Cataract Surgery
Receiving a cataract diagnosis, let alone hearing that surgery may be necessary, might be frightening to some. In this article, we will discuss what a cataract is and whether or not you may require cataract surgery.
What is Cataract?
Light normally enters the eye from the front, passes through a clear lens, and reaches the retina, allowing one to see. Cataract refers to cloudiness of this natural focusing lens within the eye.
People who have cataracts usually develop them in both eyes. However, one eye may develop cataract earlier than the other. The rate of progression of the cataract might also differ between individuals. While most cataracts progress over years, some might experience a rapid deterioration, requiring earlier surgery. Watch the video below for a simple demonstration of what is cataract!
@drliviateo June is cataract awareness month! Have you had your eyes checked for cataracts yet? #cataract #cataractsurgery #ophthalmologist #DidYouKnow #eye #eyehealth #eyecare ♬ Here Comes the Sun - Relaxing Instrumental Music
When is the Usual Onset of Cataract?
What are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
- One feeling a persistent blurring or cloudiness of vision that does not improve despite a change in spectacle prescription
- There might be difficulty focusing, poor vision at night, seeing haloes around light and colours appear faded
- Depending on the type of cataract, one might even experience glare or the feeling that lamps and headlights are too bright
- It can also cause a rapid change in refractive error (spectacles degree) with a constant need to update the glasses. Typically, the patient becomes progressively more myopic (more short-sighted).
What is Cataract Surgery and How is it Performed?
Cataract surgery is a minimally invasive surgery. The commonest method of surgery only requires small incisions of less than 3mm on the eyeball and makes use of ultrasound energy to break down the cataract. The particles are then suctioned out of the eye. An artificial lens (intraocular lens or IOL) is then implanted into the eye to replace the cloudy lens which has been removed.
How will I Know when I need Cataract Surgery?
Will I still need Glasses after Cataract Surgery?
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Monofocal Intraocular Lens
Monofocal Intraocular Lens
This is a single focus lens that allows sharp vision at either far or near distance. The user might need reading or distance glasses after surgery.
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Toric Intraocular Lens
Toric Intraocular Lens
This is a single focus lens that also corrects astigmatism.
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Multifocal or Extended Depth Focus Intraocular Lens
Multifocal or Extended Depth Focus Intraocular Lens
This lens aims to help an individual to be spectacle free.
Book a consultation with your doctor to find out if you are a suitable candidate for spectacle free correction during cataract surgery.
How long does it take to Recover from Cataract Surgery?
How do I Prevent Cataracts?
Some strategies that may be helpful in preventing or slowing down the progession of cataracts include:
- Sun protection when outdoors such as wearing sunglasses or a hat with a rim
- Have a healthy and balanced diet
- Avoid steroid medications if possible
- Go for regular eye checks above the age of 40 to assess your eye health.
Dr Livia Teo,
Senior Consultant Ophthalmologist
Nobel Eye & Vision Centre (Gleneagles Hospital)
