Did you know over 3 million cataract surgeries are performed annually in the United States? Cataract surgery is a safe and effective solution for restoring clarity and improving the quality of life of millions of people suffering from cataracts.
If you are considering cataract surgery for hazy and blurry vision, this article is for you. Here’s more on the entire cataract surgery experience, from initial consultations to post-operative care, so that you can feel prepared and confident on your journey to clearer vision.
What is a Cataract?
Cataract is a common ophthalmic condition that occurs when the natural lens of the eye becomes clouded, resulting in blurry or dim vision. This can make it difficult to perform daily activities such as reading, driving, or even recognizing faces.
Cataracts are commonly associated with aging, but they can also be caused by factors such as genetics, injury, or certain medical conditions.
Preparing for the Procedure
Once you’ve decided to undergo cataract eye surgery, the first step is to schedule a consultation with an ophthalmologist or an eye surgeon. During this visit, the surgeon will evaluate your eye health, perform various tests, and discuss your medical history to determine the best course of action.
You can expect your ophthalmologist to perform a painless ultrasound to determine the size and shape of your eye as well as the right type of lens implant, called intraocular lens.
Intraocular lens (IOL) has many types: fixed-focus monofocal, accommodating-focus monofocal, multifocal, and astigmatism correction lens. Your ophthalmologist will discuss the benefits and risks of each type with you to determine the best IOL for you.
They will also provide you with detailed instructions on how to prepare for the procedure, which may include avoiding certain medications or fasting at least 12 hours before surgery. You will also be advised to take antibiotic eye drops one or two days before surgery.
The Surgical Process
The cataract eye surgery procedure itself is typically performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you can return home the same day. The surgeon will administer local anesthesia to numb the eye, ensuring a painless experience throughout the surgery. In some cases, mild sedation may also be provided to help you relax.
The surgical methods to remove blurry lenses include:
Phacoemulsification: Breaking Up the Cataract
Phacoemulsification is the most common type of cataract surgery performed today. During this procedure, the surgeon makes a tiny incision in the cornea and uses an ultrasound probe to break up the cataract into small fragments. The fragmented cataract is then gently suctioned out of the eye, leaving the lens capsule intact.
Extracapsular Cataract Extraction: Removing the Lens in One Piece
In some cases, extracapsular cataract extraction may be necessary. This approach involves creating a larger incision in the cornea to remove the entire lens in one piece. This method is typically used when the cataract is too dense or difficult to break up using phacoemulsification.
After the cataract is removed, the surgeon implants an artificial lens known as an intraocular lens (IOL) into the empty lens capsule. This IOL helps to restore clear vision and can be customized to address specific vision needs such as nearsightedness or astigmatism. The IOL remains in place permanently and requires no additional care.
After the Procedure
After the surgery, you will be monitored for 15 to 30 minutes and then allowed to go home. Your vision may look blurry, but this is normal. You may also experience some temporary side effects, such as a gritty feeling in your eyes, red or bloodshot eyes, and watery eyes.
To ensure a successful outcome, it’s important to follow your surgeon’s post-operative instructions diligently. This may include using prescribed eye drops, wearing protective eyewear, and avoiding activities that could strain your eyes, such as heavy lifting or rubbing them vigorously.
During the recovery period, attending follow-up appointments with your surgeon is crucial. These visits allow the surgeon to monitor your healing progress and address any concerns that may arise. It’s important to note that each individual’s recovery timeline may vary, but most patients can expect significant improvement in their vision within a few weeks.
Cataract Eye Surgery in Miramar, FL
Cataract surgery is a common and safe procedure, but it’s natural to feel nervous before and after the surgery. Following your doctor’s instructions about pre-op preparation, post-op care, and medication will help ensure a successful outcome.
At Miramar Eye Institute in Miramar, Florida, our highly trained and skilled cataract surgeon, Dr. Kenneth O. Karp, has been performing simple to complex cataract surgeries in South Florida since 1999. At our eye clinic, we offer bladeless treatment for cataracts with advanced surgical techniques using LenSx® femtosecond laser.
If you would like to schedule a consultation with our ophthalmologist, contact us today at (954) 437-4316 or fill out our online appointment request form. We look forward to serving you!