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Cataracts

Have you noticed that your vision has gotten cloudy? Is obstructed vision making it difficult to complete daily tasks? Cataract surgery can remove the cloudiness and restore sharp, clear vision. Walter Choate, OD, in Nashville, TN, is a board-certified optometrist who can create your cataract treatment plan to restore your vision.

Want Clear Vision? Contact Choate Eye Today

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Dr. Choate can create a customized cataract treatment plan to restore your vision. He works with the top eye surgeons in Nashville to give you back sharp, clear vision through advanced cataract surgery. Contact our Goodlettsville, TN, optometrist's office today to request your cataract surgery consultation.

What Is a Cataract? Clouding of Your Natural Lens

We have a clear, natural lens in each eye behind the iris (the colored portion of our eyes). This natural lens focuses light on our retina, which helps our brain create crystal clear, sharp images and allows us to see the world around us.

As we age, tissues within the lens of the eye can break down and form cloudy clumps that diffuse and stop light from reaching your retina. This clump is a cataract, and it can cause serious vision problems as it grows.

Although prescription eyeglasses or sunglasses can help you see better for a while, Dr. Choate may suggest cataract surgery and the implantation of an artificial lens (IOL) to restore sharp vision.

Cataracts Can Cause Total Vision Loss

An estimated 13.4 million people lost their vision due to untreated cataracts in 2020

*According to Lancet Global Health

Take Our "Symptoms of Cataracts" Quiz

Are you experiencing any of these symptoms? They can make everyday tasks like reading, walking, or driving difficult or potentially dangerous to you and others.

  • Foggy or cloudy vision 
  • Increased sensitivity to light or glare
  • Poor night vision
  • Dull, faded colors
  • Dim or blurry vision
  • Light halos
  • Frequently needing stronger eyeglass or contact lens prescriptions
  • Double vision

If you answered "yes" to any of these symptoms, a cataract may have formed on the lens in one or both of your eyes. Contact Dr. Choate at his high-end eye care practice in Goodlettsville, TN, for a thorough cataract exam today. We're here to help you manage or resolve these complications.

Experiencing Cloudy Vision? Contact Dr. Choate for a Cataract Consultation

Dr. Choate is a vastly experienced, board-certified Nashville, TN, optometrist with specialized training in diagnosing, treating, and managing eye diseases such as cataracts. His state-of-the-art practice features the latest diagnostic tools in the eye care industry, meaning he can detect a cataract early and suggest treatment options before it seriously affects your vision.

If you notice symptoms like cloudy vision, contact us online or by phone to schedule a comprehensive exam with Dr. Choate. Should the cause be a cataract, Dr. Choate collaborates with the best ophthalmologists and eye surgeons in Nashville to restore sharp vision through cataract surgery and IOL transplants. Dr. Choate welcomes patients from throughout Nashville, Goodlettsville, and Hendersonville, TN. 

Call to Schedule Your Cataract Consultation

(615) 851-7575

Dr. Choate and team
Walter Choate, OD, and our team

Some of Our Many 5-Star Reviews

1

Tracy Kyle

Goodlettsville, TN

2024

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Dr. Choate is a very thorough optometrist. He has taken care of my eyes for more than 25 years. His staff is top notch, also.

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1

Sandra Dunning (Sandi)

Goodlettsville, TN

2024

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I have been seeing Dr. Choate’s office for years and truly feel he has saved my vision. The staff are so helpful and professional. I refer everyone I know to them. You will be very happy with your experience and their knowledge.

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What Causes Cataracts? Risk Factors

There are several risk factors for cataracts, and not all are preventable. Coming to our Goodlettsville, TN, practice for routine eye exams is the best way to maintain your eye health and detect early signs of cataracts. Common causes of cataracts include:

Age

One of the main causes of cataracts is age. As we get older, the tissues within our eyes can break down and form a cataract.

Sun Exposure

Prolonged sun exposure without wearing protective eyewear can lead to cataract development.

Injury

An eye injury or previous eye surgeries can lead to cataracts.

General Health

Those who struggle with obesity, diabetes, or high blood pressure are at a higher risk of developing cataracts.

Family History

You are more likely to develop cataracts if the condition runs in your family.

Medications

Certain medications, like steroids, can increase your risk of cataract development.

Habits

Certain habits like smoking or excessive alcohol consumption can increase your risk of developing cataracts.

"Dr. Choate and his staff are exceptional."

1

bob hohimer

Goodlettsville, TN

2024

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My family and I have been longtime patient’s, over 10, and we have always been treated great. If I ever had a problem with products they always made it right with a smile. I would recommend Choate Eye to friends and family without hesitation.

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1

P Johnson

Goodlettsville, TN

2024

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Superior eyecare. Seriously. Have years of experience with different optometrists (they were all good), so recognize “superior” qualifications. Husband has VERY bad vision, and associated issues. He was impressed with my account of my experience with Choate, so he went to see them … wow…I am so grateful we stumbled onto Choate….my husband is actually getting help with his vision issues.

