The cataracts are the cloudy areas that form on either one or both the lens of your eyes. The lenses are located behind the iris, helping in improving the eye’s focus light. As the cataracts develop over time, they blur your vision, making it hazy and colorless. If not treated on time, it gets worse with time. If your vision is getting bad or you are having trouble driving, reading, or doing everyday activities then only cataract surgery can fix it. During this surgery, the surgeon removes the lens from your eye and replaces it with an artificial lens, which is called the intraocular lens (IOL). These lenses are made from plastic, acrylic, or silicone. There are different kinds of IOL (intraocular lens), and your doctor will suggest which one is the best for you. In this post, we will dive deep into the details of cataract surgery and everything you should know about it.
Types of Cataract Surgery
Each of the cataract surgery types is different from others and has its own set of benefits.
- Phacoemulsification:
It is one of the most common methods of cataract treatment. During the surgery, a small incision (cut) is made in the cornea, through which a tiny device is entered which breaks up the cloudy lens into small pieces. It is then removed and replaced with the intraocular lens (IOL). Among it’s many benefits is the minimum invasive approach and it’s consistent result.
- Extracapsular Surgery:
However, it is not the most common type of cataract surgery, as it needs a larger cut to remove the lens without breaking it into pieces. This procedure is used in case the cataract condition is in the advanced stage. The healing time of this surgery is longer as compared to the phacoemulsification one.
- Laser- Assisted Cataract Surgery:
It is an advanced approach that uses a femtosecond to make precise cuts for the corneal incisions and correct lower amounts of astigmatism and fragments of the lens. It is a highly accurate technology which reduces the chances of complications.
Who Should Have Cataract Surgery?
Many people are suffering from serious eye issues but this does not mean that you have to get cataract surgery right away. Some people may just see fine by wearing glasses. These are the signs that you will notice if the cataract grows and you really need a surgery.
- You have a blurred vision.
- Colors appear faded
- You have difficulty seeing at night
- Your eyes have become sensitive to light
- You have double vision in your affected eye
- Your glass power or contact lenses need frequent changes.
Cataract Surgery Preparation
For the cataract surgery preparation, you need to first go for a pre-operative assessment at an eye- clinic. The healthcare team will carry out some tests to check your vision. It will help them decide which artificial lens is best for them. It will help you assess your risks for complications after surgery. If you are unsure of anything, don’t be afraid to ask. If you go ahead with the operations, you will need to sign a consent form. So, it is important to ensure that you are fully informed. Also, follow these steps:
- Stop wearing contact lenses.
- Do not take certain medications till after the surgery
- The surgeon tells you not to eat for 12 hours after the surgery
- You may need to arrange for a driver to take you home after surgery
Final Words
The cataract can cause a major problem blurring your vision, and interrupting your daily life activities like driving or just reading a book. Surgery can help clear your vision. However, you need to have a reliable doctor, whom you can trust and go through with the procedure. ‘Drishti Eye Hospital’ offers a complete range of sophisticated eye care services. Their advancement in the field of medical treatment can meet international standards and can lead to consistent improvement in patient care at affordable prices.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Is Cataract Surgery Painful?
It is not painful as it is performed under the impact of local anesthesia and postoperative care which includes prescribed medications to manage the mild discomfort the patient may go through.
- Can Cataract Eye Surgery Can be Performed At Both Eyes in the Same Time?
Yes, cataract eye surgery can be performed in both the eyes at the same time. But it is suggested to get it done on different days to minimize complications and quick recovery.
- What is the Charge of Getting Cataract Surgery?
The charge of each surgeon may vary for the operation based on their technologies, expertise- expertise of the surgeon, and the location of the hospital.
