How Do I Treat My Cataracts?

February 28th, 2019

Developing cataracts is a natural part of the aging process. While it is inevitable that you’ll get them, they are easy to treat.

Thanks to modern cataract surgery, removing cataracts has never been easier or safer. Still nervous about having them removed? Keep reading for more information on cataract surgery!

How Does It Work?

Cataract surgery is sometimes referred to as refractive lens exchange or RLE. This is due to the way that it works when performed.

Unlike LASIK, which reshape your corneas, RLE replaces the lens. Once the lens has been successfully removed, it is replaced with an IOL, or intraocular lens.

This is because cataracts grow inside the eyes lens. As a result, cataracts cannot get removed on their own without removing the lens as well.

The surgery follows these steps:

• Your eye is first numbed using a localized anesthetic. This will prevent you from feeling any kind of pain as your natural lens is being removed.
• An incision is then made in your cornea. The cut is clean and precise, using powerful lasers.
• Once the incision is completed, the lens gets completely broken apart. This either uses more lasers or it’s completed using a process called phacoemulsification. Phacoemulsification utilizes a small probe that emits ultrasonic waves. The ultrasonic waves then break apart or emulsify, the lens. In either case, gentle suction is applied to the opening to remove the pieces of lens.
• The IOL is carefully installed where the natural lens of the eye once was.
• The incision is then closed. This almost always requires no stitches or glue; the opening heals over time.

Before undergoing cataract surgery, you’ll have to follow instructions from your cataract surgeon. These include discontinuing certain medications and using antibiotic eye drops.

You’ll also need to refrain from eating or drinking for 12 hours before the procedure. Since there is anesthetic involved, you’ll need to find a ride both to and from the procedure.

You will not be able to drive until your cataract surgeon clears you later on. Most patients are usually cleared to drive after a few days.

What to Expect After Cataract Surgery

Vision improvement after cataract surgery is noticeable very quickly. Within a few days, you will experience more variety in colors, clearer sight, and less pain from glare.

Full recovery from the surgery may take a few months. Follow all your postoperative instructions to avoid any harm to your sensitive eyes. This means you should avoid overexerting yourself during recovery! A good recovery is all about relaxing.

Thanks to IOLs, you may experience better vision than you’ve ever had before! This is because IOLs can be custom tailored to your eyesight needs.

There are many different varieties to choose from, depending on your lifestyle needs. This is something you should discuss with your eye doctor before your screening. They can answer any questions you may have and recommend the best kind of IOL for you.

Ready to schedule your cataract screening? Contact the Laser Eye Center in Huntsville today!