Focus on Eyes: Having cataract surgery? Here's what you can expect from the procedure
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Q: What do I expect when I have cataract surgery?
A: The human eye functions like a camera.
The lens inside the eye focuses the images onto the retina so we can see.
So, when the lens becomes cloudy, there is a cataract.
When the cataract is sufficiently cloudy, things look foggy and are difficult to see.
Your ophthalmologist will recommend surgery to remove the cloudy lens and restore your vision.
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Prior to the surgery, the eye is measured to determine its length and the shape of the cornea.
This information is used to calculate the power of the intraocular lens that will replace the cloudy natural lens.
Your medical history and medicines are reviewed so you know what medicines to take on the day of surgery.
When you arrive at the surgery center, the eye will receive dilating drops to enlarge pupil because the cataract is behind the iris and pupil.
Local anesthesia is used with cataract surgery.
The eye is oftentimes numbed with anesthetic eye drops or gels, however, some patients may receive anesthetic medication around the eye by injection.
Additionally, a small amount of anti-anxiety medicine is used to help you to relax.
Most patients stay awake during the surgery.
The cataract surgeon uses an operating microscope to perform the surgery.
It is essential for you to look at the light coming down from the microscope and stay still during the surgery.
A very small incision is made at the outside edge of the cornea.
The cataract is fragmented into small pieces with ultrasound and removed from the eye.
A new artificial lens or an intraocular lens is put in its place. Because the incision is so small, it is self-sealed and a stitch or suture is usually not required.
After the surgery, a shield is placed to protect the eye. You will be transported to the recovery area.
The staff will provide instructions about eye drops and activities after surgery. Then you are ready to go home with a family member or a friend.
Typically you will have an examination with your ophthalmologist the day after surgery.
There will be more discussion about eye drops, physical activities, and the healing progress.
You will continue to have regular examinations until the eye is healed. Most patients will enjoy excellent vision when the healing is complete.
However, cataract surgery will not restore vision loss from other eye conditions such as macular degeneration or diabetes.
Dr. Frederick Ho, the medical director of Atlantic Eye MD and Atlantic Surgery and Laser Center, is a board certified ophthalmologist. Atlantic Eye MD is located at 8040 N. Wickham Road in Melbourne. To make an appointment please call (321) 757-7272. To learn more visit AtlanticEyeMD.com.
This article originally appeared on Florida Today: Here's what to expect before, during and after cataract surgery
