Cataract surgery is a common and highly successful procedure performed to restore vision in individuals suffering from cataracts, a condition characterized by the clouding of the eye’s natural lens. The surgery aims to remove the cloudy lens and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to improve vision clarity. Cataracts often develop gradually with age, causing vision impairment, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, and difficulty seeing at night. Cataract surgery is typically recommended when the cataracts significantly impact an individual’s quality of life and daily activities.
The surgical procedure itself is generally safe, quick, and performed on an outpatient basis. It is commonly done under local anesthesia, ensuring the patient remains awake throughout the surgery while feeling minimal discomfort. The surgeon makes a small incision in the eye, usually less than 3 millimeters in length, and uses advanced techniques, such as phacoemulsification, to break up and remove the cloudy lens. Once the cataract is removed, the IOL is carefully inserted into the eye, where it remains permanently. The IOL serves as a replacement for the natural lens, allowing light to properly focus on the retina and restoring clear vision. Following the surgery, patients typically experience improved vision within a few days and can resume their normal activities with some precautions.
If you have any questions about cataract removal surgery or would like your cataracts examined, don’t hesitate to contact us today.