Cataract Surgery - Safest Treatment & Highest Success Rate

How does the cataract eye surgery procedure work?

The cataract surgery operation has a high success rate and is generally safe. Following are the steps involved in the cataract eye surgery procedure:

• Preparation: Prior to the surgical cataract removal, the patient undergoes a detailed eye examination, and the doctor takes measurements to determine the correct power of the intraocular lens (IOL) to be implanted. The area around the eyes is cleaned, and the surgeon gives local anaesthesia to numb the eye, ensuring the patient experiences minimal pain during the procedure.
• Incision: The surgeon makes a small incision on the side of the cornea, the clear dome-shaped surface that covers the front of the eye. This incision is usually less than 3mm wide.
• Capsulorhexis: The doctor makes a circular hole in the capsule that surrounds the lens to access and remove the cataract.
• Phacoemulsification: For most cataract surgeries, a small ultrasonic probe is inserted through the incision. This device breaks up or emulsifies, the cloudy lens into tiny fragments using sound waves.
• Lens removal: The emulsified lens fragments are gently suctioned out through the same probe.
• IOL Implantation: Once the natural lens is removed, a foldable IOL is inserted through the incision. It unfolds naturally and is positioned into the lens capsule.
• Sealing the incision: In most cases, the incision is self-sealing and does not require stitches, healing naturally over time.
• Cataract Surgery Aftercare: After your cataract eye treatment is done, surgeon may place a protective shield over the eye. The patient mostly rests for a short while before going home. Cataract surgery after care involves using prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and control eye pressure.

Who Is Eligible For Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery is considered when the quality of life is compromised due to poor vision caused by cataracts. Ideal candidates are those for whom non-surgical options are insufficient to manage the associated symptoms. Here are the eligibility criteria:

• Significant Vision Loss: Patients who experience significant vision impairments that affect daily activities like reading, driving, or recognizing faces may be considered for surgery.
• Cataract Maturity: While cataracts do not need to be “ripe” or fully developed as once thought, significant clouding should be evident.
• Overall Eye Health: Suitable candidates generally have no other major eye diseases. Conditions like macular degeneration or advanced glaucoma may affect the surgery’s outcome.
• Physical Health: Patients should be in stable physical health to undergo the procedure. Certain systemic conditions like diabetes or heart disease should be well-managed.
• Understanding of Risks and Benefits: Candidates should have a clear understanding of the potential risks and benefits of the surgery, ensuring realistic expectations.

Benefits of Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful procedures performed today, with a profound impact on improving patients’ quality of life. The benefits of undergoing cataract surgery include:

• Restores Clear Vision: The most immediate and significant benefit is the restoration of clear vision. Patients often notice a dramatic improvement in visual clarity, colour perception, and overall sight sharpness.
• Increased Independence: Improved vision reduces the dependency on others for daily tasks like reading, driving, and navigating through different environments.
• Enhanced Safety: With better sight, the risks associated with falls and accidental injuries decrease considerably, particularly for the elderly.
• Lesser Glare: Patients often experience reduced sensitivity to glare, which improves comfort and visual clarity, especially while driving at night.
• Better Quality of Life: Clear vision contributes to a better overall quality of life. It allows individuals to engage more in activities they enjoy, leading to improved mental health and social interactions.
• Long-Term Eye Health: Removing a cataract can prevent further deterioration of vision and potential complications that can arise from leaving a cataract untreated.

How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery?

Preparing for cataract surgery is crucial to ensure a smooth procedure and optimal outcome. Here are the steps to prepare:

• Initial consultation: Meet with your ophthalmologist to discuss the procedure, potential risks, and cataract surgery aftercare. This is also the time to address any questions or concerns.
• Pre-surgical assessment: Get a comprehensive eye examination to measure the eye’s shape and size, helping to select the appropriate lens implant.
• Medication review: Inform your surgeon about all medications and supplements you are taking, as some may need to be paused before the surgery.
• Arrange a ride back home: Since you won’t be able to drive immediately after the procedure, arrange for someone to drive you home from the hospital.
• Fasting: Often, you may be instructed to fast for 12 hours before your surgery, depending on the type of anaesthesia used.
• Pre-operative instructions: Follow any specific instructions your surgeon provides regarding eye drops or other pre-surgery preparations.

Recovery Tips and Precautions

After cataract surgery, taking the proper precautions can aid in a smooth and successful recovery. Here are essential tips to follow:

• Eye Protection: Immediately after the procedure, protect your eye from physical trauma by wearing an eye shield or glasses as recommended by your doctor.
• Avoid Strenuous Activities: For a few weeks, avoid heavy lifting or strenuous activities that can increase eye pressure and harm the healing process.
• Follow Medication Instructions: Use the prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Make sure to follow the schedule strictly without missing doses.
• Attend Follow-up Appointments: Keep all post-operative appointments so your doctor can monitor your healing progress and address any complications early.
• Watch for Warning Signs: Be aware of signs that could indicate a problem, such as increased eye redness, severe pain, or sudden vision loss. Contact your doctor immediately if these occur.
• Rest Your Eyes: Avoid prolonged activities that strain the eyes, such as reading, using a computer, or watching television, especially during the first few days after surgery.

With these after care tips and instructions for cataract removal, you can ensure a smooth healing process and enjoy the maximum benefits of cataract surgery.

Potential Risks Or Complications

While cataract surgery is generally safe and effective, like any surgical procedure, it carries potential risks and complications. Here are some of the most common concerns:

• Infection: Post-surgical infection, though rare, is a serious complication that can occur. Strict adherence to post-operative care, including the use of antibiotic eye drops, helps minimise this risk.
• Inflammation: Some degree of inflammation is expected after cataract surgery, but excessive inflammation can lead to discomfort and affect vision.
• Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO): Often referred to as a secondary cataract, PCO occurs when the part of the lens covering (capsule) that remains after surgery becomes cloudy, affecting vision.
• Retinal Detachment: Although uncommon, the retina can detach from the back of the eye. Symptoms include a sudden increase in floaters or flashes of light.
• Ocular Hypertension: Some patients may experience an increase in eye pressure following surgery, which can be managed with medication.
• Lens Dislocation: In rare cases, the implanted lens can shift from its original position, potentially requiring additional surgery to reposition or replace it.