Clearer Vision, Brighter Future: What to Know About Cataract Surgery
If age has made your vision cloudy or blurry, you’re definitely not alone. Cataracts are a leading cause of vision loss for people as they age in the UK. Fortunately, modern medicine can provide a safe and effective answer to this dilemma – cataract surgery, which is also sometimes referred to as lens replacement surgery. It is one of the most frequently performed surgeries in the country, and it has restored sight and independence to millions.
But what, exactly, is cataract surgery? How does it work and what should you expect from the outcome? In this blog, we will guide you through everything you wanted to know about this revolutionary treatment.
What Are Cataracts?
A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s naturally clear lens, located behind the iris and pupil. This cloudiness develops over time and may come from age-related changes in the lens. Proteins in the lens gradually break down and clump, causing fuzzy or cloudy vision.
Common symptoms include:
- Clouded or dim vision
- Photophobia and glare
- Difficulty seeing at night
- A colour fade or yellowing
- Constantly updating prescription glasses or contact lenses
Cataracts tend to form gradually, and you may not be aware of any vision changes in the early stages. However, as they enlarge, they can cause serious impairments, including an inability to read, drive or recognise faces.
What is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a relatively simple and safe surgery that involves eliminating the eye’s clouded natural lens and replacing it with a clear artificial lens – (IOL) intraocular lens. This fresh lens clears up on your perspective.
The surgery usually lasts less than 30 minutes, and most patients are awake during the procedure because of local anaesthetic. A procedure called phacoemulsification, in which the surgeon makes a small incision in the eye and employs ultrasound waves to break up the clouded lens, is one of the most common. The pieces are taken out and a new lens is put in.
Today, there are different types of IOLs — monofocal, multifocal and toric IOLs — that provide a degree of customisation to best meet your vision needs.
What to Expect Before, During, and After Surgery
Before Surgery:
A thorough eye examination will be performed to evaluate the severity of the cataract to help ascertain which lens will be best for you. Your ophthalmologist may look for underlying eye conditions that could affect the results.
During Surgery:
The operation is generally performed as a day case, and you should be able to go home on the same day. The majority of patients experience little or no discomfort, complaining only of a “strange” sensation.
After Surgery:
For several weeks, you will need to use different prescription eye drops to combat infection and aid in the healing of the scar. It is usually three or four days before vision improves for most individuals. You should be fully recovered in 4 to 6 weeks. It’s important to go to follow-up appointments to see if your eye is healing as it should be.
Some patients continue to require reading glasses, and for many, other tasks will require glasses — especially if they chose a monofocal lens. Your surgeon will explain this to you prior to the operation.
Benefits and Risks of Cataract Surgery
Benefits:
- Restored vision clarity
- Better quality of life and independence
- Reduced need for glasses
- Rapid recovery and low rate of complication
Cataract surgery is over 98% successful in the UK and is one of the safest and most reliable treatments on offer.
Risks (although rare):
- Infection or inflammation
- Retinal detachment
- Increased eye pressure
- Posterior capsule opacification (clouding at the back of the lens)
All surgeries have risks, although complications are rare and can typically be addressed if they occur.
Is It Time to Consider Cataract Surgery?
If cataracts are affecting your lifestyle, causing difficulty for you to read, drive, see your computer, or do other activities, then perhaps it is time to explore surgery. By getting early treatment, you can improve your vision and reduce risk for other problems.
It’s also worth noting that putting off cataract surgery can mean more advanced cataracts that are more difficult to remove, with an increased risk of complications.
Take the First Step Towards Clearer Vision
If you or a family member are experiencing blurred or cloudy vision, don’t wait to seek help. Cataract surgery may be able to restore your vision and enhance your overall quality of life. At Chase Lodge Hospital, our dedicated ophthalmologists offer expert advice and the latest lens replacement technology, giving you the best chance of excellent vision.
For a conversation about this treatment, or to book an appointment with our specialists today!
👉 Find out more at the NHS Cataract Surgery Guide
Chase Lodge Hospital: Cataract – Clear the way to better vision.
