Cataract Surgery

Overview

Cataract is one of the most common eye problems that is responsible for vision loss and affects people above the age of forty. A cataract is a clouding of the lens in the eye that affects vision. As you age, the proteins in the lens form abnormal clumps that enlarge and impede the sharpness of the image entering the retina, resulting in blurry or fuzzy vision. If your vision is only slightly blurry it can be improved by changing your eyeglass prescription, using brighter lighting, antiglare sunglasses, magnifying lenses or by other visual aids. If these measures do not help and there is no improvement in your vision then Cataract surgery is the only option. Cataract surgery involves the removal of your natural cloudy lens and replacing it with a clear, functional artificial lens implant.

The Procedure

Initially your surgeon will administer special eye drops to dilate your pupils. You will receive a local anesthetic to numb the nerves in and around your eye. Then your surgeon makes a small incision in the cornea and inserts a tiny probing device which emits ultrasound waves to emulsify or break up the cloudy lens. The fragments are liquefied and removed using a miniature suction device. Finally, an artificial lens is inserted through the original incision to replace your clouded lens and restore a clearer vision.

The Symptoms

You may need a Cataract surgery if

• You experience blurry vision, making it difficult to read fine print or road signs
• You experience glare while driving at night
• You experience double vision in one eye
• Your visual impairment progresses to the point that you feel your activities of daily living and enjoyment are impaired

The Eligibility

You are eligible for Cataract surgery if

• You are severely affected with cataracts that are significantly formed and have impaired your vision
• You possess overall good health and free from any eye conditions or health problems that would make Cataract surgery risky
• You are not able to manage with an updated prescription to your glasses or contact lenses
• You have realistic expectations about the treatment process and the outcome

The Risks Involved

Cataract surgery poses risks such as infection, persistent inflammation, swelling, bleeding and changes in eye pressure. There is also a slightly increased risk of retinal detachment, a painless but dangerous condition. In rare cases, the entire lens cannot be removed. In that case a procedure to remove all the fragments is performed at a later date.

The Impact

Cataract surgery usually results in improved vision and a satisfied patient. Your vision will crystallize and become much clearer, colors will appear sharper than they did before, and your night vision will greatly improve. Improved vision immeasurably enhances overall life satisfaction and enjoyment. Cataract surgery is not just the end of clouded vision, it’s the beginning of a bright new outlook!

If your cataracts have progressed to seriously impair your vision and affect your day-to-day activities, then it is best to opt for immediate cataract surgery. Remember, delaying cataract surgery causes long-term damage to the eye and also make surgery more complicated. Why view the world as if through a dirty window or a windshield that needs defrosting – go for a Cataract surgery! Restore your vision and bring the world back into focus! Greater visual independence leads to a more independent, carefree lifestyle!