Description of the procedure
A cataract is a cloudy film that grows over the eye's lens and impairs vision. In cataract surgery, the clouded eye lens is replaced with a clear plastic lens. This can restore vision in cases where vision has been impaired because of cataracts. This procedure is generally performed under local anesthetic, as an outpatient procedure. A hospital stay is not necessary.
When should this procedure be performed?
The decision to have the surgery is based on a discussion between you and your physician.
Why is this procedure performed?
This surgery is performed if a cataract prevents you from going about the activities of your daily life.
Are there any risks and precautions I should know about?
98% of cataract surgeries are performed each year without serious complications. However, risks of this procedure do include bleeding, glaucoma, infection, inflammation, retinal detachment, and swelling.
Contact your doctor immediately if you experience increased eye redness, light flashes or floaters (moving spots in front of the eye), nausea or vomiting, pain that persists after use of pain-relieving medication, or loss of vision.