Eye Cataracts
We have all of the information you need to know about eye cataract surgery care including information about eye cataracts and whether the condition requires cataract eye surgery. We will also provide some helpful advice and tips for caring for this condition after surgery, as well. Keep reading to learn more about this condition of the eyes and how it may affect you.
First, we will explain more about what this surgery entails and who might need it. When the inner lens part of the eye becomes cloudy or difficult to see through, the condition is known as cataracts. This condition can affect the vision, which can make other areas of life, rather difficult. This surgery is actually cataract lens replacement because it consists of removal of the cataract-affected intraocular (inner) lens through a small incision and replacing the opaque, natural lens with a clear lens implant.
The after-care for this procedure is minimal and does not require an overnight hospital stay. The doctor will most likely send the patient home with an eye patch or eye cover to protect the eye, as well as, prescribe a helpful cataract eye drop to promote healing. The patient should wait at least a week before performing any strenuous activity, heavy lifting, or before being around any possible contaminants (to avoid infection), as well.
This condition of having the eyes cataract is more common in older individuals. It is estimated that about 60% – 70% of individuals, ages 60-70 have been affected by this condition. This surgery works to repair and restore vision, at the very least, to the point where the cataracts began.
This surgery has been performed since the mid 60s; however, it was not formally approved for practice in the U.S. before this surgery received the FDA seal of approval in 1981. These surgeries were performed without the use of an implant and those who had the cataract removed were required to wear thick, heavy glasses or special contact lenses in order to improve and correct vision.
You may want to consider this surgery if one of the following conditions is present: driving and reading road signs has become difficult, especially at night; your vision is affecting your performance at work; your vision is interfering with your home or extracurricular activities; falling or stumbling as a result of poor vision; increased dependence on others because of vision problems; your vision is suffering even with prescription eyewear; or if the condition is bothering you.
We hope that you have learned some helpful information regarding this procedure. Consult your physician to set up an appointment to determine whether you may be a prime candidate for this type of operation. Eye cataract surgery, today is a safe, simple, and effective method of removing the condition known as cataracts.