Cataract surgery is a procedure in which the cataract (cloudy natural lens) is removed and replaced with an artificial lens. This lens serves as a permanent solution to eliminate the cloudy vision and related symptoms associated with cataracts.
Each lens is selected based on detailed measurements taken prior to the procedure to ensure the best possible visual outcome is reached for every patient. Cataract surgery is one of the most common medical procedures performed around the world. This painless small incision procedure generally takes only about 15-30 minutes and can produce immediate visual improvement. In most cases only local anaesthesia is necessary.
Although vision improvement may be immediate, post-surgery patients are asked to avoid tasks that could lead to unnecessary complications in recovery. Following these guidelines will provide the best possible outcome for your immediate and future visual outcome as it allows the eye time to completely heal and avoids the risk of infection or shifting of the new lens. These restrictions include:
- Avoid water in your eyes for a period of 3-5 days -Avoid Exposure to dirty or dusty environments for 5-10 days -Avoid Heavy lifting (<10lbs) and bending over at the waist -Limit or avoid eye strain activities such as reading, computer work and driving for period of about 10-14 days -Surgical patients are also giving more detailed verbal and written post-op instructions at the time of the procedure.
YAG Capsulotomy
The YAG (Yttrium Aluminum Garnet) laser has been developed, and remains the standard of care, for posterior capsule opacification (PCO) sometimes termed ‘secondary cataracts’. PCO occurs in about 10% of patients following cataract surgery and may present within months or years after the procedure. These ‘secondary cataracts’ occur when epithelial cells proliferate into the posterior capsule, resulting in opacification and decreased visual acuity. The vision may become cloudy, blurred or may be associated with significant glare. The YAG laser allows for a safe and quick in-office treatment of PCO. Following YAG treatment there is no risk of the condition to redevelop. If you present with these symptoms your ophthalmologist will perform a complete ophthalmic examination to determine if PCO is present. If so, the ophthalmologist will offer a YAG Capsulotomy treatment and discuss the associates risks, benefits and alternatives.
