What happens during the procedure?
Cataract surgery is usually done with a local anesthetic, so you will be awake during the procedure.
There are two ways your doctor may perform cataract surgery.
In phacoemulsification, the cataract itself is removed but the outer layer of the eye lens remains. In this type of cataract surgery,
- Your doctor makes a small cut (1/8 inch) where the cornea (clear layer at the front and center of the eye) meets the sclera (white part of the eye).
- A tiny probe is inserted, which transmits ultrasound waves that break up the cataract.
- The broken pieces of the cataract are then suctioned out.
Extracapsular cataract extraction is performed when the cataract is more advanced. In this procedure,
a slightly larger cut (3/8 inch) is made where the cornea and sclera meet, and doctor removes the cataract in one piece.
In both procedures, once the cataract is removed, your doctor will insert a clear plastic lens. The entire surgery takes about 30 to 60 minutes.
How should I prepare for this procedure?
Prior to the surgery, your doctor will use an ultrasound to measure the size and shape of your eye lens in order to get the appropriate replacement and analyze if your retina is intact. Your doctor may also start you on antibiotic eye drops or ointment a day or so before the surgery.
Do not eat for 8 hours before the procedure. You may continue to drink clear liquids until 2 hours before the procedure. If your doctor has recommended different times, follow the timing recommended by your doctor.
Tell your doctor or prescriber about all prescription, over-the-counter (non-prescription), and herbal medications that you are taking. Also tell them about any medication allergies and medical conditions that you may have.
Ask your doctor or pharmacist whether you need to stop taking any of your medications before the procedure.
Arrange for someone to drive you home from the clinic or hospital as you will be unable to drive yourself.
What can I expect after the procedure?
Following cataract surgery, you will likely feel some discomfort and itching. Do not rub or press your eye. You may be sensitive to light so wear eye protection such as glasses, or an eye patch or shield. You may also have some fluid discharge from your eye. This will ease within a couple of days.
Wear eye protection when sleeping to avoid rubbing or touching the eye accidentally. Your doctor may also recommend avoiding strenuous activity following surgery.
Your vision should start improving a day after the procedure.
Your doctor will prescribe eye drops to prevent infection, promote healing, and help with pain. The drops will also control the amount of pressure in your eye. You will need to go to a follow-up visit the next day, as well as one week and one month after the surgery. At the final appointment, or once your eye has healed sufficiently, you will receive a prescription for new eyeglasses.
Results
Your vision will likely be clearer and more vivid. You may no longer need corrective eyewear. This improved vision allows many people to resume their regular activities.