Cataract Surgery – What You Need to Know and What to Expect

1. Cataract Surgery – What You Need to Know and What to Expect If you have a cataract, you may have noticed your vision getting cloudy. At this point, your doctor may recommend cataract surgery, which is the removal of the lens of your eye, replacing it with an artificial lens. This is a very common and safe procedure and once completed, your vision will be improved. Why Should I Have Cataract Surgery? Why Should I Have Cataract Surgery? If you have a cataract in one eye or both eyes, it doesn't necessarily mean you need surgery. Some people don't notice any changes to their vision for years. Others are able to improve their vision by wearing glasses, relying on bright lights or using a magnifying glass. As the cataract grows, the symptoms become more problematic. Maybe you have noticed blurred vision, double vision or you have problems working on a computer or reading. You may notice that anything requiring clear eyesight is problematic, lowering your quality of life. Another symptom may be poor night vision, making it harder to drive once it gets dark. Being sensitive to headlights is another sign that you may have cataracts. If you have advanced cataracts you may fail the vision test of your driver's test. When you have this eye condition, which is very common, you may find your eyes become sensitive to the sun or bright lights. This can make being outdoors uncomfortable, harder to play certain games or sports, such as skiing. Cataracts can make you more sensitive to glare from the sun. You might see a halo around bright lights. This can keep you from being outdoors as much as you'd like. It also makes it harder to play some sports, such as skiing or golf. Cataract Surgery Preparation Cataract Surgery Preparation A week or two before you go for cataract surgery, you will visit your ophthalmologist so they can carry out some tests. These tests measure the size and shape of your eye, along with determining the best artificial lens for your eye. Cataract Surgery Cataract Surgery You are awake throughout the surgery, but you will not feel pain. The doctor often gives you relaxation medication. On average, cataract surgery takes no more than one hour to complete. This involves making a tiny cut in the eye and the ophthalmologist uses laser or a small tool to break up and remove the lens. The new lens is then placed in the eye and the cut is closed. This is an outpatient surgery, so once the team are happy with the results, you can recover in the comfort of your own home. In the event you have cataracts in both eyes, you will have two separate surgeries. The one eyes will be done a few weeks apart from the other eye, giving it time to heal. Are there Side Effects? Are there Side Effects? Side effects are not common, but they can occur, as with any surgery. Some of the most common side effects include eye swelling and infection, bleeding and retinal detachment. Drooping eyelid and temporary rise in eye pressure are also seen in some patients. Post Surgery Post Surgery After your cataract surgery, you may notice itching or a scratchy feeling in your eye for a few days. This is completely common. You may find it harder to see in bright light during this time. You should wear sunglasses if you go out and refrain from driving until your eye has healed and your vision has returned. You will be given eye drops which help to prevent infection. You use the eye drops for a few days after the surgery. Do not lift heavy items, reducing the risk of pressure on your eye during the healing process. About Us: About Us: Mahi Muqit is a leading consultant ophthalmologist, cataract and vitreoretinal surgeon at two private clinics in London, United Kingdom. He provides patients with superior service and support with a range of surgical procedures to meet their eye sight requirements. He has built up a solid reputation for his eye services in the London area as an expert eye doctor and surgeon offering surgical retina, medical retina and complex cataract surgery. He also offers surgery to patients suffering from diabetic retinopathy. Mahi Muqit is a member of the Royal College of Ophthalmologists, a member of the British and Eire Association of Vitreoretinal Surgeons and the UK and Ireland Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgeons. To find out more, visit https://www.retinasurgeon.uk.com/.