Overview and Purpose

Having cataracts can make life extremely difficult. If you experience cloudy vision as if constantly looking through a blurry window, cataract surgery maybe the only solution. Your road to cataract free vision lies ahead. Book an appointment now!

OVERVIEW OF CATARACT SURGERY AND WHY IS IT DONE?

The lens on the outermost part of your eyes is responsible for clear vision. However, in some cases such as uncontrolled diabetes and physiological aging, the lens can become cloudy, resulting in impaired vision.

The cataract extraction surgery is a simple outpatient procedure that usually takes less than an hour. During the surgery, your ophthalmologist or eye doctor will replace the cloudy lens with an artificial lens.

Here are the steps involved in the procedure:

  • Your eye doctor will numb the surface of your eye with eye drops.
  • A small incision will be made on the outer surface of your eye.
  • A tiny probe will be inserted to break down and remove the cataract.
  • An artificial lens will be placed.
  • You will be asked to rest in the waiting room for 30 minutes until the numbness wears off.
  • Stitches are not usually required, and you can go home immediately.

HOW TO CHOOSE THE BEST LENS FOR YOUR SURGERY?

This is a list of different types of lenses used for cataract surgery. Depending on your particular lifestyle you are at liberty to choose one of the following lenses.

  1. Standard Monofocal Lens: This type of lens allows you to see clearly, but only at one distance. For instance, if you choose to see farther objects, you will need to use glasses to see closer objects and vice versa.
  2. Multifocal Lens: A multifocal lens replacement helps to enhance your vision at multiple distances. For instance, if you need to read and look at something simultaneously, this lens is the best option.
  3. Monovision: This option involves inserting a lens for one distance (e.g., to see closer objects) in the left eye and another lens for faraway objects in the right eye. This allows you to see things clearly at varying distances without needing reading glasses.
  4. Toric Lens: Toric lenses are used if you suffer from astigmatism. These individuals typically use cylindrical power prescription glasses to see clearly every day.

Symptoms and Causes

As you age, the risk for cataract increases, and it can cause blurry vision as early as your 50s. Here are some early signs to watch out for:

  • Difficulty seeing in low light conditions
  • Increased sensitivity to bright lights
  • Seeing a ring-like structure around lights
  • Double vision
  • Faded colors
  • Frequent changes in the strength of your prescription if you already wear glasses.

DO I NEED TO GET A CATARACT SURGERY? ARE THERE OTHER OPTIONS?

If you experience blurry vision which affects your daily routine like reading or driving, your eye doctor may suggest cataract surgery. Unfortunately, there are no known non-surgical alternatives to remove cataracts from the eye at present. Delaying the surgery may increase the risk, depending on the type and severity of the cataract.

TYPES OF CATARACT SURGERY

There are two main types of cataract surgeries that are performed based on the extent of the cataract. These types are:

1. Phacoemulsification (Phaco Cataract Surgery)

In phaco cataract surgery, a micro incision is made using a blade. Then, an ultrasonic probe is used to emulsify the cataract. Lastly, an artificial lens is inserted.

Pros
  • Less time consuming
  • Affordable
Cons
  • Higher risk for complications
2. Laser-Assisted Cataract Eye Surgery (LACS)
  • Incision is made using a laser
  • Small bubbles are created using the laser to break the cataract
  • Artificial lens is inserted.
Pros
  • Greater precision and accuracy
  • More predictable vision outcome
  • Suitable for all stages ranging from early to more mature cases
Cons
  • Higher risk for complications

PREOPERATIVE ASSESSMENT AND LABORATORY INVESTIGATIONS

Before surgery, the following assessments and investigations are conducted: blood pressure check, urine analysis, blood glucose levels, chest X-ray, electrocardiogram, and serum urea and creatinine tests.

FACILITIES REQUIRED

Your ophthalmologist will be equipped with an ultrasonography machine, a portable operating microscope, an eye pressure reducer, and an electric cautery for the surgery.

THE ULTIMATE 10 STEP GUIDE - PREPARING FOR CATARACT SURGERY

  1. Consult a reliable and experienced ophthalmologist.
  2. Understand the different surgical options available to you.
  3. Weigh the risks versus benefits.
  4. The doctor will perform a vision test to determine the stage of your cataract.
  5. Do not eat anything after midnight on the night before the surgery.
  6. Avoid wearing contact lenses for 1-2 weeks before the date of the cataract surgery procedure.
  7. Arrange for someone to drive you home after the procedure.
  8. Wash your hair the day before surgery as you will be advised to avoid washing it for the following few days.
  9. Modify or stop taking medications related to urinary tract infection or high blood pressure as per your surgeon's advice.
  10. Use prescribed eye drops for 3 days before the operation as indicated by your ophthalmologist.

SUCCESS RATE, RISKS AND RECOVERY

With cataract surgery, 95% of patients tend to experience an improvement in their vision. The chances of encountering any problems during or after the procedure are considerably low, especially when the operation is being carried out by an experienced ophthalmologist. This surgery is generally considered safe and routine. However, there are a few possible complications, which are listed below:

  • Persistent pain
  • Unexplained swelling
  • Infection
  • Blurry vision
  • Double vision
  • Slipping or displacement of the artificial lens
  • Visual disturbances such as shadows or glares

WILL MY CATARACTS COME BACK AFTER SURGERY?

Answer : No, cataracts cannot come back after surgery because an artificial lens is placed during the surgery.

TIPS TO AVOID COMPLICATIONS OF CATARACT SURGERY

  1. Choose an experienced surgeon: Do thorough research and look for an ophthalmologist who has performed multiple cataract surgeries and has a good reputation.
  2. Follow pre-operative instructions: The days before the surgery are just as important as the day of and the day after surgery. Follow these instructions carefully to reduce the risk of complications.
  3. Get a comprehensive eye exam: It is important to determine the extent of the cataract and any other underlying associated eye conditions.
  4. Follow cataract surgery aftercare instructions: Precautions after cataract surgery ensure a successful operation which effectively reduces the recovery time and paves the path to a blur-free life.

TIPS AND TRICKS FOR FASTER RECOVERY

Follow these post operative instructions to avoid any complications of cataract surgery.

  1. Rest period - Although you can leave the hospital right after the surgery, it is advisable to take it easy and avoid strenuous tasks for the first two weeks to allow for proper healing.
  2. Wear your eye shield - It is crucial to protect your eyes with the eye shield during a shower, while going outside, and at night for the initial recovery period.
  3. Avoid rubbing your eyes - It's essential to avoid rubbing your eyes post-surgery to prevent any complications that could lead to prolonged recovery time.
  4. Eye drops - Using prescribed eye drops for lubrication and healing is a crucial part of cataract surgery aftercare.
  5. Limit your screen time - It's important to avoid unnecessary strain on your eyes after surgery to ensure a successful recovery and healing process.

Top Surgeons for Cataract Surgery

Top Hospitals for Cataract Surgery