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Cataracts

If you are over 40 and developing cloudy vision and sensitivity to light, you may be developing cataracts.

Surgery is the only permanent solution - fortunately, it is also safe, affordable, and highly effective.

Dr. David Mills can diagnose and treat your cataracts at his Pensacola, FL, practice, removing the cloudy lens and restoring your eyesight.

What Are Cataracts?

There is a natural lens in our eyes (called the crystalline lens) that helps focus incoming light rays onto the retina, allowing us to see. When we are younger, these lenses are clear and strong, contributing to sharp vision. However, as we age, this natural lens can become cloudy. These cloudy areas are called cataracts, and they can cause:

Vision Distortion

Cataracts distort the light that passes through to the retina, causing uncomfortable glare from light sources and blurry vision that makes it look like you are viewing life through a dirty window.

Potential Blindness

Without treatment, the cloudiness will gradually increase until it completely obscures your vision. There is only one permanent solution to cataracts: surgical replacement of the cloudy lens and with an artificial lens called an IOL (intraocular lens).

You Don't Have to Suffer with Cloudy Vision

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Although keeping current on your glasses (or sunglasses) prescription, using bright lighting in your home, and taking other measures can help you retain some focus after you begin noticing the effects, cataract surgery is the only permanent solution. Fortunately, this procedure is covered by insurance and is extremely safe. If you are tired of suffering with compromised vision due to cataracts, our Pensacola, FL, practice is here to help bring your world back into focus. 

More than 10,000 Successful Procedures Performed by a Leader in the Field

Dr. David Mills has vast experience in the field of ophthalmology and ophthalmic surgery. He is a respected and highly skilled surgeon with more than 10,000 successful cataract surgeries to his credit and is certified by both the American Board of Ophthalmology and the American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery. In 2018, Dr. Mills was voted the "Best of the Bay Winner" for Best Ophthalmologist.

If you're noticing cloudiness to your vision, increased glare from light sources, poor night vision, or other changes, we recommend that you reach out to our state-of-the-art ophthalmology practice in Pensacola, FL, for a comprehensive eye exam as soon as possible. Feel free to book a visit using our simple online form or give us a call. Our vision is to protect and restore your vision.

(850) 266-7500
 

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Pensacola Trusts Our Ophthalmologist

1

Sally Michener

2016

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I have found Mills Eye personnel to be pleasant and helpful.  My cataract surgery went just fine.

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1

Lily Rose

2022

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The staff are very caring and friendly and professional. Dr. Mills took his time and explained my cataract to me and that it was due to my medication (steroids) for my asthma use. I love this place !!! I recommend Mills Eye to everyone Dr. Mills is a great surgeon too.

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Optometrist V. Ophthalmologist  What's the Difference?

Optometrists and ophthalmologists regularly work together to take care of patients.

Optometrist

Optometrists focus on the primary health of your eye. Through routine eye exams, optometrists can maintain your eye health and prescribe corrective lenses to restore your vision.

Ophthalmologist

An ophthalmologist focuses on the surgical care of your eye. They can diagnose and surgically treat conditions like glaucoma, cataracts, eye trauma, iritis, and more.

What a Cataract Looks Like

Illustration of a healthy eye and an eye with cataracts
Click HERE to View / Download Cataract Patient Information

What Puts Me at Risk Of Developing a Cataract?

Anyone can develop a cataract, but there are certain factors that can put you more at risk.


Advanced Age

As you age, your risk of developing a cataract increases, especially after 55.


Eye Injury

A previous eye injury can cause undiagnosed damage that could lead to a cataract developing in the future.


Family History

You are more at risk of developing a cataract if your family has a medical history of the condition.


Medical Concerns

If you are struggling with obesity, high blood pressure, or other underlying medical conditions that affect your cardiovascular health, you have a greater risk of developing a cataract.


Tobacco Use

Smoking negatively affects your cardiovascular health, which puts you at a greater risk for developing a cataract.

Dr. Mills Can Improve Your Vision With Premium IntraOcular Lenses (IOLs)

By replacing your cloudy lens with a premium IOL, Dr. Mills can not only restore clear vision, but also reduce or eliminate your need for corrective lenses. Mills Eye + Facial Surgery is the premier center for advanced cataract surgery and IOL placement in the Pensacola, FL, area. Board-certified ophthalmologist David Mills performs micro-incision cataract surgery and offers patients a selection of premium IOLs, including Symfony®, TECNIS® multifocal, Restor®, and Crystalens®. He also provides lenses designed to correct astigmatisms caused by misshapen corneas.

