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CATARACT SURGERY
Cataract surgery is a procedure used to remove the eye’s natural lens when it becomes cloudy. The lens helps focus light entering the eye so you can see clearly. A healthy lens is transparent, but a cataract causes it to become cloudy, making vision appear blurred, dim, or faded. Many people describe it as looking through a foggy window or a dirty windshield.
​The only effective treatment for a cataract is surgery. An ophthalmologist may suggest cataract surgery when the cataract begins interfering with everyday activities, such as reading, driving, or other important tasks.
During the procedure, the clouded natural lens is taken out and replaced with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). Your ophthalmologist will explain the different IOL options and help determine which one is best for you.
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BEFORE CATARACT SURGERY
Before surgery, your ophthalmologist will perform measurements of your eye to determine the correct focusing strength for your IOL. You will also discuss any medications you currently take. In some cases, your doctor may advise you to temporarily stop taking certain medications before the procedure. You may also be given prescription eye drops to use before surgery. These drops help lower the risk of infection and decrease inflammation both during and after the operation.
THE DAY OF SURGERY
Your ophthalmologist may instruct you not to eat solid foods for at least six hours before your procedure. Cataract surgery is usually performed at an outpatient surgical center or a hospital. The following steps typically occur:
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Your eye will be numbed using either anesthetic eye drops or an injection around the eye. Medication may also be provided to help you remain calm and comfortable.
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You will stay awake throughout the surgery. Although you may notice lights or movement, you will not be able to see the surgical procedure itself.
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The surgeon will create very small openings near the edge of the cornea to access the cloudy lens.
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Using specialized instruments, the cataract-affected lens will be broken into small pieces and removed from the eye.
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The new artificial lens will then be carefully placed into the eye.
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In most cases, stitches are not necessary because the tiny incisions seal naturally as they heal.
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A protective shield will be placed over your eye to help prevent injury during recovery.
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After surgery, you will remain in a recovery area for approximately 15 to 30 minutes before being discharged to go home.
AFTER SURGERY (DAYS OR WEEKS)
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You may need to continue using prescribed eye drops after surgery. Follow your doctor’s instructions carefully.
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Keep soap, water, and other irritants from getting directly into the eye.
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Avoid touching, rubbing, or putting pressure on your eye.
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Your ophthalmologist may recommend wearing glasses or a protective shield to safeguard the eye during healing.
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You will likely need to wear an eye shield while sleeping.
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Your doctor will explain when it is safe to resume activities such as exercising, driving, and returning to your normal routine.
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WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF CATARACT SURGERY?
Like all surgical procedures, cataract surgery carries certain risks and potential complications. These may include:
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Infection inside the eye
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Bleeding within the eye
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Persistent swelling in the front or interior of the eye
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Swelling of the retina, which is the light-sensitive tissue at the back of the eye
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Retinal detachment, where the retina separates from the back of the eye
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Injury to other structures within the eye
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Visual disturbances such as halos, glare, or dark spots
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Eye pain that does not improve with standard pain medication
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Partial or complete loss of vision
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Movement or displacement of the intraocular lens implant
Your vision may also become cloudy again weeks, months, or even years after surgery. This condition is relatively common and can often be treated with a laser procedure called a posterior capsulotomy, which helps restore clear vision. Your ophthalmologist will discuss the advantages and potential risks of cataract surgery before the procedure.
Cataract surgery cannot restore vision that has been lost due to other eye diseases, including macular degeneration, glaucoma, or diabetic retinopathy.
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