Cataract Surgery: What to Expect
It can be unnerving to know you require eye surgery, especially if your eyes have maintained excellent condition before your diagnosis. If you have been told you require cataract removal surgery, or you are displaying symptoms that suggest you may, here is what you need to know.
What is cataract removal surgery?
Otherwise known as an eye cataract operation, cataract removal surgery involves removing the lens from inside the eye and replacing it with a clear artificial one, usually made from plastic. Cataract surgery Houston has a high success rate and is one of the most commonly performed operations in the U.S.
The process of cataract removal surgery commonly involves the insertion of a tiny probe into the eye, which breaks up the lens, making it easy to be removed by suction. Alternatively, a longer incision may be made on the side of the cornea, and the cloudy core of the lens is removed in one piece.
Surgery usually takes between half an hour to an hour and will generally be performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you won’t have to put your life on hold on the days leading up to, and following your eye cataract operation. Two separate operations will be carried out if you have cataracts in both eyes, but they will not be performed at the same time. This is to enable each eye to heal separately.
What about post-surgery recovery?
Following your cataract removal surgery, it is normal for your vision to be blurry for a limited period while your eyes adjust to the transplanted lens. You should not feel significant pain in the days after the procedure, but you may experience some mild soreness and discomfort.
You will be offered a pad or patch to cover your eye, which should be left in place until your eye can be examined by a professional (usually within 24 hours). You should not drive while you are recovering from the surgery.
Your eye may appear red or bruised, to begin with, but the swelling should subside within a few days, and your vision should clear and improve.In the meantime, you will be provided with eye drops to reduce the possibility of rejection or infection.
Do I need cataract removal surgery?
In the majority of cases, it is usually obvious when you are experiencing vision-related issues that require cataract removal surgery. You may have noticed a gradual change over time, or you may have been diagnosed with the condition by an optician or another medical professional.
Symptoms of cataracts involve blurred or clouded vision, colors appearing faded, seeing “halos” around lights, light sensitivity, and difficulty with vision in the dark or dim light. You should not feel any pain.
If you think you may be suffering from cataracts and you haven’t already sought help from a medical professional, you should do so immediately. The faster cataract removal surgery can be carried out;the more effective the outcome will be. Surgery is nothing to fear, so long as you put your trust in the hands of an experienced specialist with a proven background of quality and excellence.
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