Understanding Cataract Surgery
What Are Cataracts?
Cataracts are most commonly associated with aging and are rare in individuals under 50. It’s caused when the lens inside of your eye clouds and generates a loss of vision. Most individuals complain of blurred vision and in the most severe cases, a complete deterioration of sight.
Recent studies show that 68.3% of US citizens over 80 have cataracts. An estimated three million surgeries are carried out each year, indicating how common cataract surgery is. There are many techniques involved, but the outcome is better vision and less discomfort. The operation is non-invasive, safe and has quick recovery time.
The Basics
Cataract surgery is usually performed on an outpatient basis, which means there’s no need for an overnight stay. Most people leave the hospital the same day, with minimal discomfort. A high-powered laser is used to break up the cloudy eye lens, and the surgeon will then remove them using suction. Modern techniques mean the procedure can be performed with small incisions, which means your eye will heal faster and there are fewer risks associated with the surgery.
When the process is complete, your surgeon will insert a clear lens in place of the one that has been removed. They will then close the incision and place a protective shield over your eye while you recover from the surgery.
New Laser Techniques
More clinics are turning to new laser techniques in place of more out-dated cataract removal methods. Femtosecond lasers reduce the needs for specialist tools and have recently been approved by the FDA. They also make the procedure a lot quicker for surgeons and are less invasive.
One of the downsides of using lasers is the costs involved. Femtosecond lasers cost between $300,000 and $500,000, which significantly increases how much you’ll spend on your surgery. While lasers are proving beneficial, it’s unknown if they can speed up your recovery time, and you’ll still need to wear protection after the surgery.
Preparing For Surgery
Many people worry about undergoing a cataract procedure, but the specialist will prepare you for the operation. Before your surgery, you’ll have a full eye exam to identify the potential risks and determine if it’s necessary to have the procedure. Your surgeon will explain the process and give you advice about recovery times.
Measurements will be taken to decide on the size and power of your lenses. Some people are happy to wear glasses after their surgery, but others ask for a powerful lens to reduce their need for eyewear. There are many lenses to choose from, and your surgeon will advise you on which is best.
Recovering From Your Surgery
Your surgery will take around 15 minutes, and you’ll be able to leave soon after. Make sure you have someone to drive you home and wait for at least one day until you drive. You should wear your protective eyewear for a week after the surgery, and your doctor will give you eye drops. The operation will affect the sensitivity of your eyes, and you’ll be given sunglasses when you’re out in the sun.
It’s common to suffer from some light irritation and redness after the surgery, but it will disappear within a few days. Be careful you don’t get water in your eye while it’s healing and get plenty of rest and relaxation.