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Cataract removal is a procedure to remove a cataract . A cataract is a clouding of the eye's lens.
The lens of the eye is responsible for focusing images onto the back of the eye. It is normally transparent. With cataracts, the lens begins to cloud over time. This will gradually cause a loss in vision.
Cataract removal is done when the cataract is causing problems with vision. The surgery improves vision.
Complications are rare, but no procedure is completely free of risk. If you are planning to have cataract surgery, your doctor will review a list of possible complications, which may include:
Some factors that may increase the risk of complications include:
Your doctor may do the following:
Local anesthesia will be used. It will make the area numb.
There are two main types of cataract removal.
Most cataract removal surgeries are done using this technique. An ultrasound probe will break the cloudy lens into tiny fragments. A tiny incision will be made into the eye. The fragments will then be vacuumed out through the incision. A lens implant will be inserted to replace the affected lens. Stitches are often not needed. You may notice an improvement in your vision soon after surgery.
An incision will be made in the eye. The cataract will be removed in one piece through the incision. The lens implant will be inserted to replace the affected lens. Because the incision will be larger, you will need stitches. The recovery will take longer with this technique.
After either procedure, a patch may be placed over your eye.
The process takes less than 1 hour.
Most patients report no significant pain during the procedure. You may feel pulling or pressure sensations.
Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions , which may include:
You should notice improvements in your vision, although at first your vision may actually be worse than prior to the surgery. Every eye heals differently. One eye may heal more quickly or slowly than the other. Since each lens is individually fitted for each patient, you will likely need weaker glasses or contacts. You may not need them at all after this procedure.
After arriving home, contact your doctor if any of the following occurs:
RESOURCES:
American Academy of Ophthalmology
http://www.aao.org/
American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS)
http://www.eyesurgeryeducation.com/
References:
Agency for Health Care Research and Quality website. Available at: http://www.ahrq.gov/ .
American Academy of Ophthalmology website. Available at: http://www.aao.org .
Last reviewed November 2009 by Eric L. Berman, MD
Please be aware that this information is provided to supplement the care provided by your physician. It is neither intended nor implied to be a substitute for professional medical advice. CALL YOUR HEALTHCARE PROVIDER IMMEDIATELY IF YOU THINK YOU MAY HAVE A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider prior to starting any new treatment or with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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