It is a common surgical procedure performed to eliminate cloudiness in the eye. Cataracts, which occur due to aging, are characterized by clouding of the lens of the eye. This can negatively affect vision and, over time, make daily life activities difficult. Cataract surgeryIt is based on the principle of replacing the cloudy natural lens with an artificial lens.
When Should Cataract Surgery Be Performed?
It is performed when vision is significantly reduced due to cataracts. Cataracts occur when the lens of the eye becomes cloudy and progresses over time. However, not every cataract requires surgery immediately. The decision to undergo surgery depends on how it affects the patient's daily life and the general condition of their eye health.
When it starts to make daily activities difficult, surgery should be considered. Some patients seek surgery when they experience symptoms such as flashes of light, blurred vision, or difficulty seeing at night. However, these symptoms do not progress at the same rate for everyone. Therefore, the extent to which cataracts affect daily life is an important factor.
A doctor may recommend surgery if cataracts could negatively affect other structures in the eye or health. Additionally, some diseases can worsen eye health along with cataracts. For example, cataracts can progress more quickly in individuals with diseases such as diabetes. and early intervention may be necessary.
Ultimately, the timing of surgery should take into account the patient’s quality of life and overall eye health. The ophthalmologist will assess how advanced the cataract is. He or she will also make a personalized recommendation regarding the appropriate timing of surgery. Early detection and regular eye exams are critical to the correct timing of surgery.
Stages of Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery, is performed by removing the cloudy lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial lens. This procedure is performed very safely and effectively with the techniques provided by modern medicine. The surgery consists of several basic stages.
The first stage is a detailed eye examination before surgery. During this examination, the structure of the eye is examined and the type and power of the artificial lens to be placed is determined. On the day of surgery, the patient is given local anesthesia. This keeps the patient awake, but the eye area is completely numb.
The second stage is the surgical intervention process. The surgeon reaches the cataractous lens by making a small incision in the transparent layer of the eye. The technique called phacoemulsification is used to break up the cloudy lens with ultrasound waves and remove it in small pieces. This process is carried out with extreme precision.
The third stage is the placement of an artificial intraocular lens. This lens replaces the natural lens and restores the patient's vision. The surgeon places the lens in a special socket in the eye and allows the incision to close on its own. In most cases, no stitches are required.
In the final stage, the patient is kept under observation for a short time and then sent home. The instructions given by the doctor after the surgery should be followed carefully. The recovery process is usually rapid and patients begin to see better in a short time.
After Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery The recovery process after surgery is usually quick and uneventful. However, there are some important points to consider during this period. Immediately after the surgery, patients are kept under observation for a short period of time and are usually discharged the same day. In the first few days, there may be slight discomfort, blurring or sensitivity in the eyes, but these symptoms will decrease over time.
Regular use of eye drops prescribed by your doctor is essential to reduce the risk of infection and speed up healing. Additionally, protective eyewear or a bandage may be used to protect the eye from trauma. Heavy lifting, bending, or strenuous exercise should be avoided for the first few weeks, as these activities can increase intraocular pressure and negatively affect healing.
Attention to eye hygiene also plays a critical role in the post-operative period. The eye should be kept clean and any foreign material should be avoided. It is also recommended to avoid swimming and eye makeup for a certain period of time after surgery.
Cataract surgery Post-operative check-ups are essential to monitor the healing process. The doctor will assess the condition of the eye and check for complications. Full recovery is usually achieved within a few weeks, and patients' vision quality improves significantly. Continuing regular eye check-ups after surgery is important for long-term eye health.
