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It is an operation in which an artificial lens is placed instead of tissue that has lost its transparency in the eye lens. It is the case of blurring of the natural lens (lens), which is in it and performs the focusing process. Normally, this lens has a transparent structure and allows light to fall into the eye. However, factors such as aging, injury, certain diseases, and medications can cause lens clouding and reduced vision. Blurred lenses prevent light from reaching the retina of the eye clearly, which reduces the quality of vision. Cataract surgery is generally performed under local anesthesia and the patient does not need to be hospitalized. In this operation, the doctor cuts off a small part of the eye and uses ultrasound waves to remove the cloudy lens in pieces. An artificial lens is then placed in place of the removed lens. Artificial lenses are made of plastic or silicone and are permanently placed inside the eye.
Factors Contributing to Cataract Disease
Age: As we age, the lenses inside the eyes naturally harden and become cloudy. This can lead to visual disturbances and eventual disease development.
Diabetes: Individuals with diabetes are at higher risk. High blood sugar levels can cause the lenses in the eye to cloud.
Smoking: Smoking can contribute to its occurrence. Toxic substances in cigarettes can cause clouding of the lenses.
Excessive alcohol consumption: Alcohol can reduce the levels of antioxidants that affect the health of the lenses, which can accelerate their development. In this case, cataract surgery may be required.
Sunlight exposure: Prolonged or intense sunlight exposure, especially exposure to UVB rays, can accelerate its development.
Eye injuries or surgeries: Injuries or those who have had previous operations may increase the likelihood of their occurrence.
Some drugs: Especially long-term use of drugs can increase the likelihood of its occurrence.
Genetic factors: People with a family history of this condition have a higher risk of developing it.
Obesity: It can lead to the formation of a high body mass index (BMI).
These and other risk factors can cause changes in the structure and function of their lenses, leading to their development. However, some lifestyle changes and protective strategies (wearing sunglasses, eating a healthy diet, quitting smoking, etc.) can reduce this risk. Although often unavoidable, cataract surgery can slow or delay its formation.
After Cataract Surgery
Patients can return home the same day. The procedure is quick and painless. However, there may be a feeling of discomfort after the procedure and this may last for several days. This is the process of self-healing and accepting the new lens. Some patients have blurred vision immediately after the operation, but this is temporary. Afterwards, vision improves within a few hours, but full recovery may take several weeks.
After treatment, the doctor prescribes some painkillers and drops to the patient. These drops reduce the risk of infection and control inflammation. These drops are used for several weeks. After the procedure, patients are warned to avoid heavy lifting, bending and intense exercise. It is also recommended to use an eye patch or safety glasses for protection immediately afterwards.
Post-surgical complications are rare but possible. These complications may include infection, bleeding, inflammation, increased intraocular pressure, retinal tear or retinal detachment, and astigmatism. Therefore, it is important to contact a healthcare professional immediately if you experience symptoms such as pain, blurred vision, sensitivity to light, redness or discharge afterward.
A few weeks after the procedure, the doctor schedules a follow-up appointment to check on the patient. During this visit, the doctor checks on the patient and checks that the new lens is properly fitted. At this stage, the doctor prescribes a new eyeglasses prescription to the patient, because after cataract surgery, there may be a change in eyeglasses number.
