Last Updated on November 5, 2023 by Asfa Rasheed
What are cataracts?
Cataract surgery is a very successful one and has helped many people improve their vision. It is important to know that the surgery is not without risk, however, and that it is important to consult with your doctor beforehand to ensure that it is the right decision for you.
How do cataracts affect vision?
Cataracts are a common cause of vision problems in older adults. By definition, a cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens. The lens is located behind the iris (the coloured part of the eye) and helps to focus light onto the retina, which is responsible for sending images to the brain. As we age, our lenses naturally become less transparent and begin to yellow. This can cause difficulty seeing at night and an increased sensitivity to glare from bright lights. In addition, cataracts can distort your vision, making objects appear blurry or fuzzy.
Cataracts typically develop slowly and painlessly over time. In fact, many people don’t even realize they have them until their vision has noticeably worsened. In some cases, however, cataracts can form rapidly due to injury or certain medical conditions such as diabetes. Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can help improve your vision. If you are considering cataract surgery, it is important to choose a reputable and experienced surgeon such as cataract surgery in Singapore.
If left untreated, cataracts will eventually lead to blindness. Fortunately, modern surgery is highly effective at correcting this condition. During surgery, your surgeon will remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial one. This procedure is typically very safe and successful in restoring clear vision.
How are cataracts diagnosed?
Cataracts are diagnosed during a comprehensive eye exam that includes both a vision test and an examination of the eyes using a magnifying lens. Your eye care professional also will ask about your medical history and any medications you take.
What are the risks of surgery for cataracts?
Cataract surgery is generally a very safe and effective procedure. However, as with any type of surgery, there are certain risks associated with the procedure. These risks include:
-Infection: Although rare, the infection can occur after cataract surgery. Symptoms of an infection may include redness, swelling, and discharge from the eye. If you experience any of these symptoms after surgery, it is important to see your doctor right away.
-Bleeding: Bleeding can occur during or after cataract surgery. If you experience excessive bleeding, seek medical attention immediately.
-Swelling: Swelling is common after cataract surgery and usually subsides within a few days. However, if the swelling persists or becomes severe, it is important to see your doctor right away.
-Retinal detachment: In rare cases, the retina (the layer of tissue at the back of the eye) can become detached from the eye after cataract surgery. This can lead to vision loss if not treated promptly. If you experience sudden vision loss or floaters (spots in your vision), seek medical attention immediately as this could be a sign of retinal detachment.
How is surgery for cataracts performed?
Cataract surgery is a procedure that is performed to remove the clouded lens of the eye and replace it with a clear artificial lens. The surgery is usually done as an outpatient procedure, which means that you will not have to stay in the hospital overnight.
The first step of cataract surgery is to numb the eye with anaesthetic drops. Once the eye is numb, your surgeon will make a small incision in the front of your eye. Through this incision, your surgeon will insert an instrument called a phacoemulsification probe. This probe uses ultrasound waves to break up the cloudy lens so that it can be removed from your eye.
After the cloudy lens has been removed, your surgeon will insert a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL) into your eye. The IOL will remain in your eye permanently. In most cases, cataract surgery is successful in improving vision and does not require any additional treatment.
What can be expected after surgery for cataracts?
Cataract surgery is a very common and relatively safe procedure. More than 3 million Americans have the surgery each year, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.
Most people who have cataract surgery have successful outcomes and experience an improvement in their vision. In fact, more than 90% of people who have the surgery experience significant vision improvement, according to the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery.
However, as with any surgery, there are some risks involved in cataract surgery. These risks include infection, bleeding, swelling and inflammation. Additionally, there is a small risk that the eye’s natural lens could be damaged during surgery.
Overall, cataract surgery is a safe and effective way to improve vision. Most people who have the surgery experience little to no complications and are able to see better afterwards.
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