Before Undergoing Cataract Surgery San Antonio Patients Should Know What To Expect

By Coleen Torres


A cataract is a disorder of the eye characterized by the clouding of the normally clear lens. This usually occurs as a result of aging, but it can sometimes be caused by an injury as well, if left untreated, the patient will eventually be unable to see with the affected eye. Surgery is used to correct this condition effectively. If interested in the prospect of cataract surgery San Antonio TX patients must discuss it with their opthalmologist.

This procedure is termed a "phacoemulsification" and is usually done with a local anesthetic. A surgical laser is used to make a small incision in the side of the cornea in order that an ultrasound device can be inserted which will emit vibrations that cause the diseased lens to disintegrate into tiny particles which are then suctioned out of the site.

In place of the lens, an artificial one is implanted. This type of lens is called an "intraocular lens" and it may be made from transparent plastic, silicone, or acrylic, and it requires no special care once it's in place. It serves exactly the same purpose as the original lens, to direct light onto the retina.

Patients are able to return home an hour or two after the procedure since it is performed on an outpatient basis and generally can be completed in under an hour's time. Most people are awake during the operation but may be given a sedative. The surgeon will only operate on a single eye, so those who require cataract removal in both will need to undergo a second operation several weeks later.

It is normal to experience a bit of discomfort afterwards, and the eye may water easily and be more sensitive to the sun. Pain is usually mild and won't last long, easily controlled with over-the-counter analgesics, and wearing sunglasses will be helpful when outside in the sun. Just a day of rest with no strenuous activity is really all that's needed to recover, and eye drops will be prescribed to help prevent infection.

The patient should note an almost immediate improvement in his or her vision, as early as the day after surgery. A new glasses prescription will be provided to the patient, and after a month, the full extent of the improvement should be realized. Following the doctor's orders where the use of any prescribed medications is concerned, is essential to obtaining optimal results.

Lens implants are permanent fixtures which should not need to be replaced and are designed to last for the lifetime of the patient. Although it is possible in some people who undergo the procedure, for the cells in the surrounding ocular membrane to affect the function of the new lens. This typically happens several months or just over a year after surgery.

If a patient is found to be experiencing membrane overgrowth that is clouding the surface of the intraocular lens implant, the opthalmologist will perform and quick and painless procedure called a "YAG laser capsulotomy". This can be performed in the doctor's office and effectively restores normal eyesight immediately. The thing about cataracts is that they cannot grow back on an artificial lens, so there is no need to be concerned about that happening.




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