How Cataract Surgery Is Performed

If you are having problems with your eyes, you owe it to yourself to explore every option that is available. Cataracts are cloudiness that affects the crystalline lens of your eye and are often related to age. Results of cataracts are increased near-sightedness and eventual vision loss and blinding if left untreated. While in the past treatment of cataracts were very limited, today cataract surgery is extremely advanced and very effective. Well over 90 percent of cataract surgeries are successful in restoring vision back to a usable level and most people have a quick post operation recovery afterwards.

There are several different types of cataract surgery to be aware of, if you are thinking about having this procedure done. Phacoemulsifcation, known as phaco, is the most preferred method in almost all cases. A titanium or steel tip that vibrates at an ultrasonic frequency is used to emulsify the lens material, and sometimes a second instrument is used to further crack the nucleus of the cataract apart.

Afterwards, a irrigation probe is used to pull out the remaining material. More invasive is a typical extracapsular cataract extraction, where the crystalline lens of the eye is removed through an incision made in the cornea or scelera. Although stitches are usually required afterward, this is the preferred and recommended method for people who have very hard cataracts where the emulsification process used in phaco would be less effective.

Afterwards, the lens that was affected by the cataract is usually replaced with a lens made from silicone or acrylic. The new lens is implanted directly into the eye through an incision. The insertion of a new artificial lens is necessary in both types of cataract surgery mentioned above, as the lens is usually traumatized by the removal of the cataract.

To see if you are a candidate for cataract surgery, you should be aware that a eye examination by an eye surgeon is necessary. There are a few things that contribute to loss vision and though cataracts are often an issue, they are by no means the only cause of vision loss. Only thorough testing by a trained professional will tell you if the issue concerns cataracts.

Most cataract surgeries are performed under a local anesthetic, and as the patient, barring complications, is allowed to go home following the surgery, cataract surgery is considered outpatient surgery. A eye patch may be suggested for a few hours, but the only real aftercare needed is the use of eye drops to bring down any irritation and inflammation, and antibiotics to find off infections.