Advanced Cataract Surgery: 3 Common Questions Answered

When it comes to maintaining your health, there is arguably nothing more important than preserving your vision. Cataracts are one of the most prevalent issues to impact society today, with nearly 30 million people expected to develop the condition by the year 2028.

Fortunately, there is a solution to this problem: Advanced cataract surgery. Stick around as we cover some of the most common questions patients have had regarding this long-trusted operation.

1.      How Does Cataract Surgery Work?

There are several stages patients undergo before, during and after cataract surgery. Expect your ophthalmologist to walk you through the following steps:

1. Consultation: If you believe you’re developing signs of cataracts, this is your chance to have them examined and confirmed by a professional. They will decide whether or not surgery is necessary, depending on cataract progression as well as your symptoms.
2. Pre-surgery: Once you’ve arrived at your surgical appointment, you’ll have the chance to go over the final paperwork. Afterward, you’ll receive a surgical gown to dress into before relaxing in your hospital bed. Once your surgeon arrives, they will walk you through their plan and give you the chance to ask any final questions.
3. Anesthesia Application: Once you have been moved into a surgical suite, local anesthesia is administered. You will not be asleep but you will be made very comfortable during the surgery. Surgery usually takes around 15 minutes.
4. Surgery Begins: Through two microscopic incisions, your surgeon will use ultrasound energy to help break up the cataract and remove it from your eye. A new lens will be inserted through that same incision.
5. Recovery: Directly after the surgery, you’ll will be taken to the recovery room. Patients are usually well enough to leave in as little as 30 minutes. Once at home, you will wear a special shield while sleeping to avoid discomfort and inadvertent trauma to the operated eye.
6. Follow-up: The next day, you will revisit your doctor to ensure your recovery is going as expected.

2.      Does it Correct Vision?

Standard cataract surgery will improve vision, however patients will still be required to wear glasses for some or all tasks. Premium astigmatism correcting lenses and multifocal lenses are available at an additional cost, which may help to decrease or even eliminate your dependence on glasses. Not every patient is a candidate for a premium lens – talk to your surgeon about lens options which are right for you.

3.      What Do Cataracts Look Like?

The most common sign of cataracts is blurry vision. More specific signs include difficulty reading at near, glare around headlights while driving at night, and more difficulty reading street signs or the print on TV.  If your vision grows cloudy over time, you may be experiencing symptoms of cataract progression and should speak with a doctor.

Are you considering cataract surgery for yourself or someone you know? Contact Eye Surgeons Associates today to speak with a trusted eye care professional!

References used to write this piece:

https://www.goodeyes.com/cataract/cataract-surgery-questions/

https://www.northfloridavision.com/blog/post/2016/06/30/How-Does-Laser-Cataract-Surgery-Work.aspx

https://www.webmd.com/eye-health/cataracts/ss/slideshow-cataracts 

Author

Eye Surgeons Associates Drs. Meiraj A. Siddiqui, Zuhair H. Peracha, Manal H. Peracha-Riyaz, Eric Zuckerman and Leila Siblani are dedicated to excellence in eye care and service. We utilize the latest treatment methods and procedures, including routine eye care, cataract surgery, glaucoma treatment, retinal disease management, diabetic eye treatment, and eyelid surgery.