Today we summarize our talk on Cataract Surgery. We have learned that cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest surgical procedures today. In a relatively quick outpatient procedure, the cloudy cataract is removed and is replaced by an intraocular lens implant (IOL).
This artificial lens has the ability to focus light just like a patient’s natural lens. Phacoemulsification (Phaco for short) is one of the modern surgical techniques used today to remove cataracts. Ultrasound technology is used through a small incision to extract the lens.
This technique shortens the recovery time for the patient and restores vision much faster than most other techniques. Of great advantage here, is that sutures are often not required.
Self-Sealing Incision Surgery:
With “phaco”, a probe is inserted through a small 1/8 inch opening which is created in the cornea (clear part of the eye that covers the iris) with a special self-sealing technique.
The advantages of the clear corneal incision are as follows:
- No need for sutures
- Can be performed topical anesthesia (no injections)
- Incision does not bleed
- No restrictions after surgery
- Vision after surgery greatly enhanced
- Astigmatism after surgery greatly reduced
Normal or advanced cataract surgery?
Normal cataract surgery usually corrects vision for one distance using an artificial lens known as a mono-focal lens implant. This means that most patients gain the ability to see distant objects clearly after surgery. They still will require reading glasses, bifocals or progressive lenses to enhance near or intermediate vision. Patients with astigmatism will need corrective lenses to see clearly in the distance.
With today’s advanced cataract removal methods, more patients are moving towards options such as multi-focal IOL’s or Toric lenses. These new IOL’s (intra-ocular lenses) are now available in many different designs and materials. They have worked so well for many patients so much so that some no longer require glasses.
Multi-focal lenses are designed to better mimic the eye’s natural ability to change focus. They provide a better range of vision from distance to intermediate to near vision. They are similar to the progressive lenses people wear in their glasses.
It is necessary to have a complete eye consultation and examination with the doctor. In order to determine each patient’s individual needs and their potential for much improved vision.
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