Treatment and Care of Cataracts

During the early stage of cataract, the symptoms may be improved upon by wearing eyeglasses, anti‐glare sunglasses, the use of a magnifying lens, and brighter lighting when performing tasks like reading. Should the use of the assistive tools be ineffective to the level of vision necessary, cataract surgery is the only treatment option.

When is Surgery the Right Option for Cataract Treatment

Surgical treatment for cataracts is mostly performed when the vision of the eye is compromised to the extent of interfering with daily tasks, such as reading, driving, watching television, and enjoying hobbies. While making this decision, you and your eye care specialist can decided together if and when cataract surgery is the right treatment option for your eyes. There are exceptions for when cataracts surgery is preformed. It is possible for your eye care specialist to request cataract surgery even if there are no vision compromising symptoms. This is exception occurs when the cataract is preventing the examination or treatment of other eye conditions.

During the decision process for treatment, ask questions of your eye care specialist. Be sure you understand the positives and negatives to cataract surgery.

Types of Cataract Surgery

There are two different types of cataract surgery, Phacoemulsification (or phaco) and Extracapsular surgery. Your eye care specialist will help advise which surgery is the best surgery option for you.

Phacoemulsification: Otherwise known as “Phaco” or “Small incision cataract surgery”, a small incision on the side of the cornea is made. After the incision is made, a tiny probe inserted in the eye, sends forth ultrasound waves causing the lens of the eye to soften and break up. This softening and breaking up allows the lens to be removed with suction. This particular type of cataract surgery is the most common cataract surgery preformed to date in the US.

Extracapsular: Like the above surgery, an incision will be made at the side of the cornea, however this incision will be longer allowing the cloudy lens to be removed. The main core of the lens is removed in one piece while the remaining lens is removed by suction. Following the successful complete removal of the lens, it is common to replace the damaged lens with a new artificial lens. This new lens is light, focused, and colorless. You will not be able to feel or see the new replacement lens. In some cases where other eye diseases are present, and replacement lenses are not possible, individuals may be able to wear eyeglasses or soft lens contact lenses.

Questions to Ask Your Eye Care Specialist About Surgical Treatment for Cataracts

Each Individual will have unique circumstances to be considered prior to deciding if surgical treatment for cataracts is the right option. Below are a few questions to ask your eye care specialist. General answers have been provided, however each persons experience and eye condition differs: these answers are designed to give you an idea, your eye care specialist will be able to answer your questions with the tailored information relating specifically to your eye condition.

Is surgery an effective treatment for cataracts?
Yes. Among the most commonly performed and safest surgeries in the US, cataract surgery is 90% successful at improving vision post‐operation.
What are the risks associated with cataract surgery?
Like every surgical procedure there are potential risks, such as infections and bleeding. If you are on medications that increase your risk of bleeding, your doctor may ask you temporarily stop the use of such medication prior to surgery. Other risks include the increased potential risk of retinal detachment. In addition you may experience double vision and loss of or cloudy vision. If double or loss vision occurs contact your eye care specialist immediately. With prompt attention these symptoms can usually be addressed. RETNIAL DETACHMENT IS A MEDICAL EMERGENCY. Be sure to talk to your eye care professional about the risks involved with cataract surgery. Many risks are increased by multiple conditions such as nearsightedness.
What should I expect before cataract surgery?
During the 2 weeks leading up to surgery, tests will be preformed to determine the correct size of replacement lens (IOL). Your doctor may require additional tests to determine your overall health and the current condition of your eyes. It is also common for your doctor to require that you do not eat or drink anything 12 hours before surgery. In the event both eyes will be treated, your doctor will perform the surgeries separately.
What should I expect during cataract surgery?
Your procedure may be preformed at an eye care clinic or at a hospital. Eye drops are put into your eyes, dilating the pupil and the surrounding eye area is washed. This operation may be done with local anesthetic, while you remain awake during the procedure. It is possible for general anesthetic to be administered, causing you to sleep during the cataract surgery. The average time of the surgery lasts for about one hour.
What should I expect after surgery?
After cataract surgery, the nerves around your eye may feel numb and a patch may be placed over your eye for protection. You will be observed by the medical post‐operation staff, and generally released same day to go home and recover. After surgery you will not be able to drive yourself home. Be sure to have transportation arranged.

Experiencing mild discomfort and itching is common after cataract surgery. You may experience increased light sensitivity, fluid leakage from recovering eye, and touch sensitivity. The majority of discomfort should subside within 24 to 48 hours.

Eye drop medication may be prescribed to limit the risk of infection; use of drops and regularity of administering may vary. Generally post‐operation patients will wear protective eyeglasses or an eye shield.

What not to do at home: Do not rub or itch your eyes. Avoid lifting heavy objects and performing strenuous tasks. Your doctor may give you a more specific list of “what not to‐do’s”, follow your doctors directions.
How long until I am completely healed from cataract surgery?
The average healing time is approximately 8 weeks. The majority of discomfort should subside within the first few days, however vision may be blurry for several weeks post operation. As your eye heals, the newly accomplished clarity will take time for your eye to acclimate to. You may experience brighter colors as your vision sharpens. Remember to follow your doctors post operation procedures.

After Surgery Vision Assistance Options

With the increased vision clarity from having fully recovered from cataract surgery, individuals who have experienced vision loss may not have the full restoration of vision. If you experience low vision after cataract there are options available for assistive devices. Companies such as Enhanced Vision specialize in low vision assist technologies. Hand‐held portable magnifiers, and desktop home devices have been developed to assist individuals with low vision. There may be eye training classes and other special services available in your community. Ask your eye care specialist for information regarding low vision assistance.