Facts About Cataract Surgery San Antonio

By Mollie Burton


Cataract surgery is the procedure whereby there is removal of the lens of the eye, replacing it with an artificial one. It is used in the treatment of clouding that occurs in the eye. This procedure is performed by eye doctors, usually on an outpatient basis, which means one does not have to stay in hospital after the surgical procedure. The entire procedure is safe and is common. When going for cataract surgery San Antonio residents should know what is involved.

The cloudiness causes vision to be blurry and there is also an increase in glare from light. The surgical operation is recommended by the doctor when the cloudiness intensifies and makes those involved not to be able to perform their daily chores. Surgery will also be a necessity when the cataracts interfere with treatment of other eye conditions. An example is when they make it hard for the ophthalmologist to examine the back part of the eye.

Generally, if one decides to postpone the surgical operation for a while, there will not be any problem. This gives individuals time to consider any other options that may be available. When making the decision, there are important factors that have to be considered. The individual should consider if they can safely do their job, if they have problems reading or watching TV, whether or not they can clearly see faces and whether bright light affects their eyes.

This procedure is relatively safe and any complications or risks are rarely experienced. There may be the risk of infection, bleeding, retinal detachment, swelling, glaucoma and loss of vision. People suffering from other eye conditions are at a greater risk of complications. Such underlying damage may also have a negative effect on treatment.

There are certain preparations before the procedure. One will need to undergo tests one week in advance, notably ultrasound. This is done for measurement of the shape and size of the eye to help in determining type of lens implant to be used. One may also have to stop taking certain medications which may increase risk of bleeding. Eye drops are used in reducing risk of infection. Doctors at times instruct their patients not to drink or eat anything for 12 hours preceding the operation.

The procedure takes a very short time; one or two hours. Eye drops are placed in the eye in order to dilate the pupil. There is then the use of local anesthesia to numb surrounding areas and sedatives for relaxation.

During cataract surgery, there is removal of the lens that is clouded, then implantation of the clear artificial lens. There are certain cases in which cataracts are removed without subsequent implantation of the artificial lens. Vision is expected to improve within a few days after coming from hospital. The vision could be blurry at first but adjusts over time.

The individual should expect some itching for a few days during recovery. Doctors normally advice patients that they should not rub their eyes whenever they itch. Eye patches and protective shields are likely to be required for some time after surgery.




About the Author:



No comments:

Post a Comment