Why is this procedure done?
Cataract removal is done when the cataract affects your eyesight. Cataracts cloud the clear part of the eye called the lens. The lens in your eye helps you to see and focus on an image. When you have a cataract, it blocks the light that enters your eye. Without enough light, you cannot see clearly. This will slowly cause a loss in eyesight. The doctor will put an artificial lens in your eye during surgery. This will make your eyesight better. ‚
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What will the results be?
You can have better eyesight and see clearly after the surgery. You may or may not need eyeglasses after the surgery. ‚
What happens before the procedure?
- Your doctor will take your history. Talk to the doctor about:
- All the drugs you are taking. Be sure to include all prescription and over-the-counter (OTC) drugs, and herbal supplements. Tell the doctor about any drug allergy. Bring a list of drugs you take with you.
- Any bleeding problems. Be sure to tell your doctor if you are taking any drugs that may cause bleeding. Some of these are Coumadin ‚ ®, ibuprofen, Aleve ‚ ® (naproxen), or aspirin. Certain vitamins and herbs, such as garlic and fish oil, may also add to the risk for bleeding. You may need to stop these drugs as well. Talk to your doctor about them.
- When you need to stop eating or drinking before your procedure.
- Your doctor will do an exam and may order:
- Full eye exam ¢ ˆ ’ To measure the curve, size, and shape of the eye
- Ultrasound or laser scans ¢ ˆ ’ To help know the best new lens for you
- Eye drops given by your doctor
- You will not be allowed to drive right away after the procedure. Ask a family member or a friend to drive you home.
- Wear comfortable, loose clothing on the day of surgery.
- Do not wear eye or face make-up on the day of surgery.
- Bring any drugs or eye kit (with drugs or eye drops) with you the day of your surgery.
What happens during the procedure?
You will have eye drops placed into your eye to numb the area. The doctor will use a microscope to look at your eye. ‚
There are two types of cataract surgery: ‚
- Phacoemulsification technique ¢ ˆ ’ The doctor will use an ultrasound to break up the cloudy lens. Then, a small cut is made in the eye. The broken lens is removed by suction. It will be replaced with your new lens.
- Extracapsular technique ¢ ˆ ’ Your doctor makes a longer cut in the eye. The cloudy lens is removed in one piece through the cut. Then, your new lens will be put in to replace the affected lens. Your doctor may give you an injection to numb your eye before this kind of surgery.
Your doctor may also use a laser to treat high eye pressure at the same time. ‚
During surgery you may: ‚
- Have eye drops to numb your eye
- Have drugs to make you sleepy
- Feel pressure in your eye
- Sense a bright light in your eye
You may or may not need stitches. A patch will be placed over your eye. The surgery most often lasts less than 1 hour. ‚
What happens after the procedure?
- You can go home right after the surgery. In rare cases, some will have to stay at the hospital.
- Your eyes may feel itchy and uneasy. There may also be some fluid discharge.
- Your eyes may be sensitive to sunlight, wind, and other irritants. This most often goes away after 1 or 2 days.
What drugs may be needed?
The doctor may order drugs to: ‚
- Treat or prevent an eye infection
- Keep your eye moist
- Lower swelling
What problems could happen?
- Bleeding
- Infection
- Your eyesight may get worse
Where can I learn more?
American Academy of Ophthalmology ‚
http://www.geteyesmart.org/eyesmart/diseases/cataract-surgery.cfm ‚
Foundation of the American Academy of Ophthalmology ‚
http://www.eyecareamerica.org/eyecare/conditions/cataracts/condition.cfm ‚
Consumer Information Use and Disclaimer
This information is not specific medical advice and does not replace information you receive from your health care provider. This is only a brief summary of general information. It does NOT include all information about conditions, illnesses, injuries, tests, procedures, treatments, therapies, discharge instructions or life-style choices that may apply to you. You must talk with your health care provider for complete information about your health and treatment options. This information should not be used to decide whether or not to accept your health care providers advice, instructions or recommendations. Only your health care provider has the knowledge and training to provide advice that is right for you. ‚
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Copyright ‚ © 2015 Clinical Drug Information, LLC and Lexi-Comp, Inc. ‚