Cataract surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure, and
is a brief procedure. After the cataract surgery, patients can go home to rest
in comfort, and follow their doctor's instructions.
Currently, there is no medical treatment to reverse or prevent
the development of cataracts. Once they form, there is only one way to achieve
clear vision again, and that is to physically remove the cataract from inside
the eye and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
There
have been many advances in cataract surgery techniques and IOL technology in
recent years. With over one million cataract surgery procedures performed each
year many patients now experience a quality of vision that is even better than
before they developed cataracts.
Your
cataracts will be removed with an advanced technique called
phacoemulsification, or small-incision cataract surgery. After the eye is
completely numbed, a self-sealing incision is made in the sclera (white part of
the eye), or in the clear cornea (just about the area where the cornea meets
the sclera).
The
cataract is then broken in microscopic particles using high-energy sound waves,
and gently suctioned from the eye. Then, to compensate for the removal of eye's
natural lens, an intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted into the "capsular bag",
the same thin tissue that held your natural lens. Once the lens is positioned,
the eye remains tightly sealed by the natural outward pressure within your
eye.
Many
patients are able to see with clear vision much sooner after the surgery. In
most cases, it is now possible to return to daily activities, such as driving
and reading, almost immediately.
After
your surgery, you will notice a gradual improvement in your comfort and vision.
Occasionally, a sensation of grittiness, or 'sand in the eye' is mentioned and
this will go away and Tylenol will help. Please enjoy something to eat and take
a nap when you get home. Your vision will fluctuate. You may shampoo or shower,
but do not get soap or water in your eye. You may watch television, use the
computer, or read, as long as it is comfortable for you. Do not drive, drink
alcohol, or make important decisions the day of surgery. |