Surgery for a cataract involves removing the natural lens of the eye that contains the cataract. The natural lens is replaced with an artificial lens called an intraocular lens implant (IOL). An IOL is placed inside the eye during surgery. Corrective glasses may be needed after surgery for reading and close work, but they are not as thick and heavy as traditional cataract glasses. A cataract operation is usually done under local anesthetic, which will numb the eye, and therefore, the patient will be comfortable, but not able to see what is happening
The operation normally takes 15-20 minutes, but might take up to 45 minutes.

The usual method used to remove the cataract is a technique called phaco-emulsification. The surgeon makes a tiny hole in the eye, usually only about 3 mms, softens the lens with sound waves and removes it through a small tube. During the operation fluid is flushed all the time the front part of the eye to keep the eye inflated and to remove all the cataract debris. The back half of the lens capsule is left behind. An artificial lens or implant is inserted to replace the cataract. Many surgeons use foldable lens implant to keep the incision as small as possible, these lenses made from a pliable plastic that fit to pass through the small incision. Inside the eye the lens unfold and locate in the right place, usually in the same place as the natural lens. The lens implant locate with part of the thin membranous that protected the natural lens, this procedure called "capsular bag".

For certain reasons it needs sometime another surgical approach such as larger incision, in that case a very small stitch is put in the eye. At the end of the operation, a pad or shield may be put over your eye to protect it.

Cataract Surgery is highly successful for more than 90% of patients that are able to have good vision again.

Following the day of surgery:

Itching and mild discomfort are normal after cataract surgery. Some fluid discharge is also common. Your eye may be sensitive to light and touch. If you have discomfort, your doctor can suggest treatment. After one or two days, moderate discomfort should disappear.

For a few days after surgery, your doctor may ask you to use eye drops to help healing and decrease the risk of infection. Ask your doctor about how to use your eye drops, how often to use them, and what effects they can have. You will need to wear an eye shield or eyeglasses to help protect your eye. Avoid rubbing or pressing on your eye.

When you are home, try not to bend from the waist to pick up objects on the floor. Do not lift any heavy objects. You can walk, climb stairs, and do light household chores.

In most cases, healing will be complete within eight weeks. Your doctor will schedule exams to check on your progress.

What are the common problems encountered after surgery?

Problems after surgery rarely occur. These can include infection, bleeding, inflammation or light flashes. With prompt medical attention, these problems can be treated.

Can a Cataract Return?

A cataract cannot return because all or part of the lens has been removed. However, in some people who have had extracapsular surgery or phacoemulsification, the lens capsule becomes cloudy after a year. It causes the same vision problems as a cataract does. To correct this, laser capsulotomy can be performed. In laser (YAG) capsulotomy a laser (light) beam is used to make a tiny hole in the capsule to let light pass. This surgery is painless and does not require stay in the hospital.

Benefits

• Safety.
• Back to everyday activities as working, driving and reading.
• Social activities and hobbies.
• Self-confidence and Independence.

Risks of Cataract Surgery

• Pressure in the eye.
• Damage or dislocation of artificial lens.
• Drooping eyelid.
• Infection or bleeding or blood collection inside the eye
• Clouding of the cornea or retinal detachment.
• Blindness and loss of the eye