It involves breaking down of the eye’s lens into small pieces that are removed through a small cut in the eye. Replacement of the lens with an artificial one. This article gives information about cataract surgery preparation and some suggestions.
Cataract surgery
- Cataract is clouding of the eye lens which develops after a long time.
- To maintain or restore the vision, remove the cataract surgically.
- Phacoemulsification is one of the important technique used to remove cataracts. Sometimes, depending on the necessity, alternative techniques may be used.
Preparing for the operation
- A surgeon will guide you to prepare for the operation.
- Phacoemulsification is done under local anaesthesia. It can be given as an injection in the tissue or drops in the eye. This blocks the feeling from the eye area. You will be awake during the operation. Sometimes a sedative is given along with anaesthesia that helps you relax.
- Very rarely, general anaesthesia is given during operation, which means you will not be awake during the operation.
- A surgeon will add drops in your eyes to widen the pupil. This makes it easier to see the lens inside the eye.
- As your eyes are under treatment you can’t see anything but can feel the movement and light.
- At the hospital the nurse will take care and explain how you should take care of your eyes during your stay. A nurse may check the blood pressure, heart rate and test your urine.
- A surgeon will ask you to sign a consent form. It confirms that you know the benefits, risks and other alternatives of the surgery procedure and that you have given the permission to go ahead.
Suggestions
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After cataract surgery, while recovering from it –
- Do not touch or rub your eye.
- Keep shampoo and soap away from your eyes.
- Do not lift heavy things or do strenuous exercise.
- If you suffer from severe pain, or have increased redness of the eye or vision loss contact your doctor for the advice.