Want to learn more about how our specialist Dr. Mills can improve your vision using intraocular lenses? Set up a comprehensive eye exam today using our online form or by calling our Pensacola, FL, practice:

(850) 266-7500

ophthalmology staff

5-Star Google Reviews From Our Satisfied Patients "After having surgery here, my sight is better than I could have imagined."

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Warren Blount

2020

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After having surgery here my sight is better than I could have imagined.  The staff is always kind and courteous.  Dr Mills and Dr Mayes are on top of their game.  They have the latest equipment and technology.  All of this is apart of the A team that they lead.  So no you know why they are the best in their field hands down and vote number 1

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1

Teresa Moffett

2021

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I was taken care of very well at Dr. Mills office. I think Dr. Mayes is great. Even though it took so long for me to get my cataract surgery, it wasn't their fault that it happened, but they sure did everything they could to get it done. Thank you to everyone at Mills Eye+Facial Surgery for taking g such good care of me. There is one thing I do hate that they will no longer accept Humana.

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A Detailed Look at Cataract Surgery

Illustration of the cataract surgery procedure

Why Can't I Just Get LASIK  To Correct My Vision?

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While LASIK is a great option to correct issues like nearsightedness, farsightedness, and astigmatism, it cannot remove a cataract. LASIK is a simple refractive surgery that corrects your vision by reshaping your cornea. However, many patients notice an improvement in their vision after cataract surgery without the need for LASIK. 

What Happens During Cataract Surgery?

Worried about the procedure? No need. Nearly four million cataract surgeries are performed in the United States every year, and complications are rare. This is a virtually painless outpatient procedure that only takes about 20 minutes, but you can expect to be at our practice for about three or four hours total. Dr. Mills will give you detailed pre-surgery and post-surgery instructions in advance of the procedure.

Making You Comfortable

Numbing eye drops and calming IV sedation will be safely administered to keep you relaxed and comfortable.

Corneal Incisions

Tiny, self-healing incisions are made in the corneal tissue. Dr. Mills performs micro-incision surgery that is safe, highly successful, and requires less healing.

Removing the Cataract

The cloudy lens tissue is broken up using ultrasonic energy and gently suctioned away using the same surgical tool.

Replacing the Lens

A specialized injector places a synthetic lens (IOL) within your eye. This clear lens will once again allow light to hit your retina unfiltered.

Relax and Recover

Relax in comfort at our office while the IV sedation wears off. You will need to have someone drive you home.

Improved Vision

Recovery varies from one patient to the next based on several factors. It may take three to six weeks for your vision to fully stabilize, and Dr. Mills will schedule follow-up appointments to monitor your progress. Minor side-effects, including dry eyes, are normal during this time.

The Cataract Procedure in Action...

Are There Any Risks?

All surgeries have risks, but complications from cataract surgery are extremely rare. Dr. Mills will explain the possible side effects associated with this ocular procedure prior to your surgical appointment. These are usually very mild, temporary, and easily treated with eye drops. Follow all aftercare instructions to avoid complications such as infection. Typical side effects could include:


Dry Eyes


Swelling/Redness


Itchiness During Healing

Stop Living in a Haze Schedule Your Cataract Consultation

If you are suffering from clouded vision, you need an experienced ophthalmologist who can diagnose and treat your cataract to restore your sight. As a premier eye and facial surgery care team, it is the mission of everyone at Mills Eye + Facial Surgery to use the latest in technology to provide top-quality care in an attentive and respectful environment. If you are suffering from cloudy vision, contact our Pensacola, FL, office today to request your cataract consultation.

(850) 266-7500

Mills Eye + Facial Surgery staff
We at Mills Eye + Facial Surgery in Pensacola, FL, look forward to your visit.

See Why Pensacola Chooses Us For Their Cataract Surgery

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ANNIE CROCKETT

2022

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My doctor and all his staff is wonderful. They treat people like they want to be treated. Warm, friendly, and kind to everyone.

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eleanor farley

2022

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Dr mills and Dr May's are awesome. The care they give there patients is above and beyond. Dr. Mills is so easy to talk to. And very friendly. The office staff are so friendly and easy to make conversation with. .

