How cataract surgery is done?
Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens. Not all cataract surgeries are operated by placing an intraocular lens on the eye; the procedure varies depending on the patient's condition and the ophthalmologist's preference. The eye doctor will also decide whether to put you under local or general anesthesia. Removing your natural eye lens can be performed traditionally by ultrasound energy or using laser-assisted technology. Either way, cataract surgery is a frequently performed, mostly outpatient, and safe procedure.
Generally, cataract surgery is performed in under 20 minutes. As soon as the surgery is over, you may be transferred to a recovery room until the effects of anesthesia subsides; this could extend the overall procedure time to an hour.
How long does cataract surgery result last?
The newly placed lens is durable and will last for life. But in some rare cases, the patient might experience a degree of blurred vision months after cataract surgery. This is because the tissue holding the intraocular lens might get cloudy over time. This "after-cataract" condition can be treated in a pain-free procedure using a YAG laser.
Alternative methods
Despite what many unscientific websites might claim, there are no natural remedies that could remove cataracts and be an alternative to cataracts surgery. Herbal supplements, eye drops, or essential oils are not definite treatments for cataracts. Ultimately, cataracts surgery is the only option to treat cataracts.
That being said, some lifestyle modifications can slow down its course.
- Wear quality sunglasses
- Quit smoking and drinking alcohol
- Treat chronic diseases like diabetes
- Eat a healthy diet and take vitamin supplements
- Get regular eye exams
Cataract surgery VS. Lasik
Cataract surgery is the procedure of removing the natural eye lens and replacing it with an artificial lens. LASIK surgery uses laser to reshape the cornea. Both surgeries can correct nearsightedness as well as farsightedness. Cataracts surgery cannot treat astigmatism and an additional LASIK surgery can be performed after cataract surgery.
Should I get Cataract surgery?
Traditionally, cataract surgery would only be performed on people whose condition was in its final stages. Nowadays, it can be performed even before cataract has noticeable effects on the vision. Most candidates of cataract surgery are in their 60s. However, cataract surgery can be performed on people of any age. If the cataracts are holding you back from doing your normal activities, maybe you should consider getting contract surgery. A developing cataract condition can lead to vision loss if left untreated.
You might develop cataracts due to several reasons; Cataract can occur as a result of health conditions like diabetes or as a side effect of other eye-related surgeries such as glaucoma. This is known as a secondary cataract. Cataract can also develop due to injury or radiation exposure. Also, a congenital cataract is a condition that babies are born with and should be treated upon diagnostics.
If you are having difficulties driving safe, have problems doing your job or normal daily activities, you might be a candidate for cataract surgery. If you are in doubts, our experts can help you figure out if you need cataract surgery.
What You need to do before getting Cataract Eye Surgery
Cataract surgery is a quick, and outpatient procedure. Nevertheless, you should take the necessary measures to prepare for the surgery.
- About a week prior to the surgery, your doctor will perform an ultrasound test to determine the size and shape of your eye. This information helps the medical team prepare the intraocular lens that is going to be implanted.
- Avoid smoking for at least two weeks before the procedure. Smoking can worsen your condition and also delay your recovery after the surgery.
- Have somebody help you get back to the hotel. Immediately after the surgery, you might not be able to see clearly.
- Use the eye drops and take the medications your surgeon might prescribe for a couple of days before the surgery. These eye drops help reduce infection.
- Avoid eating and drinking after midnight before the surgery.
- On the day of the surgery, wear comfortable clothing and do not wear any makeup.
What does cataract surgery cost in Iran?
The average cost of cataract surgery in Iran would be $1000 per eye. The same surgery costs about $2500 in Thailand and $4000 in the US. The affordable cost of cataract surgery and the high-quality service offered by Iranian surgeons is the main reason why thousands of patients come to Iran for different treatments including cataracts surgery.
Cataract surgery recovery guidelines and aftercare
A cataracts surgery mostly requires no hospitalization and you can get back to the hotel afterward. After cataracts surgery, your vision could be blurry and cloudy. We recommend you have somebody help you for a day after the procedure. You should follow the instructions suggested by the surgeon. Some basic tips for after cataracts surgery are as follows:
- Don't do any strenuous activity such as bending or lifting heavy stuff.
- Wear sunglasses to avoid exposure to the sun and any irritation such as dust and wind.
- Wait for several hours before removing the protective eye shields placed on your eyes. You may have to tape the shield back on your eyes during sleeping for several days.
- Try not to sneeze or vomit right after the surgery.
- For a week after the surgery, avoid swimming or using a hot tube to avoid infection.
- Do not rub your eyes
You can watch TV or work on a computer in a few hours after the surgery. In 3-4 weeks you can do exercises or other serious activities.
Risks and side effects
Cataracts surgery is a quick and effective surgery with over 95% success rate. There are a few risks associated with cataracts surgery. You should watch out for symptoms indicating infection or inflammation. Other possible side effects include bleeding, drooping eyelid, retinal detachment, and glaucoma.
FAQ
Is cataract surgery safe?
Contracts surgery is one of the safest and most effective surgeries performed frequently around the world. Complications following cataracts surgery are extremely rare.
Is cataract surgery painful?
For a few days after the surgery, Mild pain is considered normal. If you experience unbearable pain during this time, contact your physician.
Can cataract surgery cause glaucoma, astigmatism or blindness?
In rare cases, cataract surgery can change the eye's pressure and lead to glaucoma. It is not uncommon for patients to experience astigmatism after cataracts surgery. Blindness is exceedingly rare during or after the procedure.
