Whether you have cataracts or not, chances are you’ve heard of cataract surgery. It’s possible your eye doctor has even recommended it. Cataracts are not harmful to your health, but they can make it very difficult to see and live your life.
The only way to treat cataracts is to have them removed through cataract surgery. But despite what you may have heard, cataract surgery is a simple and effective procedure. Below are useful cataract facts and common myths about cataract surgery.
False. Anyone of any age can get a cataract. Some people are even born with cataracts. It is true that cataracts usually occur with age, but you don’t need to be what most consider “elderly.”
Even being above forty puts you at high risk for cataracts. For some people, they develop over the course of several years. But for others, they may make it very hard to see after only a couple months.
Wrong again. Cataract surgery involves removing the cataract and the natural lens of the eye. The lens is then replaced with an artificial one. Cataracts naturally form in the lens. Since the artificial implant isn’t made of organic material, a cataract cannot form in it.
There is a chance you could get what’s called a “secondary cataract,” which affects the edges of the implant. This is treatable and is removed during a quick procedure at your doctor’s office.
False. While cataract surgery has traditionally been performed in hospitals or ambulatory surgery centers, many practices now offer office-based cataract surgery in an in-office surgical suite.
This approach provides the same high level of safety and outcomes, but with a more convenient and streamlined experience. Patients can have their procedure in the same location where they see their eye doctor, often with less paperwork and fewer pre-surgical requirements.
Office-based cataract surgery does not require IV sedation or fasting. Instead, patients are given an oral sedative to help them relax, making the process simpler and more comfortable. Everything takes place in your doctor’s office with a familiar care team, and patients typically spend significantly less time on the day of their procedure.
Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed medical procedure in the country. It’s very safe and low-risk. Most surgeons who perform the surgery have a great deal of experience.
Many have performed cataract surgery thousands of times! The best thing you can do is take good care of your eyes while they are healing after surgery.
You’ll have to limit yourself to light activity, and give yourself some TLC for approximately 24-48 hours after surgery.
The incisions made in your eye during surgery are very small, so they close up quickly without sutures. Limiting your activities after surgery is a precaution against potential injury.
Your eyes will be more sensitive while they are recovering from cataract surgery. With a bit of rest and proper care, your eye will heal in no time!
Think it might be time for you to get cataract surgery? Contact Washington Eye Physicians & Surgeons in Washington DC today and request an appointment!
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The material contained on this site is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health care provider.
