Cataracts are a common eye condition that affects more than half of Americans over the age of 65. Fortunately, cataracts can be surgically treated by removing the clouded lens of the eye and replacing it with a clear, artificial lens.
What are the symptoms and how and how do I know if I need surgery?
Cataracts may not be noticeable in their earliest stages, but as they progress, vision will become more blurred and reduced. Symptoms of cataracts also include brown-tinted vision, halos around objects, poor night vision, double vision, glare around lights and colors that appear faded. Cataract surgery may be recommended when you are no longer able to see well enough to perform daily activities or if cataracts interfere with treatment for another eye problem, such as macular degeneration (loss of central vision) or diabetic retinopathy (damage to the retina caused by complications of diabetes). You do not have to make the decision to have cataract surgery immediately. Delaying the procedure typically will not result in long-term damage to the eye or make the operation more complicated.
What can I expect during the procedure?
Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed procedures in the United States. Approximately 90 percent of people who undergo the operation report an improvement in their vision later2. Surgery is done one eye at a time if cataracts are in both eyes, usually about one to two months apart to give the first eye time to heal.
Cataract surgery lasts about one hour and is typically performed on an outpatient basis. Prior to the procedure, eye drops are placed in the eye to dilate the pupil and a local anesthetic is used to numb the area around the eye. A sedative may be given to help you relax. There are two types of cataract surgery, phacoemulsification and extracapsular surgery.
What is phacoemulsification?
Phacoemulsification involves making a small incision on the side of the cornea. A tiny ultrasound probe is then inserted into the eye that emits ultrasound waves to break up the lens, the fragments of which are removed by suction. A less often performed operation called extracapsular surgery requires making a longer incision on the side of the cornea and removing the hard center of the lens in one piece. In both procedures, the very back of the lens is left in place to help position the new artificial lens. The implant, called an intraocular lens, is made of acrylic, plastic or silicone. It becomes a permanent part of the eye and will not require additional care. You will not be able to feel or see the new lens.
How is the recovery?
Although you can expect your vision to start improving within a few days after surgery, complete recovery usually takes about eight weeks. You may feel some itching and mild discomfort for a few days after the procedure, but it is important to avoid rubbing or pressing on your eye. You may use eyedrops to prevent infection, lessen inflammation and control eye pressure.
Ask the Doctor is provided by Lakewood Regional Medical Center. For a referral to a doctor or for information about free community events, please call 1-800-813-4345 or go to lakewoodregional.com
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