A cataract is a condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to vision impairment. Cataract surgery involves removal of the cloudy lens and replacement with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
Here at Vision Clinic Sydney, we will provide a detailed step-by-step guide on how cataract surgery is performed, what to expect before, during, and after the procedure, and answer common questions patients may have.
What is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a minimally invasive procedure performed by an eye surgeon to treat cataracts. Cataracts cause vision problems such as blurred vision, double vision, sensitivity to bright lights, and vision loss.
Eye doctors often recommend cataract surgery when cataracts begin to interfere with daily activities like reading, driving, or recognising faces. In some cases, your eye surgeon may suggest cataract surgery even if you experience symptoms like double vision or significant vision impairment, as the surgery may restore clear vision and improve your quality of life.
Step-by-Step Guide to Cataract Surgery
Pre-Surgery Preparation:
Eye Examination: Before the surgery, your eye doctor will conduct a comprehensive eye exam to measure the size and shape of your eyes. This helps determine the correct type of intraocular lens (IOL) to implant.
Discussion with Your Surgeon: Your surgeon will explain the procedure, discuss the risks and benefits, and address any questions you may have. You will also receive instructions on how to prepare for the surgery, such as avoiding food and drink for a few hours before the procedure.
Administering Anaesthesia:
Numbing the Eye: Cataract surgery is performed under local anaesthesia. Eye drops are used to numb the eye, ensuring you won’t feel any pain during the procedure.
Sedation: You may also be given a mild sedative to help you relax. However, you will be awake during the surgery.
Making the Incision:
Small Incision: The surgeon makes a tiny incision on the cornea (the front part of the eye). This small incision allows the insertion of surgical instruments.
Accessing the Cloudy Lens: Through this incision, the surgeon accesses the clouded natural lens.
Breaking Up the Cloudy Lens:
Ultrasound Probe: An ultrasonic probe is inserted through the incision. This probe emits ultrasound waves to break up (emulsify) the cloudy natural lens into smaller pieces.
Aspirating the Lens: The emulsified lens fragments are then gently suctioned out of the eye. This method, known as phacoemulsification, is considered the least traumatic to the eye.
Implanting the Intraocular Lens (IOL):
Inserting the Artificial Lens: Once the natural lens is removed, the surgeon implants a clear artificial lens (IOL) into the remaining lens capsule. The IOL unfolds and positions itself in the correct location to restore clear vision.
Types of IOLs: There are various types of IOLs, including monofocal, extended depth of field (EDOF), trifocal, and toric lenses, which can correct vision at different distances. Your surgeon will discuss which type of IOL is best suited for your individual needs and lifestyle.
Closing the Incision:
Self-Sealing Incision: The incision made during the surgery is usually self-sealing and does not require stitches. The natural pressure inside the eye keeps the incision closed.
Applying Eye Drops: Antibiotic and steroid eye drops are applied to prevent infection and promote healing.
Post-Surgery Care:
Immediate Recovery: The surgery typically takes about 15-30 minutes, and most patients can go home the same day. You will need someone to drive you home as your vision may be blurry immediately after the procedure.
Follow-Up Appointments: You’ll have follow-up appointments with your eye doctor to monitor healing and ensure the IOL is functioning correctly.
What to Expect After Cataract Surgery?
After cataract surgery, it’s common to experience mild discomfort, light sensitivity, and blurred vision for a few days.
Your eye doctor will prescribe eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. Most patients notice an improvement in their vision within a few days, but it may take a few weeks for the eye to fully heal.
- Vision Improvement: Patients often report significantly clearer vision, with improved colour perception and reduced glare.
- Healing Time: While initial recovery is quick, full healing and stabilisation of vision can take several weeks.
- Restrictions: Your surgeon may advise you to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and rubbing your eye for a few weeks to prevent complications.
Potential Risks and Complications
While cataract surgery is generally safe, as with any surgical procedure, there are potential risks. These may include:
- Infection
- Bleeding
- Swelling
- Retinal detachment
- Glaucoma
- Capsular opacity
Your surgeon will discuss these risks in detail and how they can be minimised or managed.
How To Book an Assessment
To request an appointment at Vision Clinic Sydney or if you have an enquiry, please contact us via the following ways:
Call or message us: +6129 222 9188
Email us: reception@visionclinicsydney.com.au
Book online via our website
FAQs
How long does cataract surgery take?
Cataract surgery takes approximately 15-30 minutes per eye, depending on the complexity of the case and the condition of the clouded lens. However, you should expect to spend a few hours at the day surgery for preparation, the procedure, and initial recovery. After the surgery, your eye surgeon may advise you to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes as they adjust to the new artificial lens.
How long do I have to wait between cataract surgery on each eye?
If you need cataract surgery in both eyes, the surgeries are usually scheduled one to two weeks apart. This allows the first eye to recover from cataract surgery before performing surgery on the second eye. The timing also depends on how quickly the cataract forms in the second eye and your overall healing process.
Does cataract surgery hurt?
Cataract surgery is generally painless due to the use of local anaesthesia, which numbs the eye. You may feel slight pressure during the procedure but no pain. Mild discomfort is possible after the surgery, which can be managed with prescribed medications. In some cases, you may experience temporary irritation or sensitivity, which is normal as your eye heals and adjusts to the new lens.
What happens during cataract surgery?
During cataract surgery, the clouded lens is emulsified using ultrasound waves and removed from the eye. A clear new artificial lens is then implanted to restore vision. The procedure is minimally invasive, with a small incision made in the cornea to access the lens.
Are you awake during cataract surgery?
Yes, you are awake during cataract surgery. Local anaesthesia numbs the eye, and a mild sedative may be given to help you relax. You will not see the surgery happening but may be aware of light and movement. After the procedure, it is recommended to wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from bright lights as they recover from the surgery.
General Information Disclaimer: The content provided here is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your health professional with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. The information on this site is general in nature and may not reflect current medical developments or research. Your reliance on any information provided by this site is solely at your own risk.
