CATARACT SURGERY

WHAT IS CATARACT SURGERY?
Cataract surgery is performed by a medical ophthalmologist. The operation is usually done under local anesthesia, and the patient can often return home on the same day. During the operation the opacified lens is removed by an ultrasound system and replaced with a permanent artificial intraocular lens. This lens is inserted into the eye at the site previously occupied by the lens, restoring the vision.
WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF THIS OPERATION?
Nowadays, cataract surgery is a relatively simple and fast procedure, with a success rate of more than 90%. However, it is important to stress that as with any surgical procedure, there can never be an absolute guarantee of success.
WHAT IS THE IDEAL TIME TO HAVE A CATARACT OPERATION?
Cataracts should be operated on when the loss of vision makes it difficult to perform normal daily activities.
Cataracts do not need to “mature” before they can be removed, as was thought a few years ago. On the contrary, cataracts can and should be operated on at a far less advanced stage of their development.
WHAT HAPPENS AFTER THE SURGERY?
Once the lens has been removed, the cataract will not reappear. However, in a few cases, opacification of the natural structure supporting the intraocular lens (capsule) may occur. In these cases the ophthalmologist can restore the patient’s vision using a simple laser treatment.