Cataracts are a clouding of the natural lens of the eye, which causes blurred vision. For elderly patients, cataracts are incredibly common. In fact, by the time Americans reach the age of 70, more than 50% either have a cataract or cataracts, or have already had at least one cataract surgery.

The two primary types of cataract surgeries:

1. Phacoemulsification (or simply phaco) is a cataract surgery technique in which a small entry point is made to one side of a patient’s cornea. A tiny probe is inserted into sub-corneal regions through the small entry point. The probe gives off ultrasonic waves that actually break up the clouded part of the lens enabling removal by suction. Phaco is the most opted for cataract alleviating surgical technique.
2. Extracapsular cataract surgery involves a long incision on the cornea. The clouded core of the affected lens is removed in one piece, without breaking it up with ultrasonic waves. Since there is a long incision on the cornea the patient recovery can be longer and the patient is advised to be careful not to bump or rub the eye for several months.

What happens after the cataract is removed?

Once the natural lens has been taken away, in most cases it is replaced with a synthetic lens called an IOL, or intraocular lens. IOLs require no maintenance and actually become fully integrated with the natural eye. The IOL focuses incoming light rays clearly and projects them onto the retina. Vision is improved and the IOL cannot be seen or felt. Deluxe or Premium IOLs can correct distance, near and intermediate vision. Toric IOLs can correct astigmatism.

What are the risks associated with cataract surgeries?

All surgical techniques involve risks. Even the most noninvasive surgery still involves the manipulation of bodily tissues, a process given to inherit levels of risk. Although cataract surgeries are performed hundreds of thousands of times every year in America alone, and are generally considered to be very safe, the following risks may still be encountered postoperatively:

• Infection;
• Bleeding;
• Reaction to certain prescribed medications;
• Slightly increased risk of retinal detachment;
• Vision flashes and “floaters”
• More…

There’s generally very little or no pain associated with cataract surgeries. Complications are few and success rates are very high. Remember that cataracts that do not receive prompt and effective medical intervention can lead to total loss of sight. Still, when entering into any surgical situation, you need to exercise caution and make sure that you have all of your questions answered thoroughly before the procedure. Talk to an experienced cataract surgeon today in order to make sure that cataract surgery is right for you.

Learn more about Deluxe Cataract surgery:
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