-2020.

Dr. Jordan Stanley, board-certified ophthalmologist and owner of PureSight Surgical, completed advanced training in Implantable Collamer Lens (ICL) refractive surgery at the Zaldivar Institute in Mendoza, Argentina in November 2024.  

ICL implants are placed in the eye, between the iris and the natural lens, to correct nearsightedness and astigmatism. Receiving world-class training in this technique enables Dr. Stanley to offer patients long-term vision correction safely and effectively for Marietta patients, in addition to our other ophthalmology services like cataract surgery and glaucoma management.

The Globally-Recognized Zaldivar Institute

The Zaldivar Institute is globally renowned for expertise in ICL surgery, and Dr. Stanley was among a select group of twelve international surgeons accepted to participate in the immersive ICL course. 

The Advantages of ICL Surgery Over Traditional LASIK for Vision Correction

While LASIK is the most well-known refractive surgery to people in the United States, ICL offers several advantages over LASIK: It treats greater degrees of nearsightedness, preserves the corneal structure, provides UV protection, and is reversible. Additionally, patients often experience better night vision with fewer instances of halos or glares.

ICL corrects a greater degree of nearsightedness than LASIK, and does not worsen dry eye syndrome.

The procedure involves implanting a flexible collamer lens inside the eye to correct vision, without altering the corneal shape or removing corneal tissue. LASIK surgery reshapes the cornea and thus can exacerbate or initiate dry eye syndrome.

Our Practice Model

At PureSight Surgical, we provide transparent pricing and personalized care to save you both time and money. For patients who are un- or under-insured, this empowers you to understand what your care costs and avoid unexpected fees and charges.

How it works

The FDA-Approved EVO ICL Lenses

Dr. Stanley uses the latest generation of EVO ICL™ lenses, approved by the FDA in 2022, which provide UV protection and feature a central port that eliminates the need for peripheral iridotomies. With over 2 million ICLs implanted worldwide, the procedure has a proven track record of safety and success in offering freedom from glasses and contacts.

Are you interested in learning more about ICL surgery and whether you are a candidate? Visit our complete guide to ICL surgery or call (770) 230-2020 to schedule your consultation with Marietta ophthalmologist Dr. Stanley.

Did you know your home is filled with items that can put your eyesight at risk? Some items are obvious, such as kitchen knives and other sharp objects, but many eye injuries are caused by items you’ve probably overlooked or underestimated. 

Marietta ophthalmologist Dr. Jordan Stanley trained at the University of Alabama at Birmingham Callahan Eye Hospital—home to one of only two 24/7 emergency eye care centers dedicated to eye medical, surgical, and trauma emergencies. Now practicing in Marietta, GA, Dr. Stanley shares practical tips on how to protect your vision from seven household items that can cause serious, and sometimes permanent, eye injuries.

1. Rugs and railings

A loose rug in the entryway or an unstable stair railing may not directly cause an eye injury, but a resulting fall could. The impact of a fall can cause anything from minor abrasions to more serious injuries like hyphema (bleeding in the front of the eye) or even retinal detachment. Children and the elderly are especially prone to falls.

How to prevent eye injuries: You can help minimize potential injuries by securing rugs with non-slip pads, fixing any loose railings promptly, and padding sharp corners on furniture or countertop edges in high-traffic areas.  

2. Champagne corks

Champagne corks can shoot out of a bottle at speeds up to 50-80 mph, and if pointed in the wrong direction, they can end a celebration in the blink of an eye. According to a study that analyzed eye injury statistics from carbonated beverage bottles, champagne bottle corks were responsible for 20% of the eye injuries. 

50mph is enough to break glass, so a wayward cork can cause serious injuries, including bleeding, a scratched cornea, cataracts, traumatic glaucoma, or retinal detachment. While relatively rare, these latter conditions can lead to vision loss and blindness. Vision lost to glaucoma is permanent and cannot be restored.

How to prevent eye injuries: When opening a bottle, wrap a towel around the neck to slow down the cork’s speed and always point the cork away from people. 

3. Tools & lawn equipment

These items don’t necessarily pose a threat to your eye health on their own, but they can be the catalyst for serious eye risks. One 10-year study found that lawnmowers caused 70,000 injuries, with 3,300 of those injuries being eye-related.

Lawnmowers spin at 2900-3200 RPMs, and gas-powered weed eaters can spin even faster at up to 12,000 RPM—that’s almost 400 miles per hour. At these speeds, even the tiniest pebble or splinter can be devastating if your eyes are in the wrong place at the wrong time. Flying debris is a concern with power tools, too, as they account for about 25% of all eye injuries according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology. Drilling, nailing, and sanding can launch shards of wood, plastic, and other surfaces into your eyes causing bleeding between the cornea and iris (hyphema), retina damage, and eye pressure problems, among others.  

