Cataract which is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens is the most common, treatable cause of decreased vision. It is most commonly seen in adults of 50 years of age or older. However sometimes cataract can also occur In children and younger adults. Cataract is not a disease. It is important to understand that it is a normal aging process. Some other causes include trauma, exposure to UV light, metabolic problems, chronic steroid use, smoking and diabetes. In the olden days it was a misconception that one should wait till the cataract ripens or becomes fully mature. But today, the moment it starts to interfere with the common daily or routine activities of life, one should get it surgically removed. The only treatment for cataract is surgery. Eye drops and tablets have no role in its cure. Modern cataract surgery is done by the ultrasound technology called phacoemulsification. At The Eye Clinic we offer a range of cataract surgeries to suit every individual with different types of foldable and non-foldable lenses.
What is cataract?
Cataract is the cloudiness of the normal human crystalline lens.
What are the symptoms of cataract?
Some common symptoms experienced by the patient include:
- - Decreased vision
- - Altered contrast sensitivity
- - Haloes around light
- - Haloes around light
- - Polyopia(seeing more than 1 image)
What is the treatment of cataract?
Surgical extraction of the cataractous lens with an intraocular lens implantation is the only treatment available for cataract.
What are the types of cataract surgery?
They are extracapsular cataract extraction(ECCE)-with sutures, small incision cataract surgey(SICS)- 5mm incision with no sutures and the latest technique called phacoemulsification(2-3 mm incision size).
What are the different types of IOLs available?
IOLs may be either unifocal or multifocal. These again may be either foldable or non-foldable and either Indian or of the foreign type.
What are the benefits of phaco surgery?
These include:
- - Faster postoperative recovery
- - Smaller incision size
- - Less discomfort
- - Can be done under topical anaesthesia.
Do I need to get admitted?
No. Cataract procedures are now routinely done as a day-care procedure.
Will I need to wear glasses post surgery?
One would require glasses for near vision which would be prescribed after 2 weeks.
