Cataract Surgery

What is cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is a form of eye surgery aimed at removing a cataract (a cloudy lens) to enhance your vision. Your eye functions similarly to a camera, possessing a lens that focuses light. This lens primarily consists of water and proteins. As a cataract develops, the proteins begin to degrade naturally, leading to a clouding and yellowing of the lens. The most prevalent cause of cataracts is aging. Nevertheless, various medical conditions, certain medications, injuries, and prior eye surgeries can also contribute to the formation of cataracts.

A cataract obstructs the proper passage of light through your lens. Consequently, you may experience symptoms such as blurred vision, halos surrounding bright lights, or double vision.

Cataract surgery involves the removal of the opaque lens and its replacement with a transparent, artificial lens. An ophthalmologist conducts the procedure and assists you in choosing the most suitable type of intraocular lens (IOL) for your needs.

The majority of individuals receive an intraocular lens (IOL) during their cataract surgery. IOLs are transparent, allowing light to pass through and be properly focused by the eye. These lenses provide various focusing powers to address both nearsightedness and farsightedness.

Your surgeon might also provide specialized intraocular lenses (IOLs) designed to address astigmatism and presbyopia. Although these lenses are not included in insurance coverage, they could reduce your reliance on glasses or contact lenses following your cataract surgery.

Cataract surgery is presently the sole established method for treating cataracts in adults. For the majority of individuals, the procedure successfully restores vision and is free from complications. It is a swift, outpatient operation that allows for a rapid recovery. You may only require surgery on one eye. In cases where cataracts in both eyes necessitate surgical intervention, your ophthalmologist will arrange for two surgeries spaced a week or two apart.

How painful is cataract surgery?

The majority of individuals experience minimal to no discomfort during or following cataract surgery. A topical anesthetic, in the form of eye drops, will be administered to numb your eye throughout the procedure. Shortly after the surgery, you may notice a gritty sensation or slight tenderness in your eye; however, over-the-counter pain relief medication should alleviate this discomfort.

Who needs cataract surgery?

Surgery may be necessary if cataracts in one or both eyes are leading to vision issues that disrupt your normal activities. Your eye care professional may also suggest cataract surgery if they require a view of the back of your eye to address other ocular conditions such as:

• Age-related macular degeneration.
• Diabetes-related retinopathy.

It is essential to understand that cataract surgery does not address vision loss caused by other conditions. Its sole purpose is to enhance vision loss resulting from cataracts.

How do I decide if it’s time for cataract surgery?

Cataracts do not constitute a medical emergency. Therefore, if you have recently been informed that you have cataracts, there is no need to feel hurried or compelled to arrange for surgery. Typically, you can postpone the surgery until it is most convenient for you.

When you initially observe symptoms of cataracts, obtaining a new prescription for glasses or contact lenses may provide some assistance. However, cataracts typically deteriorate progressively. Once cataracts hinder your ability to perform necessary or desired activities, it may be appropriate to consider surgical intervention. Consult with your eye surgeon regarding the optimal timing for surgery based on your specific circumstances.

How common is cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery ranks among the most frequently performed surgical procedures in both the United States and worldwide. It is estimated by researchers that annually, more than 3 million cataract surgeries are conducted in the U.S. alone, with approximately 20 million performed globally. Furthermore, nearly 50% of individuals who reach their 90s will require cataract surgery.

Treatment Details

How should I prepare for cataract surgery?

Prior to the day of your surgery, you will have a comprehensive eye examination with your ophthalmologist. This examination will include a thorough assessment by your ophthalmologist.

• Check your eye health.
• Look for any signs that you shouldn’t have surgery.
• Determine risk factors that could complicate your surgery.
• Measure your eye to find the correct focusing power for your IOL.
• Tell you if you need to use prescription eye drops.

Use this time to share any concerns or questions with your ophthalmologist. You may want to ask:

• What are the risks of surgery for me?
• What are the benefits for me?
• What type of IOL do you recommend for me?
• Will I need glasses or contacts after the surgery?
• How long will my recovery be?
• When can I expect to return to my usual activities?

You won’t be able to drive right after your surgery. So, be sure to ask someone to drive you to and from your surgery.

How is cataract surgery done?

Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure. So, you can go home soon after the surgery ends.

To perform cataract surgery, your surgeon will:

1. Numb the surface of your eye.

This procedure is referred to as topical anesthesia. You will be administered eye drops in your eye to ensure that you do not experience any sensation during the surgery. Additionally, you may be given medication to assist in your relaxation. Although you will remain awake throughout the surgery, your vision will be limited to a spectrum of lights, preventing you from seeing any instruments approaching you.