How to prevent eye injuries: Always wear American National Standards Institute (ANSI)-approved safety goggles or face shields when using tools or lawn equipment. Also, ensure that others (including children and pets) are at a safe distance from your workspace. If debris enters your eye, avoid rubbing it and seek immediate medical attention; an ophthalmologist can thoroughly clean your eye and assess any potential damage.

4. Handheld fireworks

Most of us keep a safe distance from the “big” fireworks, but it’s the ones you hold in your hand that have made this list. The most recent Annual Fireworks Report by the US Consumer Product Safety Commission notes that injuries to the eyes account for about 19% of all firework-related injuries. Another sobering statistic stated in the report is that the highest rate of total injuries was in children aged 5-9 and 15-19. 

Nearly 1 in 5 firework injuries are to the eyes, so adults and kids who handle them should wear ANSI-approved eye protection.

Sparklers burn between 1,800° and 3,000°F (for reference, exposure to heat exceeding 150°F for just two seconds can cause a 3rd-degree burn). The bright sparks and flying debris of sparklers and smaller fireworks can cause everything from minor irritations to catastrophic injuries like corneal lacerations or retinal damage. 

How to prevent eye injuries: If fireworks will be part of your celebrations, wear eye protection at all times. It’s especially important to closely supervise children when handling fireworks and provide eye protection for them, too.

5. Fingers

According to an eight-year study on childhood eye injuries by Clinical & Experimental Ophthalmology, about 26% of the injuries occurred because the child poked themselves or was poked accidentally. Typical child’s play is a prime scenario for fingers (or any hand-held objects, like sticks and toys) to find their way into an eye, and children may accidentally poke themselves more often because spatial awareness and fine motor skills are still developing. 

Adults experience fewer accidental eye pokes, but getting poked in the eye is still a common cause of eye injury; applying makeup, putting on sunglasses, or contact sports can all result in eye trauma including damage to the cornea or ocular surface and vision loss. 

How to prevent eye injuries: Accidents happen, but you can limit the risk of eye pokes by wearing protective eyewear, especially during activities that make the eyes more vulnerable than usual. Many eye pokes only require at-home care, such as washing out the eyes with water or artificial tears. If there is no improvement in pain or vision after 12 hours, have an ophthalmologist assess the damage and follow their recommendations on caring for the eye. 

6. Cleaning supplies

Cleaning agents like bleach, drain cleaners, detergents, and stain removers can be dangerous if mishandled, as they cause about 125,000 eye injuries each year. Many household cleaners contain substances that can cause chemical burns, irritation, and even permanent damage to your eyes. 

Cleaning agents can harm the eyes, so keep them stored out of kids’ reach—especially colorful, bouncy detergent pods.

Further, many cleaning products are now available in dissolvable pods, which are particularly appealing to kids, as they are usually colorful and have a squishy, bouncy consistency. But because they are designed to quickly disintegrate, it doesn’t take much handling for the detergent to spill out and potentially come in contact with the eyes. 

How to prevent eye injuries: Always store cleaning products out of reach of children, preferably in locked cabinets. Make sure you use cleaning products in well-ventilated areas and wear safety glasses and gloves when handling harsh chemicals.

If chemicals get into your eyes, rinse immediately with plenty of water for at least 15 minutes and seek emergency medical care. Quick action can prevent severe damage and preserve your vision.

7. Bungee cords

Bungee cords seem endlessly useful for securing items, but they can snap back or fly off, potentially causing extremely serious eye injuries like lacerations, abrasions, bleeding, traumatic cataracts, or retina damage. An observational study on bungee cord-related eye injuries found that a staggering 59% of these eye injuries resulted in permanent vision loss, three of the patients lost the perception of light in the injured eye, and one patient had to have their blind eye removed due to pain. 

How to prevent eye injuries: We recommend disposing of bungee cords and replacing them with ratchet straps or static rope.

Seeking Care for Eye Injuries

Anyone who experiences an eye injury, even seemingly minor, should see an experienced ophthalmologist to prevent long-term damage and preserve vision. Seek immediate care if you suspect that something may be stuck in your eye.

Led by Dr. Jordan Stanley, a board-certified ophthalmologist and fellowship-trained glaucoma specialist, PureSight Surgical provides transparent pricing for ophthalmology services to save you both time and money. There are no hidden fees, so you always know what to expect.

Whether you need a medical eye exam, cataract surgery, glaucoma management, or you are curious about ICL vision correction, we offer affordable care without the middlemen. We’re locally-owned and operated, and we take ample time to get to know you—a critical part of providing excellent care. Learn more about our patient-first approach on our website! To make an appointment, please call our Marietta office at (770) 230-2020.