
Insight into Cataract Surgery: What to Expect and How it Works
Before technological developments in eyecare, blurred vision from cataracts that caused impediment to everyday life was an inevitable burden for millions of people. With breakthroughs in cataract surgery, cloudy vision is restored to clear eyesight that is just as good if not better than before the onset and gradual progression of cataracts. Intraocular lens implants allow patients to see fine print, at a distance, and at night bringing their world back onto focus and clarity.
Cataract surgery is a common and highly successful surgery. Before the procedure, your ophthalmologist will conduct a pre-operative comprehensive eye examination to assess the severity of the cataract as well as the corneal measurement to calculate the lens implant power. Questions about family and medical history will be discussed exploring all optical errors and any current medications taken. Refractive errors and intraocular pressure will be measured as well. If the cataract has reached an advanced stage of development hindering the accuracy of measurement, alternatively a sonographic examination will be performed to evaluate the farthest part of the eyeball.
Surgery begins with administering anesthetic eye drops in the eye with the cataract; if both eyes are affected by cataracts, only one eye will receive surgery and the other will be scheduled for another day. The eye will be numbed and the patient will remain awake during the procedure. Cataract surgery will be performed using traditional phacoemulsification or laser-assisted techniques. Both methods are highly effective but will depend upon the surgeon’s preference and the details discussed at the pre-operative appointment. During surgery, the clouded lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens. IOLs are composed of different materials and come in different focusing powers just like prescription eyeglasses and contact lenses. Factors such as visual needs and lifestyle factors will determine which type of IOL will be implanted. Following surgery, vision is noticeably improved within a day although it can take weeks to fully heal. Post-surgery, patients are advised to follow specific care instructions, including using prescribed eye drops, avoiding strenuous activities and attending follow-up appointments. Most patients experience a smooth recovery process, with vision gradually stabilizing and improving.
For more insight into cataract surgery, what to expect and how it works, visit WEBSITE. To have your eyes evaluated for cataracts call Pennachio Eye at 325-227-1999.