Cataract Eye Surgery

By Halbert Tajo

 

Cataract eye surgery is a procedure that is designed to remove cloudy patches that can form on the lens of the eye. These patches are known as cataracts and they can become bigger which can impair your everyday vision. The surgery to remove cataracts will usually last around 45 minutes and is a relatively simple procedure, usually enabling patients to return to their normal routine after just 24 hours. If surgery is required in both eyes then these are usually completed separately and over a space of time to allow the first eye time to heal.

The eye is a complex and delicate part of the body. Even minor irritations and problems can lead to visual impairment. A cataract is a cloudy patch that forms on the lens of the eye and while it may sound innocuous it can lead to blurred vision and can further impact on your sight over time. Having a cataract removed is a surprisingly simple procedure and is one of the most common surgical procedures undertaken.

A cataract will usually develop over time and will gradually worsen. While most cataracts are caught relatively early, especially with regular eye tests, if left untreated they can lead to a complete loss of ability to make out details. The sooner cataract eye surgery is carried out, the better for the patient, although even severe cataracts can be removed with the assistance of a good surgeon. The process is simple and quick, and the recovery time is also short.

Currently, the only option known for counteracting the ill effects of a cataract is to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with a clear one. While it is unusual, it is possible for cataracts to appear and form in both eyes. In these cases it is usual for the surgeon to opt to carry out the surgery on each eye separately. This gives the first eye time to heal and enables the patient to become accustomed to having their sight restored to normal in one eye before completing the final surgery. You will usually need to wait around 2 months between procedures.

The operation itself is normally conducted under local anaesthetic and as a day case. This means that you will be conscious for the procedure but anaesthetic will be applied to the area. It also means that you can have cataract eye surgery and be back home on the same day as the procedure is completed.
You should be back at work and undertaking your usual daily routine within another 24 hours too.

The operation itself will last around 20 minutes. A tiny cut is made on the surface of the eye before fluid is added to the eye and ultrasound used to break up the cloudy lens. The surgeon will remove the broken lens and place a folded, artificial lens through the cut. Once inside your eye, the lens will unfold and the cut is usually left to heal naturally over time although, in some cases, a single stitch may be used to heal the cut. Your cataract eye surgery will then be complete and you will be left for a period to recuperate and ensure that you are well.

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