Cataract Surgery
How is Cataract Surgery Performed?
When the patient and surgeon decide it’s time for cataract surgery, the cataract is surgically removed and replaced with a clear intraocular lens implant. Since only a tiny incision is used, neither stitches nor a patch are usually required after surgery (sometimes referred to as “no-stitch, no-patch cataract surgery”). At Coastal Eye Institute, we use an advanced surgical technique called phacoemulsification. The cataract is broken apart using ultrasound. The lens implant is inserted through a small incision and unfolds once inside the eye. This technique usually takes less than 15 minutes to complete and allows the eye to heal more quickly with minimal discomfort. Patients who have surgery in the morning are usually home in time for lunch and may watch TV the same day. Please watch the video below to learn more about cataract surgery.
Cataract Surgery
(Microincision Phacoemulsification)
Can I use cataract surgery as an opportunity to reduce my need for glasses?
Yes. In many instances advanced lenses can be utilized to allow patients to reduce or eliminate their need for glasses. Not everyone is a candidate for the advanced lenses, but your surgeon will assess your vision and the health of your eye and discuss your options with you. If you would like to learn about these lenses click here.
What happens after surgery?
Thanks to the micro-incision technique, you will go home the same day as your cataract surgery, be able to watch TV that night, and resume light activities. Eye drops are prescribed to help prevent infection and swelling after surgery. Your surgeon will continue to monitor your progress during your post-operative appointments. If you need glasses, you will be fitted about 2-4 weeks after the procedure.
Do cataracts grow back?
Cataract surgery is a once-in-a-lifetime procedure. Cataracts do not grow back. However, in some patients, the membrane that is behind the cataract that holds the lens implant becomes cloudy after surgery. This is called “posterior capsule opacification” and can cause glare, sensitivity to lights and decreased vision. If this occurs, your cataract surgeon can usually restore your vision with a painless laser treatment. Please watch the video below to learn more.
(YAG Laser Posterior Capsulotomy)