Cataract surgery has existed in this world for over a century, but it is the recent innovations in technology that have transformed this into a very safe and effective surgery. As a patient, it’s great to know that the success rate for cataract treatment is high when you are about to undergo this type of surgery. Intraocular lenses inserted during Phacoemulsifaction have allowed cataract patients to recover more youthful eyesight. Instead of dealing with glasses after surgery some patients may have the choice to upgrade to a new premium type of lens that will enable vision at multiple distances. In addition to the new lens implants available, less invasive surgery techniques have come to fruition to enable much faster healing. Despite the effectiveness of the cataract surgery the preparation process may take weeks and various decisions will need to be made.
Cataract Surgery Choices
Are you seeking a Washington DC cataract surgeon?
Once you have decided to have cataract surgery you will have a number of important decisions to make. The first item on the agenda is to select a skilled cataract surgeon. At Washington Eye Physicians & Surgeons, you will find surgeons with sub-specialty expertise to provide you with superior skills using the most up to date modern surgery techniques and equipment in the Washington DC metro area. All this ensure a safe and comfortable procedure. Once you have selected a cataract surgeon it is time to understand what lens implant option will be the best. It’s important to discuss your options with a qualified ophthalmologist. Your options will include monofocal lenses, multifocal IOL’s or accommodating lens implants. We thank you for considering Washington Eye Physicians & Surgeons as an option for cataract treatment in Washington DC.
The Cataract Surgery Process
What happens during cataract surgery?
After the proper anesthesia and numbing of the eye your cataract surgeon will be ready to make a small incision in your eye about 3mm wide. Modern day cataract surgery is also called micro-surgery because the incision sizes have become so small. Once the incision is made, the cataract surgeon will insert a probe to break up the cloudy cataract and then remove the material. A suction tube will remove all of the loose debris and the capsular bag is prepared for the artificial IOL implant. The fold-able IOL is then inserted through a tube and then unfolds once in place. Intraocular lenses will have haptics or “lens arms” to hold it in place. With the cataract removed and the IOL in place, light can once again travel unimpeded to the back of the eye and focus on the retina where the image is interpreted and transmitted to the brain. The end result is clear youthful vision.
Determining Your Cataract Lens Implant
An important part of your pre-operative process will involve choosing a lens implant. Implants are divided into 2 main categories
- Monofocal
- Multifocal
How do monofocal and multifocal lenses work?
Monofocal lens implants work when light enters the actual lens and it is bent to a specific focal point. Because the lens is monofocal, the light can only be bent to one focus point at a time. The light from these lenses is bent to focus specifically on the retina of the eye.
New lens implants are now available that can correct vision at near, intermediate and far distances. These types of lenses are commonly called “lifestyle lens implants” or premium lens implants and fall into the categories listed below. If you have astigmatism a monofocal Toric lens and or LensX femtosecond laser maybe suggested. Multifocal, toric, and accommodating lens implants are all considered premium lens implants.
After Cataract Surgery
Most patients are concerned about the cataract surgery recovery process. Our doctors at Washington Eye Physicians & Surgeons provide the best quality care and thoroughly explain what you can expect after cataract treatment. Recovery from cataract surgery is generally very quick. Most patients obtain better vision within the first 24 hours of the procedure. Itching and mild discomfort are normal after cataract surgery. Some fluid discharge is also common. Your eye may be sensitive to light and touch. If you have discomfort, your doctor can suggest treatment.
After one or two days, any moderate discomfort should disappear. Complete visual recovery varies from patient to patient but most patients return to their every day activities within a day or two. If you have cataracts in both eyes, the second procedure will most likely be scheduled within a week or two. Your doctor will schedule exams to check on your progress. Each person heals differently so it is important to discuss the cataract surgery recovery with your eye doctor.