2. Make a tiny incision in your cornea.

Your surgeon may utilize either a laser or a scalpel. Typically, the incision does not require sutures for closure.

3. Break up and remove the cataract.

The predominant method for achieving this is known as phacoemulsification. Your surgeon will employ ultrasound waves to fragment your lens into numerous small pieces. Subsequently, they will remove those fragments using suction.

4. Insert your new lens.

Your surgeon will place your new lens through the identical incision. The majority of IOLs are designed to fold for convenient insertion. Subsequently, your IOL expands into the area previously occupied by your cloudy lens.

5. Protect your eye.

Your surgeon will apply a protective shield (similar to an eye patch) over your eye to ensure its safety.

How long does cataract surgery take?

Cataract surgery typically lasts between 10 to 15 minutes. However, when factoring in preparation and recovery, your entire appointment may extend to several hours. It is advisable to inquire with your ophthalmologist about the expected duration so that you can inform the individual who will be driving you.

What can I expect after cataract surgery?

:

Once your surgery has been completed, your surgeon will observe you for a period of 15 to 30 minutes. They will also arrange your initial follow-up appointment. Following this, you will be able to return home.

 It is common for your vision to appear blurry immediately after the surgery. This is a normal occurrence. Over the course of the next few days and weeks, your vision will progressively enhance. Additional temporary side effects may also manifest.

• Gritty feeling in your eyes.
• Red or bloodshot eyes.
• Watery eyes.

Risks / Benefits

What are the benefits of cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is the sole method to eliminate a cataract and enhance your vision. There are no medications or eye drops that have been shown to improve vision deterioration caused by cataracts.

After surgery, you can expect to:

• Enjoy sharper, clearer vision.
• Be less bothered by glare when looking at bright lights (such as when driving at night).
• See colors more vividly.
• Rely less on glasses, in some cases.

How successful is cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is successful in improving vision in about 97% of people who have it.

What are the risks of this procedure?

Cataract surgery is a safe and commonly performed procedure. Complications during and following cataract surgery are infrequent when conducted by a skilled surgeon. However, your likelihood of experiencing complications may increase if you have specific eye disorders or medical issues

Possible risks of cataract surgery include:

• Eye bleeding or swelling.
• Ongoing eye pain.
• Blurred vision or vision loss.
• Visual disturbances, such as glare, halos and shadows.
• IOL displacement (your new lens moves out of place).
• Posterior capsular opacification (the membrane that holds your lens becomes cloudy).
• Retinal detachment, affecting 2 in 1,000 people.
• Infection, affecting fewer than 1 in 1,000 people.

Your ophthalmologist is capable of effectively managing the majority of these complications. Prior to your surgery, it is advisable to inquire with your ophthalmologist regarding your specific risk level. Additionally, ask about the methods they can employ to address any complications that might occur.

Recovery and Outlook

How long does it take to recover from cataract surgery?

In general, complete recovery from cataract surgery requires approximately four weeks. However, many individuals observe enhancements in their vision within just a few days. During this time, there should be minimal pain or discomfort.

How do I care for myself at home?

Your surgeon will provide you with instructions on how to care for yourself at home. It is advisable to inquire with your surgeon for specific information regarding when you may:

• Drive.
• Swim.
• Wear eye makeup.
• Exercise.
• Bend over.
• Lift heavy objects.
• Return to work or other activities.

Resume work or engage in other activities. You might consider having a family member or friend accompany you to receive this information. Alternatively, you can request your surgeon to document it for you. Here are some general recommendations for your return home:

• Use eye drops as your surgeon recommends.
• Don’t get water, shampoo or soap in your eye.
• Don’t rub or put pressure on your eye.
• Wear sunglasses when you go outside.
• Wear your eye shield when you sleep and other times as your surgeon recommends.

When To Call the Doctor

When should I call my healthcare provider?

Call your ophthalmologist right away if you experience:

• Eye pain or redness
• Crusting or mucous discharge around your eye.
• Worsening vision or vision loss.
• Eye floaters or flashes.

A note from Cleveland Clinic

The prospect of undergoing surgery often induces anxiety in many individuals. If you have been informed that you may require cataract surgery — a procedure aimed at removing a cataract (a cloudy lens) to enhance your vision — you may be contemplating what your vision will be like post-surgery and what the recovery process entails. Take solace in knowing that millions of individuals undergo cataract surgery annually. Furthermore, the overwhelming majority experience enhanced vision without any complications.

As with any surgical procedure, it is essential to bring all of your inquiries to your healthcare provider. Obtain the necessary information to feel comfortable with this choice. Each individual’s medical history and ocular health vary, making it crucial to discuss with your provider what you can anticipate in your specific circumstances.