One of the most common and routine surgical procedures done in the country is cataract surgery. As the country’s population ages, more and more people will develop cataracts and rely on surgeons to remove them. If you or a loved one has cataracts, read on to learn more about this effective treatment option.
The Basics of Cataract Extraction
Cataract surgery may become necessary when the crystalline lens inside the eye undergoes age-related changes and becomes cloudy, affecting vision and daily activities. The most common type of cataract removal is done via a process called phacoemulsification, in which a high-frequency device is used to fragment the cloudy lens, allowing the surgeon to safely remove the small pieces. A new, clear intraocular lens is placed in the same capsule held the natural lens. This procedure is done using a very small corneal incision which does not require a suture or stitches to heal. While other variations of cataract surgery are possible, phacoemulsification is generally considered the safest and most effective method of extraction.
The Recovery Process
Cataract surgery is a quick, outpatient procedure in which the patient can go home shortly after the surgery is complete. Following cataract extraction, the surgeon will prescribe a series of drops to prevent infection and post-surgical inflammation. Several follow-up visits will also be required to allow your eye doctor to monitor ocular health and visual improvement. Commonly, vision is drastically improved immediately following surgery, and the patient is able to resume daily activities right away with a few precautions. For the overwhelming majority of patients, it is a painless and simple process.
Risks of Cataract Surgery
Cataract extraction is generally thought of as a safe procedure. But like any surgery, it carries a small degree of risk. Complications following cataract surgery can include swelling in the back of the eye, infection, or decentered lens implants, to name a few. The most common post-surgical complication occurs when cells from the capsule enclosing the new lens migrate onto the implant. This process is known as posterior capsule opacification, and may also be known as a secondary cataract.
Cataract surgery has proven to improve the site of millions of individuals. In many instances, glasses or corrective lenses aren’t needed after surgery, and a drastic improvement in quality of life is noted.
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