6 Things to Consider Before Cataract Surgery
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When a cataract develops on the eye, it will not go away unless you have surgery to remove it permanently. Although it usually takes time to deteriorate, a cataract can seriously affect your quality of life. Whether you decide to wait a while before getting the procedure done or you want to get rid of one immediately, here are a few considerations to make before cataract surgery.
Is Cataract Surgery Safe?
In the United States, cataract surgery is one of the safest and most common surgeries performed, with up to 95 percent of patients experiencing a better vision. The risk of complications is low, but some people may experience side effects after the surgery. These include dry eye and cloudy vision, and some people may also experience discomfort after the surgery. However, everything should return to normal after the recovery period.
When is the Right Time to Undergo Surgery?
Cataracts are progressive eye conditions and usually first appear in adults aged 40 and over. This condition often develops over a period of time, and age-related cataracts don’t usually impair vision until the adult reaches the age of 75. If left untreated, it can lead to blindness. Some children are born with this condition, congenital cataracts, and they can also appear earlier on in a person’s life due to genetics, smoking, and long-term use of certain drugs and medication. They can also develop due to radiation therapy, an eye injury, or illnesses, such as diabetes. This goes to show that there is no ‘right’ time to undergo surgery. Once this health condition affects your quality of life, it is time to seriously consider surgery. People searching for cataract surgery near me should consider the recovery process.
What is the Recovery Time?
The recovery process varies from person to person, but most people fully recover from surgery within three months. However, many people experience clear vision within days while others see clearly almost straight after the procedure. Individuals should refrain from swimming, wearing eye makeup, and undertaking strenuous tasks and activities during the recovery period.
What Does the Procedure Involve?
There are two types of cataract surgery, traditional and laser-assisted. Most surgeons carry out the traditional procedure, but laser-assisted surgery may be offered to people with astigmatism. Both procedures involve creating a small incision on the eye, removing the clouded lens, and replacing it with an artificial lens.
What Type of Replacement Lens Are There?
Your affected lens will be replaced with an intraocular lens (IOL). The type can vary depending on your needs. Monofocal lenses are the most common, and they have one focusing distance, while multifocal lenses provide near focus and distance. Toric lenses are designed to correct astigmatism that already exists in the eye.
What Happens After the Procedure?
After the procedure, you may be given eye drops to use. You must follow your doctor’s instructions when taking them. When outdoors, you may need to protect your eye with glasses or an eye shield. This eye shield will need to be worn during sleep too. If you decide to wait before resorting to surgery, make sure you go for regular check-ups so that a professional can monitor the progression.
