Cataract Implant Surgery
What is a cataract?
A cataract is the clouding of the normally clear lens of the eye. it can be compared to a window that is frosted or “fogged” with steam.
Common symptoms of a cataract include:
- A painless blurring of vision
- Glare or light sensitivity
- Frequent eyeglass prescription changes
- Needing brighter light to read
- Poor night vision
- Fading or yellowing of colors
What causes cataracts?
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The most common type of cataract is related to aging of the eye. Other causes include family history, medical problems such as diabetes, injury to the eye, medications such as steroids, long-term unprotected exposure to sunlight.
Cataracts cannot be prevented, and there is no proven treatment other than surgery; however, cataracts may be delayed or slowed by these precautions:
- Avoid too much exposure to ultraviolet light (sunlight). Wear a hat and use sunglasses
- Keep your blood sugar under control if you have diabetes
- Eat a healthy diet
- Avoid smoking and excessive use of alcohol
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When should surgery be done?
Cataract surgery should be considered when cataracts cause enough loss of vision to interfere with daily activities. Can you perform daily tasks, such as cooking, shopping, yard work or taking medications without difficulty? Based upon your symptoms, you and Dr. Elmquist should decide together when surgery is appropriate.
What can I expect from cataract surgery?
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During cataract surgery, which is usually performed under local anesthesia as an outpatient procedure, the cloudy lens is removed from the eye. In most cases, the focusing power of the natural lens is restored by replacing it with a permanent intraocular lens implant.
In approximately one-fifth of people having cataract surgery, the natural capsule that supports the intraocular lens will become cloudy. Laser surgery is used to open this cloudy capsule, restoring the clear vision. After cataract surgery, you may return almost immediately to all but the most strenuous activities. You will have to use eye drops as Dr. Elmquist directs. Several postoperative visits are needed to check on the progress of the eye as it heals. Cataract surgery is a highly successful procedure, but it is important to understand that complications can occur during or after surgery, some severe enough to limit vision. As with any surgery, a good result cannot be guaranteed.
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