One of the common eye diseases is a cataract, in which the lens of the eye is covered by a cloudy or opaque film that affects vision. This occurs in 20.5 million Americans aged 40 and older, and half of all Americans aged 80.
There are several forms of cataract surgical operations. One of the most common is phacoemulsification, where the surgeon makes a small incision near the cornea to remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial one made of plastic or silicone.
To ensure you have a good cataract surgery recovery, there are several aftercare procedures you have to go through. The operation is not risk free. However, it is normal to experience some discomfort afterwards.
Here is what you can expect after a cataract surgery:
-Regular visits to your physician
Part of your cataract surgery recovery is to regularly visit your doctor to check the condition of your eye’s lens. You will have to do this for a few weeks until the incision in your eye is fully healed. The doctor will also monitor any complications that may arise from the surgery.
-Inflammation
There is a tendency to develop inflammation following the operation. That is why you have to be religious in taking the medication prescribed. You should also keep up with applying the eye drops to make sure you are protected against inflammation and infection.
-Use of prescription glasses
Even after your vision has considerably improved you may still need to be fitted with eyeglasses. These will also optimize your recovery.
After Cataract Surgery Complications
There are occasions where complications occur after a cataract surgery. Before the procedure, the ophthalmologist will discuss what these possible complications are and ask you to sign a consent form (which protects him from being sued in case something goes wrong).
The most common complications after a cataract surgery are changes in the eye pressure, inflammation, infection and retinal detachment. There are cases where the artificial lens used does not work and has to be repositioned, exchanged or removed. Some of these complications can lead to vision loss.
There are times wherein the complications arise years beyond the procedure. When this happens a corrective surgery may be needed. The bad thing is that you are exposed once more to develop complications.
Conclusion
To maximize your chance to have a full cataract surgery recovery, look for a board-certified ophthalmologist who is honest, in the first place. You can determine this by asking him for sources that confirm the information he gave you, at the end of the consultation prior to the operation. If the doctor tries to rush you into the procedure, it is a clear sign that he is only after your money and may even cause you complications intentionally. That way you are left needing further procedures done. After the cataract surgery, make sure you follow your doctor’s advice.
Ivan Miller
