Cataracts develop when the eyeโs natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to blurred vision, difficulty seeing in low light, and increased sensitivity to glare. The procedure involves replacing the cloudy lens with an artificial one, restoring clear vision.
Preparing for Surgery
Before surgery, the ophthalmologist conducts a thorough eye examination to determine the severity of the cataract and measure the eye for an intraocular lens (IOL). Patients are advised to stop wearing contact lenses a few days prior and may need to adjust certain medications. Some other precautions also include avoiding heavy meals on the day of the procedure and arranging transportation home.
Types of Cataract Surgery
There are two main types of cataract surgery: phacoemulsification and extracapsular cataract extraction.
- Phacoemulsification: The most common method, using ultrasound waves to break up the cloudy lens before removal.
- Extracapsular Surgery: Used for advanced cataracts where a larger lens fragment needs to be extracted.
Patients additionally choose between standard monofocal lenses, multifocal lenses for improved focus at different distances, or toric lenses for astigmatism correction.
The Day of the Surgery
Patients arrive at the clinic and their eyes are numbed with anesthetic drops. The affected lens is removed through a small incision, and an artificial lens is implanted. Since stitches are rarely needed, the incision heals naturally. Most people experience improved vision within hours or a maximum of a day or two for complete vision to come back.
Duration of the Surgery
The surgery itself is rather quick, usually taking about 20 minutes per eye. However, pre-operative preparation and post-operative monitoring extend the total time at the clinic to a few hours. Since cataract surgery is typically performed one eye at a time, the second eye is scheduled for surgery a few weeks later to let it to heal properly.
Post-surgery Recovery
After surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort, light sensitivity, or they might feel like they have something foreign in their eye. An eye shield is usually provided to prevent accidental rubbing. Rest is recommended for the first few hours, and patients should avoid labor-intensive activities. Your vision is often noticeably better by the next day, although full stabilization can take a few weeks.
Some tips for a better recovery are:
- Use prescribed eye drops as directed.
- Avoid rubbing or pressing on the operated eye.
- Wear sunglasses to protect against bright light.
- Sleep with an eye shield for the first few nights.
- Follow up with the doctor to monitor healing.
Most patients can return to light activities within 24โ48 hours. However, strenuous physical activities, including heavy lifting, should be avoided for at least two weeks. Driving is typically safe after a few days, provided that your vision is stable. People with jobs requiring extensive screen time may need to take breaks and use lubricating eye drops in between to prevent strain.
Follow-Up Appointments
Regular follow-ups are crucial to monitor the healing and detect if there are any potential complications. The first check-up usually occurs a day after surgery, followed by one after a week and another after a month. During these visits, the doctor checks vision clarity, checks for inflammation, and makes sure that the artificial lens is functioning well. A
Potential Risks and Complications
Though they are rare, complications such as infection, increased eye pressure, or retinal detachment may occur. Some of the warning signs include:
- Severe eye pain or redness
- Sudden vision loss or flashes of light
- Persistent swelling that does not reduce
Chandigarh has become a hub for advanced eye care, offering new technology, experienced ophthalmologists, and specialized hospitals. Patients from different parts of India visit the city for quality, affordable eye care. If you’re considering vision correction, finding the best eye hospital in Chandigarh can significantly improve your treatment and recovery.
References:
- https://www.90210eyes.com/blog/cataract-surgery-what-to-expect-before-during-and-afterwards/#:~:text=Your%20vision%20may%20be%20blurry,we%20can%20monitor%20your%20progress.
- https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/cataract-surgery-what-to-expect-before-during-and-after
- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/21472-cataract-surgery
- https://shreejieyeclinic.com/what-to-expect-before-during-and-after-cataract-surgery/