Introduction
The natural lens, like the cornea, makes sure that the light rays which enter the eye are properly focussed on to the retina. This results in a sharp image on the retina. The natural lens is transparent and clear which enables light to pass through it easily.
What is Cataract?
Clouding or opacification of the natural lens is cataract. Cataract caused by old age (most commonly) or other reasons affects the clarity and the visual acuity. The lens starts losing its transparenc and become transluscent and then opaque. Cataract is the most common cause of vision impairment and blindness in the world.
What are the Symptoms of cataract?
- Blurred vision
- Glare
- Double vision
- The need for more light when reading
- Decreased night vision
- frequent change of glasses
Senile cataract
Senile cataract is by far the most common type of cataract. Senile cataract can be compared to getting wrinkles and turning grey. Due to an aging population, this type of cataract is on the increase.
When Is It Time To Consider Cataract Surgery?
Time for cataract surgery depends on many factors including your quality of life, your occupational needs, personal health, grading of cataract, associated complications (if any), etc. it is the individual requirement of the patient and sooner you get operated you experience a much better quality of life.
As a patient, you owe it to yourself to take care of your body, including your eyes. Your doctor can help you decide the best time to have surgery if you develop cataracts. For some people, despite their age, cataracts remain a minor problem. If cataracts do impair the quality of your life however, you deserve the opportunity to do something about it, with as little rest as possible.
How are cataracts treated?
The cataract is treated by surgery. An eye surgeon will remove your cloudy lens and in most cases, replace it with a clear, man-made focusing lens (intraocular lens implant, or IOL). The replacement lens implant remains permanently inside your eye and does not degrade. Cataract surgery is usually a day care procedure, which means that you will go home on the day of your operation.
What surgical procedures are available for cataract surgery?
Apart from conventional surgical methods, the most advanced technology PHACOEMULSIFICATION is the most preferred mode of treatment. It is highly safe, easy, efficient and restores good vision as compared to conventional methods.
Is the surgery carried out under local anaesthetic?
YES. 99.9 % cases are performed under local or topical anesthesia. Rare cases may require general anesthesia.
What are the risks involved in undergoing cataract surgery?
The potential risks associated with cataract surgery are very, very rare. However, they include blindness, haemorrhage, infection, glaucoma, retinal detachment, capsule tear and vitreous displacement, wound dehiscence and iris prolapse, cystoid macular oedema, deterioration in diabetic retinopathy, intraocular lens implant dislocation and lens implant power miscalculation. Some patients may require further surgery following cataract surgery.
Can I have non-surgical methods of treating cataract?
NO. At present only surgical correction is the measure to treat cataract.
When will I be able to see clearly after cataract surgery?
Most patients see good within a day or two after cataract surgery. Few patients may see blur in the initial 1-2 weeks due to slower healing responses which improves over a period of few weeks.
Is Jnanananda Empanelled with insurance packages
Yes Jnanananda Eye Hospital, a variety of the selection of IOL depends on the status of the cataract, patients needs, doctors recommendation and insurance packages. Details of these can be seen on the website and also counselors provide the patient with complete information prior to cataract surgery.
AFTER CATARACT SURGERY
Will I Require Any Eye Medication Following Surgery?
Yes. Few medications will be started following your cataract surgery which will fasten up healing and recovery. It is very essential that you instill these medications as per the doctors advice and never miss a dose for 6 weeks after surgery.
Avoid Touching Or Rubbing The Operated Eye.
No Head Bath Or Face Wash For At Least 7 Days.
Will I need glasses following surgery?
You may require glasses following a cataract surgery depending on your pre-operative refractive status, type of lens implantation and healing response of your eye. After about 3 weeks of surgery, you will be provided with glasses (if required)