- 17 Apr, 2025
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The Process of Cataract Surgery: What to Expect Before, During, and After the Procedure
Cataracts are the optic condition in which a cloudy lens blocks the light from entering
its natural passage, which causes sight difficulties.
In most cases, cataracts happen again, yet they have many other causes that are attached
to other medical conditions such as a traumatic eye injury, diabetes,
and prolonged exposure to UV light.
Cataracts prevent the eye from shaping sharp images.
Also, it causes glare and makes colors fade. If not treated properly and on time,
cataracts might cause blindness to the eye.
Therefore, cataract removal surgeries are well known worldwide.
The different cataract surgeries, either traditional or advanced, are known for their safe nature.
Additionally, the patient outcomes are always positive and spot the light on many pros over any minor con.
Hence, within the coming lines, Mo Academy will be illustrating the process of cataract surgery from head to bottom.
Additionally, we will discuss with you the different types of intraocular lenses that can replace
the removed part of the lens.
Definitely, we will give you a glimpse of the knowledgeable realm you will be part of through
Mo Academy’s Cataract/Phaco courses.
You can already gain a lot when you check Mo Academy’s
Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery and Cataract Surgery Steps.
Preparing for Cataract Surgery: What Happens Before the Procedure?
Ophthalmologists prepare patients for the process of cataract surgery through multiple steps.
Firstly, thorough eye exams have to be run in order to check for the eye’s overall health.
Through the eye examination, they check on the eye’s shape and size in order to determine
the type and size of the IOL to be placed inside the eye, phakic IOL implantation.
A detailed medical history discussion happens between the optic surgeon and the patient.
It is mandatory to know about any kind of allergies you have as well as the medication intake history.
Prior to the surgery, you might get asked to use antibiotic eye drops or anti-inflammatories
to prepare your eye for the surgery.
Also, surgeons can demand you to fast a certain number of hours before the surgery.
Usually, you are asked to stop drinking or eating after midnight before the surgery.
Moreover, some clinics do a pre-operation visit.
During this visit, they go over what to expect, ask you to sign a consent form,
and check your vitals like your blood pressure.
In case you have cataracts in both eyes, surgeons agree with you prior to the surgery
on which eye they will start with, as they usually do one eye at a time.
Step-by-Step: The Cataract Surgery Procedure
The process of cataract surgery takes from 15 to 30 minutes, as it is a uniquely simple and fast surgery.
Arrival and Anesthesia:
After you arrive at the clinic or hospital, you change into the operation gown
and get prepped for the anesthesia.
In the process of cataract surgery, the anesthesia includes eye drops and injections in some
other cases in order to numb the eye and prevent any irritation.
Making the Incision:
The incision is made with a sharp tool in order to make the access for the cataract part easier.
This incision is relatively very small so that it does not require stitches later.
Removing the Cloudy Lens:
This part of the process of cataract surgery is known as Phacoemulsification.
Ultrasound waves are used to break up the cloud effect into fragments and small
pieces so that they can easily be suctioned out.
Phacoemulsification Cataract Surgery is a brilliant source to get any confusion of yours cleared out.
Inserting the New Lens:
A foldable lens is placed inside the eye to replace the removed part.
Then, once inside the eye, the lens unfolds to cover the front part of the cornea.
The type of this lens differs based on the shape, type, and size of the eye.
Recovery Room:
You will stay in the recovery room to rest for a while, then you will be asked to leave.
For, the process of Cataract surgery is an outpatient one,
so you will not stay long at the clinic or the hospital
Recovery: What to Expect After Cataract Surgery
Mild discomfort and irritation are normal to happen after the surgery.
You will be prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and inflammation.
Usually, you will be given an eye shield at first to cover the eye from any external harm.
Your vision is expected to clear up within the first 3 days.
Sensitivity to light, mild redness, and tearing or dry eye are all normal side effects.
Additionally, you will be asked to avoid certain activities such as carrying heavy weights,
bending, swimming, using eye makeup, or driving your car.
You will need to be consistent with your follow-ups.
Your first follow-up is usually within the first 24 to 48 hours.
Within these visits, the surgeon ensures that the process of cataract surgery is functioning as intended,
and they adjust medications accordingly.
Conclusion:
The process of cataract surgery is very simple in nature, yet critical in results.
This explains why it is a globally used optic method to repair the eye and remove
the cloudy effect that disrupts the vision.
With Mo Academy, you will be aware of how the whole order of the process of cataract surgery goes.
You will get to know what preparations you will go through, including the medications.
Additionally, you will be taken through the journey of the process of cataract surgery itself.
As mentioned, it is simple, yet it is customized as per the medical needs of each patient.
Your role is not done until you follow up consistently after the surgery and abide by the recommended
instructions of the surgeon.
Mo Academy offers a wide range of courses and training that serve as your absolute
breakdown of the ophthalmology world.
Theoretical and practical knowledge are always to be found at Mo Academy.
All you need to do is Contact us.