Cataract

A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens inside the eye, which leads to a gradual decrease in vision. This condition commonly develops with aging but can also result from trauma, certain medications, or medical conditions like diabetes. When the lens becomes opaque, light cannot properly pass through to the retina, causing blurred or dim vision, difficulty with glare, faded colors, and sometimes double vision.

Symptoms of Cataract

• Blurry or foggy vision

• Difficulty seeing at night or in low light

• Sensitivity to bright lights and glare

• Halos around lights

• Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription

• Fading or yellowing of colors

Cataract Surgery Procedure

Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most commonly performed surgeries worldwide. The procedure involves removing the cloudy natural lens and replacing it with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The surgery is usually done under local anesthesia and takes about 15 to 30 minutes per eye.

Surgical steps include:

1. Anesthesia and preparation: Local anesthesia numbs the eye. The patient is awake but feels no pain. The eye is cleaned and draped.

2. Incision: A tiny incision (about 2-3 mm) is made at the edge of the cornea.

3. Capsulorhexis: The surgeon creates a small circular opening in the thin capsule holding the natural lens.

4. Phacoemulsification: Ultrasound waves are used to break the cloudy lens into tiny pieces, which are then gently suctioned out.

5. Insertion of the IOL: The artificial lens, folded to fit through the small incision, is inserted and unfolds inside the eye.

6. Closing: The incision is usually self-sealing and may not require stitches.

7. Recovery: The patient rests briefly before going home, with eye drops prescribed to prevent infection and inflammation.

Types of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) for Cataract Surgery

After removing the cloudy lens, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted to restore clear vision. There are several types of IOLs, designed to meet different vision needs:

• Monofocal IOLs: Provide clear vision at one distance, usually far. Glasses may still be needed for reading or close work.

• Multifocal IOLs: Designed to give good vision at multiple distances (near, intermediate, and far), reducing the need for glasses.

• Toric IOLs: Correct astigmatism by addressing the irregular shape of the cornea for sharper vision.

• Accommodative IOLs: Mimic the eye’s natural lens flexibility by moving or changing shape inside the eye to help focus at different distances.

Can Both Eyes Be Operated on at the Same Time?

Typically, cataract surgery is performed on one eye at a time with days or weeks in between. This allows the first eye to heal and gives time to assess results before proceeding with the second eye. Operating both eyes simultaneously is generally avoided due to increased risk of complications and difficulty in managing outcomes. However, in rare cases and with strict protocols, simultaneous bilateral surgery might be considered.

Post-Surgery Care

After surgery, patients may experience mild discomfort, itching, or blurred vision which usually improves within days. It’s important to avoid rubbing the eye, heavy lifting, and strenuous activities during recovery. Eye drops to prevent infection and inflammation are prescribed, and regular follow-ups help monitor healing and vision improvement.

💡 Ready to restore clear vision? Contact alaanmed today to schedule your cataract surgery consultation!

 

Benefits of Cataract Surgery

Cataract removal dramatically improves vision clarity, color perception, and overall quality of life. It reduces dependence on glasses and allows patients to resume daily activities safely. Modern IOLs can also correct other vision problems like astigmatism or presbyopia, providing sharper focus at multiple distances.

Why Choose alaanmed?

alaanmed offers access to highly skilled ophthalmologists using state-of-the-art technology and personalized care. We guide you through every step, ensuring safe, effective treatment and a smooth recovery. Choose alaanmed for world-class cataract surgery tailored to your needs.