Cataract
What happens during cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery removes the cloudy natural lens and replaces it with a clear artificial lens. It is usually done under local anaesthetic as a day case and takes about twenty to thirty minutes. You are awake but the eye is numb. Most people go home the same day and use drops for several weeks while the eye settles.
Before the day
At the pre-operative assessment your vision, eye pressure, cornea and retina are examined, and the eye is measured to calculate the power of the implant. Your general health and medications are reviewed, and blood sugar and blood pressure control are checked where relevant. The surgeon explains the technique planned for your eye and you give consent.
The two main techniques
- Phacoemulsification, where the cataract is broken up with ultrasound and removed through a very small opening, then a folded lens implant is inserted
- Small incision cataract surgery, where the cataract is removed in one piece through a slightly larger self sealing tunnel, which is well suited to dense cataracts
On the day
Drops widen the pupil and numb the eye, and anaesthetic is sometimes given by injection around the eye. The area is cleaned and a drape is used. You will see a bright light and may sense movement and water, but you should not feel pain. Tell the team at any point if you are uncomfortable.
Afterwards the eye may be shielded. You rest, receive your drops and instructions, and go home with someone to accompany you.
Risks
Cataract surgery is one of the most frequently performed operations and most people do well, but no operation is risk free and no outcome can be guaranteed. Possible problems include infection inside the eye, bleeding, swelling of the macula, raised pressure, a tear in the lens capsule, retinal detachment and the need for further surgery. Your surgeon will discuss the risks that apply to your eye.
When to seek urgent assessment
- Increasing pain, worsening redness, discharge or falling vision after surgery, which needs same day assessment
- New flashes, floaters or a shadow in the vision after surgery
Frequently asked questions
- Will I be asleep?
- Usually not. The operation is normally done with the eye numbed while you stay awake, which is safer and allows you to go home the same day. General anaesthetic is reserved for particular circumstances.
- Does it hurt?
- The eye is numb, so people generally feel pressure and see bright light rather than pain. Mild grittiness for a few days afterwards is normal.
Concerned about these symptoms?
Arrange an eye examination with our consultant ophthalmologist in Garki, Abuja.
Care at Standard Eye
Related answers
- What is recovery like after cataract surgery?
- What lens is used in cataract surgery?
- Where can I have cataract surgery in Abuja?
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