Cataract surgery is a complicated procedure done to remove the cataract from the lens of the eye. This may involve removing the lens completely, and replacing it with a fake one especially if the lens is significantly damaged or impaired. The cataract itself takes on the appearance of a milky white color that can clearly be seen as it develops. Despite that, some people may not realize there is a problem with their eye until it is found by a medical professional. This article looks at some of the procedures taken to perform the cataract surgery.
Prior to the cataract surgery, the patient will visit with their eye doctor who notifies them of the situation. The doctor can recommend a professional surgeon capable of performing the operation. Additional appointments need to be made with this surgeon, to further examine the problem, and discuss the operation. This is the perfect time for the patient to ask any questions they might have. The procedure itself is done in an operating room at the doctor’s office, though the cataract surgery may be done in their office too.
The cataract surgery starts with the patient arriving for a quick check up, and to check into the hospital or office. The patient then needs to change into a hospital gown, and are taken to a separate room for preparation. The first step is to receive the anesthesia. This can be done through a needle and IV, though in some cases doctors will use a gas. The surgeon then gets to work on the actual cataract surgery.
The cataract surgery is done by propping open the eyelid using a lid speculum. The eye needs to remain fully open throughout the procedure. There are also other tools that are used, to keep the eye functioning even as the operation is done. The cataract itself is cut open, and a small slit placed in the lid. This helps the doctor remove the damaged lens without damaging the eye. The new lens is then used in place of the original one. This lens is often made of a pliable plastic material, though it may be made of another material as well. Once the operation is complete, the patient is moved to a recovery room.
Following the cataract surgery, a plastic and metal patch is installed over the eye. This patch is used to protect the eye from damage and dirt or debris that may injure the new lens. After the cataract surgery the patient needs to follow specific instructions including using prescribed eye drops in their eyes every few hours. The day after the cataract surgery, the patch can be removed and the patient should be fine. They will simply need to have their eyes checked again by the doctor.
