Cataract surgery

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Cataract Surgery

What Does It Involve?

The most common technique for cataract surgery is phacoemulsification, which involves removing the opaque crystalline lens (the natural lens of the eye) through an incision measuring less than three millimetres. The cataract is typically broken up using ultrasound, although since 2012, the femtosecond laser has also been incorporated into the procedure for greater precision, especially in complex cases.

Once the cataract is broken up, it is aspirated through a tube, and an intraocular lens is inserted into the lens capsule, preventing the need for thick corrective glasses.

When Is It Carried Out?

  • Cataract surgery is generally recommended when:
    • There is a rise in intraocular pressure.
    • The cataract is causing uveitis (inflammation).
    • Vision impairment interferes with daily activities.
  • Surgery is now often performed earlier than before, thanks to advancements in surgical technology, allowing for earlier intervention. In some cases, cataract surgery is performed for refractive purposes, especially in patients with presbyopia, myopia, or high hyperopia. The procedure can help improve vision and eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses for many daily activities.

Prior Examination:

Before surgery, the ophthalmologist performs several tests to assess the type, size, and location of the cataract, as well as the overall health of the eye. These tests include:

  • Visual acuity test
  • Eye pressure test
  • Biomicroscopy
  • OQAS (HD Analyzer)
  • Corneal topography
  • Endothelial cell count
  • Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT)
  • Examination of the fundus
  • Biometrics

During Surgery:

  • Cataract surgery takes about 10 minutes and is usually performed under topical anaesthesia (anaesthetic drops), meaning no covering is required after surgery, and the patient can see immediately.
  • In certain cases or for more complex cataracts, a local anaesthetic around the eye may be used.
  • Patients are asked to cooperate by focusing on the microscope light. In cases where this is not possible, the local anaesthetic is used, and the eye will be covered for several hours post-surgery.

After Surgery:

  • After surgery, patients can return to a normal lifestyle but should avoid physical activities that involve sudden or violent movements initially.
  • Important post-surgery care includes:
    • Avoid rubbing the eye.
    • Refrain from sleeping face down at night.
    • Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect the eye and reduce glare, which is common after surgery.