Eye Cataract Surgery at ONUS Hospitals
Cataract surgery is a common and effective procedure for treating cataracts, which are clouding of the eye’s natural lens that can cause vision problems. The procedure aims to regain clear vision by removing the cloudy lens and substituting it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). It is commonly conducted as an outpatient service and is widely practised globally.
Cataract surgery removes a cloudy lens and replaces it with a clear, artificial one to improve vision. It’s typically performed by an ophthalmologist, often as an outpatient procedure. Most people need only one surgery, and if both eyes are affected, the second surgery is done after a week or two. The procedure is safe, quick, and practical, restoring vision for most people. Special intraocular lenses (IOLs) can also correct issues like astigmatism and presbyopia, reducing reliance on glasses or contacts.
What are the types of cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery comes in two main types:
- Phacoemulsification: A minimally invasive method where ultrasound breaks the cloudy lens, and an artificial lens is implanted.
- Extracapsular Surgery: The cloudy lens is removed in one piece through a larger incision, often used for advanced cataracts.
Phacoemulsification is more common for faster recovery.
Signs of Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is suggested when the clouding of the eye’s natural lens (cataract) causes significant visual impairment and interferes with daily activities. Common indications for cataract surgery include
- Vision Impairment: Blurred or cloudy vision not improved by glasses or contacts.
- Daily Activity Challenges: The hindered ability to read, drive, recognise faces, or engage in hobbies.
- Glare and Light Sensitivity: Increased sensitivity to light and glare, making night driving or bright environments difficult.
- Frequent Prescription Changes: Frequent updates are needed for eyeglass prescriptions due to worsening vision.
- Decreased Contrast Sensitivity: Difficulty distinguishing between shades and contrasts.
- Loss of Independence: Impaired ability to live independently and safely.
Steps involved in Cataract surgery
ONUS
Hospital is the best Eye Hospital in Hyderabad for Cataract Operations. Cataract surgery is a common, safe procedure performed by ophthalmologists to remove a cloudy lens from the eye and replace it with an artificial lens to improve vision.
- Preoperative Evaluation: Comprehensive eye exam to assess cataract severity and eye pain and health; measurements taken for IOL power.
- Anaesthesia: Local anaesthesia (eye drops or injection) to numb the eye for comfort during surgery.
- Incision Creation: Small incision made in the cornea, typically less than 3 mm.
- Capsulorhexis: Circular opening created in the lens capsule to access the cataract.
- Phacoemulsification: Ultrasonic probe breaks up and suctions out the cataract.
- IOL Placement: Insertion of the artificial intraocular lens (IOL) into the lens capsule.
- Stabilisation and Adjustment: IOL positioned for optimal vision correction.
- Wound Closure: Small, self-sealing incision usually requires no stitches.
- Recovery and Postoperative Care: Short observation period, eye shield protection, and prescribed eye drops.
- Follow-Up Visits: Regular appointments to monitor healing and vision improvement.
Who will be treated for Cataract surgery?
Ophthalmologists
Cataract surgery is a specialised procedure performed by ophthalmologists who diagnose, treat, and manage various eye conditions, including cataracts. Ophthalmologists are trained to provide comprehensive eye care and perform surgeries like cataract surgery.
Preparing for Cataract surgery
Preparing for cataract surgery involves a series of steps to ensure that you’re ready for the procedure and that your eye health is optimised for the best outcome. Here’s a guide on how to prepare
- Consultation: Book an appointment to discuss your cataract, medical history, and concerns.
- Eye Exam: Undergo a comprehensive eye evaluation to assess cataract severity and eye health.
- Lens Options: Discuss intraocular lens (IOL) options for vision improvement.
- Medication Review: Provide a list of all medications; some may need adjustment before surgery.
- Fasting Instructions: Follow instructions on fasting and medications before surgery.
- Transportation: Arrange for someone to drive you home post-surgery.
- Avoid Eye Makeup: Do not wear eye makeup or creams on the day of surgery.
- Hygiene: Clean your face and eyes with mild soap; avoid lotions around the eyes.
- Clothing: Wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing.
- Eye Drops: Use prescribed eye drops before and after surgery to prevent infection and inflammation.
- Recovery Plan: Discuss postoperative care and restrictions with your ophthalmologist.
- Questions: Ask any questions or express concerns during your consultation.
Recovery after Cataract Surgery
Recovery after cataract surgery is usually straightforward, and most patients experience improved vision and minimal discomfort within a few days. Here’s what you can expect during the recovery period
- Immediate Postoperative Period: Monitored briefly in recovery; the eye may be shielded.
- Vision Changes: Blurry vision initially, improving over a few days.
- Rest and Relaxation: Rest on surgery day; avoid strain, heavy lifting, and vigorous exercise.
- Medication and Eye Drops: Use prescribed eye drops as directed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation.
- Avoid Eye Rubbing: Do not touch or rub your eye.
- Follow-Up Appointments: Attend follow-up visits to monitor healing and IOL placement.
- Resuming Activities: Light activities can usually resume within a few days; avoid exposure to dust, dirt, or sunlight.
- Gradual Vision Improvement: Vision improves over days to weeks; individual timelines vary.
- Driving Restrictions: Do not drive on surgery day; wait for the surgeon’s clearance.
- Follow Instructions: Adhere to all postoperative care guidelines.
- Report Concerns: Contact your surgeon if you experience unusual symptoms like increased pain, redness, vision loss, or discharge.
Who needs cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery may be needed if cataracts cause vision problems that affect daily activities. Your eye care specialist might also recommend surgery if other conditions, like age-related macular degeneration or diabetes-related retinopathy, need to be monitored. However, cataract surgery only improves vision loss due to cataracts, not from these other conditions.
What is the Cost of Cataract Surgery?
The cost of cataract surgery in India depends on the hospital, the type of surgery, and the lens used. The average cost ranges between ₹15,000 and ₹50,000 per eye.
- Basic Cataract Surgery: ₹15,000 to ₹25,000
- Premium Cataract Surgery (with advanced lenses): ₹30,000 to ₹50,000
What are the Benefits of Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is the only proven method to remove cataracts and enhance vision. No medicines or eye drops can restore vision affected by cataracts.
After surgery, you can expect to:
- Experience sharper, clearer vision
- Be less sensitive to glare from bright lights (like when driving at night)
- See colors more vividly
- Use glasses less often, In some cases
Lifestyle changes after Cataract surgery
After cataract surgery, expect improved vision and quality of life. You don’t need major lifestyle changes, but adopt habits to maintain eye health and maximise improved vision.
- Wear Sunglasses: Use UV-protection sunglasses outdoors.
- Healthy Diet: Eat fruits, vegetables, and nutrients like vitamins A, C, E, and omega-3s.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water.
- Avoid Eye Strain: Use proper lighting and take breaks from screens.
- Regular Check-Ups: Visit your ophthalmologist regularly.
- Use Eyewear: Wear prescribed glasses or contact lenses as recommended.
- Medication Management: Use prescribed eye drops or medications as directed.
- Exercise Safely: Engage in physical activity but avoid eye injury risks.
- Stay Socially Active: Participate in activities and hobbies.
- Avoid Eye Rubbing: Be gentle with your eyes.
- Clean Environment: Keep your living space dust and allergen-free.
- Limit Smoking and Alcohol: Quit smoking and drink alcohol in moderation.
- Manage Chronic Conditions: Control diabetes and other chronic health issues.
- Adequate Sleep: Ensure restful sleep for overall well-being.
- Monitor Vision Changes: Report any vision changes or discomfort to your ophthalmologist.