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A Look at the Cataract Surgery Procedure

After a thorough exam at his respected eye care practice in Nashville, TN, Dr. Choate will explain the cataract surgery to you in detail and discuss the full range of IOL options available. The procedure, as performed by a trusted Nashville area eye surgeon, should go as follows:

How Are Cataracts Diagnosed?

Dr. Choate may use the following techniques to diagnose your condition:

Visual Acuity Test

Visual Acuity Test

Most of our diagnoses start with a simple visual acuity test. This test involves using an eye chart to assess the ability of each eye to focus.

Applanation Tonometry

Applanation Tonometry

High intraocular pressure can result from cataracts or other eye conditions like glaucoma. Applanation tonometry tests the pressure within your eye for any indication of abnormalities.

Slit Lamp Exam

Slit Lamp Exam

Next, Dr. Choate can examine the inner structures of your eye under the magnification of a slit lamp. This test helps the doctor detect abnormalities in your cornea, iris, and lens.

Retinal Exam

Retinal Exam

Dilating eye drops are used to widen your pupils so our doctor has a clear view of the back of your eye. Our doctor will also examine your lens at this time to check for signs of cataracts.

Goodlettsville Patients Thank Our Office Staff

1

Tracy Kyle

Goodlettsville, TN

2024

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Dr. Choate is a very thorough optometrist. He has taken care of my eyes for more than 25 years. His staff is top notch, also.

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1

Gregory Crofton

Goodlettsville, TN

2024

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Excellent service, welcoming environment and a very friendly staff. The best eye doctor!

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Better Vision Care Through Technology Request a Consultation

When you visit our practice, you can expect cutting-edge care. Dr. Choate's role as an FDA investigator for new advancements in the field of vision care allows him to bring the best tools to his Goodlettsville patients. From precise diagnostics to lasers that make the treatment process safer and more predictable, we bring you the best that modern medicine has to offer. No matter what complications you are experiencing, we are here to help. For a high-end experience matched with compassionate care, visit Dr. Choate at our Goodlettsville office:

(615) 851-7575

Cataract Surgery What to Expect

Surgery is the only way to eliminate cataracts and resulting complications. During this outpatient surgery, the clouded natural lens of the eye is removed and replaced by an IOL. Dr. Choate will explain the surgery in detail and discuss the full range of IOL options available. The procedure, as performed by a trusted Nashville area ophthalmologist, should go as follows:

Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure that typically takes under an hour to complete.
Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure that typically takes under an hour to complete.

Numbing

Numbing eye drops will be placed in your eyes by your eye surgeon for your comfort. You may also be given a mild sedative to help you relax.

Incision

Next, your ophthalmologist will use a laser to make a small incision in your cornea. 

Removal

A specialized ultrasound tool will be used to break apart the clouded lens and safely suction out the pieces.

Placement

Finally, the artificial lens that Dr. Choate and you decided upon will be inserted into the incision to replace the removed natural lens.

Follow-Up

You will eventually return to Dr. Choate's practice for a follow-up appointment so he can monitor the healing process.

Tell Me About Surgery Recovery

Full recovery from surgery should occur in about eight weeks, but you should have better vision almost immediately after the lens implantation. Below is what you can expect during your recovery:

Soreness

You might feel some itchiness or soreness for the next few days, but that will fade quickly. 

Eyedrops

Infection risk is low, but prescription eyedrops will be provided for you just in case.

Rest

Just take it easy for a few days. Don't drive until your vision clears, and avoid strenuous activities while your eyes are healing.

Follow-Up

You will come to our Goodlettsville practice for a follow-up exam so Dr. Choate can ensure you're healing properly. You should contact our office if you are experiencing any abnormal symptoms or vision issues.

More Glowing Reviews for Dr. Choate Nashville Recommends Our Optometrist

1

Keith edwards

Goodlettsville, TN

2024

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Very helpful friendly staff and the Doctor is very professional and explains things very well

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1

Robert Leow

Goodlettsville, TN

2024

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Dr Choate is very knowledgeable and his staff is personable/helpful. 10/10 recommend Dr Choate and his practice!

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Dr. Choate and Dr. Colonna

Choate Eye Associates

Choate Eye Associates has been delivering high-quality, compassionate eye care to the Nashville community since 1979. We are affiliated with various leading organizations in the field, including: 

  • American Academy of Optometry
  • American Optometric Association 
  • National Board of Examiners in Optometry 

To schedule a consultation at our practice, call us at (615) 851-7575 or request an appointment online

Contact Us Today

"I am very pleased with the attention I received at Choate Eye Associates. Dr. Choate is very thorough and does a wonderful job of explaining what he is doing and what he is looking for in the exam."
Dianal - Comprehensive Eye Care Patient

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