Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery, also called lens replacement surgery, is the removal of the natural cloudy lens of the eye (also called “crystalline lens”) and replace it with an artificial transparent lens to improve vision.

Symptoms are:

• Blurry or cloudy vision.
• Photophobia (sensitivity to light).
• Decrease in overall quality of vision.

Preparing for cataract surgery

• Full eye exam
• Ultrasound measurement before the procedure is to be done to determine the exact size of the lens.
• Doctor will ask about your past medical history and may give you eye drops to begin using before the surgery.
• Cataract surgery is usually done in one day surgery centre or hospital, so you won’t need to stay overnight. You are not allowed to drive or work after the procedure because of anaesthesia sedation.
• Your provider may ask you to not eat any solid food 6 hours before your surgery. You should also avoid drinking alcohol at least 24 hours beforehand.

Procedure for cataract surgery                           

• Self-healed incision is made.
• Emulsification of the lens and aspiration are done.
• Intraocular lens is implanted.
• The incision heals by itself and the procedure is sutureless.

Post procedure / Home instructions

• You need to use eye drops, antibiotics and anti-inflammatory for a few weeks. You’ll also need to wear your protective eye shield while sleeping or napping for the first week or more.
• You will need to avoid:
• Heavy activity and any lifting over 20 pounds.
• Any activities that can stress the eye like exercising.
• Exposing your eye to water, since it can cause an infection. You’ll need to keep your eye closed while showering or bathing. Avoid swimming or sitting in a hot tub for at least two weeks.
• Any activity that would expose your healing eye to dust, grime or other infection-causing contaminants.

Related Treatments

Frequently Asked Questions