Cataract surgery is a procedure that helps restore clarity to your vision by replacing cloudy eye lenses with artificial lens implants. Cataracts may be caused by aging, eye injury, genetic factors, and health conditions such as diabetes. Having insight into each aspect of this procedure helps you make informed decisions about your eye health. Here are some questions to ask your eye doctor:
Is Cataract Surgery Right for Me?
A positive cataract diagnosis doesn’t always warrant surgery. Cataracts typically develop gradually and may not significantly affect your vision or daily life in the early stages. Speak with your doctor to determine whether your current condition needs immediate cataract removal or can be managed with prescription glasses or contact lenses. If the condition makes it hard for you to perform daily activities such as reading, driving, working, and cooking, your eye doctor is more likely to recommend cataract surgery.
Other factors that determine whether you are fit for surgery include overall body and eye health. You must be healthy enough to undergo a cataract procedure. If you have diabetes or other pre-existing conditions, they must be properly managed to qualify for surgery. When reviewing eye health, the retina and optic nerves need to be relatively healthy to support vision restoration.
What Are My Lens Options?
During a cataract procedure, your cloudy natural lens is replaced with an artificial lens called an Intraocular Lens (IOL). There are different types of IOLs to choose from depending on your vision needs and lifestyle preferences. Your doctor will help you choose a lens that suits your occupation, daily activities, hobbies, and your preference for prescription-free vision. Common lens options include:
- Standard monofocal lenses: These are designed to improve vision at a set distance, whether far, middle, or near. People who choose monofocal lens implants usually require glasses after surgery to achieve a full range of vision.
- Lifestyle lenses: These are premium lens options designed to provide an increased range of vision, helping reduce your dependence on glasses. Multifocal lenses can improve vision at near, intermediate, and far distances, while toric lenses treat astigmatism.
What Happens During Surgery?
Knowing what to expect during cataract surgery can help ease any concerns. During the procedure, you’ll be given a mild sedative to numb your eye. To dilate your pupil and prevent irritation, specialists use special eye drops. The surgeon then makes a tiny incision in the cornea and uses ultrasound waves to break the lens material and gently remove the cataract. After this, doctors place a customized IOL in the lens capsule to allow unobstructed light to move through the eye and achieve optimal focus. The surgery typically takes about half an hour, and you remain awake as your surgeon talks you through the steps.
How Soon After Surgery Will I See Clearly?
While some patients notice clearer vision a few hours after surgery, full recovery may take weeks. For a smooth recovery, follow your doctor’s guidelines and prescriptions. They often prescribe antibiotics, anti-inflammatory medications, and lubricating eye drops to help reduce infection, swelling, irritation, and dryness. Your doctor may also warn against exercising or lifting heavy objects to prevent eye strain. Some discomfort in your eyes is typical during recovery, but if symptoms persist, talk to your doctor.
Consult a Cataract Surgery Specialist
While cataract surgery helps restore vision impaired by cataracts, it’s necessary to understand what the procedure entails before proceeding. Asking the right questions gives you a clear understanding of the process and benefits, allowing you to make better decisions about your vision. Contact a reputable eye clinic, book an appointment, and begin your journey towards better vision today.