Cataract Surgery Treatment

When vision is impaired significantly enough because of a cataract, the eye surgeon will plan a cataract surgery to remove the lens and place an artificial lens in the eye. The procedure is performed on an outpatient basis.

Preparing for Surgery

Before the procedure, the surgeon will examine the eye that needs surgery to plan what type of lens to implant in the eye. The patient also has to undergo a physical examination to be cleared for surgery.

Day of Surgery

On the day of the surgery, topical anesthesia will be applied to the eye, the eye will be cleaned and the patient will be covered in sterile drapes.

Surgical Procedure

The surgeon makes a small incision in the eye, inserts an instrument that breaks up the cloudy cataract and removes the lens. An artificial lens is usually then placed in the eye.

Postoperative Follow Up

After the surgery, the doctor will place a protective shield over the eye and prescribe eye drops. The patient will need to avoid strenuous exercise, straining and bending up to a week after surgery.

Potential Complications

Glaucoma can occur after cataract surgery. More rarely a serious infection of the eye or a detached retina can occur.