Cataracts – Surgery Overview

Transcript

Cataracts are treated by cataract surgery and what that is is a lens exchange, so we’re taking the cloudy lens out of the eye and putting in a clear lens implant in its place. It sounds really involved (and it technically is) but it’s a quick procedure. Within 10-15 minutes, patients can undergo cataract surgery. It’s done as an outpatient, usually using just eyedrop anesthesia. The patient doesn’t feel any pain and although it is kind of scary to think about, the recovery is really fast and most patients will notice an improvement in their vision within a few days. There are risks of cataract surgery like any procedure, so despite the full intention and expectation of a good outcome, obviously things can happen. It’s important for patients to have a thorough discussion with their ophthalmologist prior to proceeding so they can understand if there are any special circumstances relating to their case.