Frequently Asked Questions
on Cataract Surgery
What is a cataract?
A cataract is a loss of transparency, or clouding, of the natural lens of the eye. Cataract is the leading cause of blindness worldwide with 4 out of 10 persons over 60 years old developing it. The lens is a clear tissue located behind the iris or colored part of the eye that helps focus light on the retina. (see illustration below).
How do cataracts lead to blindness?
A smudge or dirt on camera lens will result in a hazy and blurred picture since light cannot pass through it. Our eyes work very much like that. Objects are focused on the retina at different distances through the lens. Once the lens losses its transparency and turns opaque, the light is not able to reach the retina resulting to a blurred image and even to a point of blindness.
What are the causes of cataract?
The most frequent cause of cataract is the natural ageing process. Other causes are eye trauma, smoking, poor nutrition, prolonged exposure to UV rays, systemic diseases like diabetes and certain medications such steroids. In few instances, some babies are born with it, known as “congenital” cataracts.
What are the symptoms of cataract?
The main symptom is gradual loss of vision. Glare, halos, poor night vision and dimness of color vision are among others which may interfere with your lifestyle such as driving, work, reading and other activities.
How is cataract treated?
The only treatment for cataract is surgery. Presently, there is no drug that can restore the lens’ transparency. Though eyeglasses will temporarily help, it also cannot correct the vision since light rays cannot pass through the clouded lens. With the state-of-the-art technology available today, cataract surgery is performed using a microincisional procedure with very minimal pain and discomfort.
What is the state-of-the-art procedure for cataract surgery today?
“Phacoemulsification” (Phaco) Cataract Surgery is an out-patient procedure and is so far the safest and most effective today. The diseased lens is removed through a tiny incision and is replaced with a foldable intraocular lens. Incision is about 3mm only (just 1/8 of an inch!) which makes it self-sealing translating into a “no-stitch” type operation. Surgery is usually completed in just 15 to 30 minutes.
What are the advantages of undergoing a “Phaco” Cataract Surgery with foldable lens implant?
§ Minimal discomfort during and after the surgery
§ More speedy recovery of vision
§ Reduced risk of induced astigmatism
§ Less dependence on eyeglasses after the operation
Is it necessary to wait for a cataract to be “ripe” before
surgery?
With today’s technology and with the advanced techniques and
equipment available at The Eye Laser Center, the answer is “NO”.
Most ophthalmologists will agree that it is safer to proceed with
a cataract surgery on its earlier stage of development rather than
waiting until the cataract is advanced and very dense.
What are required prior to the surgery?
Since patient’s safety is always our concern, The Eye Laser Center requires them to undergo a comprehensive eye examination to determine suitability for the procedure. This includes visual acuity test, measurement of pressure inside the eye, pupil dilation, cornea measurements and tests to gauge the size of the eye.
What to expect during the surgery?
Patient will be asked to arrive at The Eye Laser Center at least an hour prior to the surgery. A number of eye drop medications will be applied on the eye to prevent pain, reduce inflammation and the risk of infection, and to fully dilate the pupil.
Once pupil is fully dilated, phacoemulsification shall be implemented to remove cataract through a small (maximum of 3mm) tunnel incision. It uses ultrasonic vibrations to break the cataract into smaller fragments. These fragments are then suctioned using the same device. Foldable intraocular lens is then implanted permanently to help focus light into the retina. Stitches are not usually required for closure.
What post-operative care should be done?
Soon after the surgery, each patient shall be asked for a follow-up visit (the next day or within 72 hours and then again several weeks after the 1st follow-up visit) to ensure that all is well. Some patients will also be asked to wear an eye shield especially during travel and while sleeping. During the first few weeks from the day of the surgery, the eye should not be rubbed nor pressure be placed on the eye through the eyelid. Eye medications will be required and should be strictly followed.
How soon can I resume with my normal activities?
Many patients are surprised at how clear their vision is after cataract surgery that a great majority of them resume normal activities on the day or the day after surgery. Activities such as reading, watching TV, and light work will not hurt the operated eye.
When is the best time to obtain new eyeglasses?
For some patients, dependence on eyeglasses is of lesser
degree after the cataract surgery but still, it is recommended to
visit an optometrist/optician 4 to 6 weeks after the surgery.