Eye

How is a cataract treated?

Cataract can only be treated with a surgery which involves removal of the cloudy lens and implantation of an artificial biocompatible clear plastic lens, called an intraocular lens (IOL), into the eye. The lens sits in a little 'pocket' (the lens capsule) to keep it in place. The lens is folded when it is inserted. Once in position, it is allowed to unfold. This IOL then becomes a permanent part of your eye, taking over the optical function of our natural lens to focus light onto the retina, thus improving your vision. After the procedure, you will not feel or see the new lens, nor does it need any extra eye care.

 What are the different types of cataract surgery?

There are two types of cataract surgery:

1.      Phacoemulsification or phaco (small incision cataract surgery) is the surgery of choice currently. This is a keyhole surgery done under local anesthesia. It involves inserting a tiny probe into the eye through a small incision made on the side of the cornea (the clear surface that covers the front of the eye). The tip of this probe emits ultrasonic waves that break the lens into smaller pieces which can then be sucked out. Because the incision is so small, it is self sealing and no stitches are required after the procedure. This has greatly reduces the cornea unevenness and produces a very good visual outcome.

2.      Extracapsular surgery. In this procedure, a longer incision on the side of the cornea is made to remove the cataractous lens in one piece. Because the incision is much bigger, hence stitches are required to close the wound. 

The replacement lens

Different types of replacement lens are available. For example:

• fixed strength lenses (monofocal) - set for one level of vision, usually distance vision,
• multifocal lenses - allow two or more different strengths, such as near and distance vision, and
• Accommodating lenses - allow the eye to focus on both near and distant objects, in a way similar to the natural human lens.

 What are the risks of cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is a relatively safe surgery with minimal risks, such as infection and bleeding. Before and after the surgery, you will be reminded of certain precautions in order to minimize the risk of the surgery. You must keep your eye clean, wash your hands before touching your eye, and use the prescribed medications accordingly to help minimizing the risk of infection.

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