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Aftercare

Always follow Dr. Mills' instructions to achieve a safe and rapid recovery. Take measures to:

Avoid Touching Your Eyes

You should refrain from touching, rubbing, or bumping your eyes during recovery, as this can lead to irritation and infection.

Avoid Straining Your Eyes

Do not lift heavy objects or go into brightly lit places without protective eyewear. Both activities can strain your eyes, which can lead to complications.

Avoid Bodies of Water

You should not get into any pool or hot tub for at least a week following your surgery. Swimming can increase your risk of infection and other complications.

Avoid Driving too Soon

Do not operate any motor vehicles until Dr. Mills deems it as safe. Doing so before you're ready can put you and other drivers at risk of an accident.

Wear Protective Eyewear Outside

You should always wear sunglasses when outside. This will help protect your eyes from sunlight, dust, and other pollutants that could cause damage.

Intraocular Lenses

Dr. Mills offers many kinds of artificial lenses to replace clouded crystalline lenses. Basic IOLs provide focus at just one distance while premium lenses can provide focus at a range of distances. Dr. Mills and his highly trained optical team in Pensacola will help you choose the lens that fits your needs, lifestyle, and budget. 

Basic IOLs

man wearing reading glasses

Basic IOLs are usually covered by insurance. However, they do have limitations in that they can only provide focus at one distance: either near or far, but not both. When choosing basic IOLs, a majority of patients choose distance IOLs and continue to wear prescription eyeglasses for near and intermediate vision tasks like computer use, watching TV, and book reading. If you no longer want to wear glasses or contact lenses at all, you might want to consider a premium IOL. Options related to basic IOLs include:

Monovision - Some patients elect to use basic IOLs, but have one eye set for distance and one eye set for near to reduce their need for glasses.  Frequently, this option, called monovision, can result in a feeling of dizziness or imbalance.  This is not a good idea unless the patient has proven that they can successfully wear contact lenses in a similar fashion. 

Aspheric IOLs” are designed to reduce spherical aberration and provide quicker reaction times when driving in addition to other optical benefits. They can also be used in a monovision fashion.

The Cost of Premium IOLs

Dr. Mills charges $1,500 per eye for premium IOLs. This includes astigmatism incisions or LASIK procedures needed to give you the best vision possible. Other practices in the Pensacola area may charge you extra for these additional procedures. We do not, and this approach can save you more than $3,000.

Mills Eye + Facial Surgery charges an upgrade fee for premium lenses due to the additional exams, precise customized measurements, and the special lab processes used to create these highly advanced lenses.

If you are interested in experiencing the many benefits of premium IOLs, we will patiently answer your questions and help you understand what you can expect to pay. Financing is available to help make it affordable to reach your goals. Our Pensacola practice is glad to help you place the care you want within your reach!

"Without Hesitation I Would Recommend Mills"

1

Gerald Hoover

2022

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Without hesitation I would recommend Mills Eye to all my family and friends, and if asked by a stranger, Mills Eye would be my “Go to” eye doctor. He and his entire staff were friendly, courteous and answered those questions asked in clear understandable manner. And, as a senior, I was shown patience and consideration by not being rushed out of the testing room when they were complete.

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1

Margaret Lindsey

2022

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They care about all their patients and are all very nice and understanding about my eye problems . I would tell everyone if They need an ophthalmologist they should try Dr. Mayes and Dr. Mills.

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David M. Mills, MD, FACS, and Wes Mayes, OD

Mills Eye + Facial Surgery

Mills Eye + Facial Surgery is a premier oculoplastic practice offering advanced surgical options and effective, non-invasive cosmetic treatments. Our surgeon, David M. Mills, MD, FACS, has won several prestigious awards and is affiliated with various organizations: 

  • American Board of Ophthalmology
  • American Society of Ophthalmic Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
  • American Academy of Cosmetic Surgery
  • American Academy of Facial Plastic and Reconstructive Surgery
  • American College of Surgeons

Together with Wes Mayes, OD, Dr. Mills is proud to provide state-of-the-art ophthalmology and optometry to the Pensacola community. To discuss your goals with our doctors, request an appointment online or call us at (850) 266-7500.

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Pensacola Office

9050 University Pkwy
Pensacola, FL 32514

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