Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is a type of surgical procedure used to treat or prevent vision problems caused by cataracts. Cataracts are responsible for cloudy vision and can develop many years after birth or as a result of medical conditions, such as diabetes. During this surgical procedure, your ophthalmologist removes the natural lens of the eye and replaces it with an artificial lens. Depending on the patient's specific vision needs, some lens completely replace the original lens and others partially cover it.

What is the Procedure of Cataract Surgery?

Before the procedure begins, anesthesia is provided and the area is cleansed to reduce the risk of infection. The patient then lays in the operating table in a comfortable position while the doctor prepares the surgical instruments.

The surgery begins with a tiny incision made in the eye.
A small circular probe is inserted into the eye, which emits ultrasonic waves to break up the cataract.
The fragments of the cataract are vacuumed out with a small suction tube.
An artificial lens is carefully inserted into the eye.
The incision is closed with tiny stitches.

The patient's eye is then bandaged and a protective shield is placed over it. Depending on the patient's individual situation, the eye may require one or two days of rest. Patients may experience some mild discomfort during the first couple of days after surgery. Generally, it's recommended to keep the operated eye as still as possible for two weeks after the procedure. During that period, it's essential to wear protective eyewear and dark sunglasses while outdoors.

Benefits of Cataract Surgery

Improved vision. This is the primary benefit of cataract surgery. A majority of patients experience a significant improvement in their vision after the operation.
Reduction in the risk of blindness. Not only can cataract surgery improve vision it can also protect the affected eye from severe complications that could lead to blindness.
Prevented damage from underlying medical conditions. Cataracts can worsen existing medical conditions such as glaucoma and can also lead to secondary eye diseases such as retinal detachment.

Conclusion

Cataract surgery is an effective procedure to restore vision and prevent painful symptoms from developing. If left untreated, cataracts will eventually cause blurred vision and other vision-related problems. While cataracts can be treated with eyeglasses and medications, cataract surgery is usually needed for more severe cases. If you or someone you know is suffering from cataracts, you should consider talking to your ophthalmologist or contact a vision specialist about the possibility of cataract surgery.