Cataracts are a common condition that affects many people as they age. With age, proteins in the lens start to break down, causing the lens of the eyes to become cloudy. Cataract surgery is an effective way of removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens, which will help in see better. If you are suffering from cataracts and wondering what’s the best cataract treatment, here are some insights that you will help:
- When can cataract surgery be done?
If you have a cataract, that doesn’t mean you need surgery. Some people, especially those who are not too old manage well with the condition if they wear prescription glasses or use a magnifying lens or use brighter lighting. However, your eye doctor may suggest surgery when cataracts cause more severe symptoms such as dim or blurred vision or double. Surgery is usually recommended when cataracts make it too hard to read, work on a computer, drive or do anything else that is needed for clear eyesight.
- Basics of cataract surgery
During cataract surgery, the natural lens inside your eye is replaced with an artificial lens for restoring clear vision. The surgery is an outpatient procedure. This means it does not require an overnight stay in the hospital.
There are mainly two types of cataract surgeries:
- Phacoemulsification surgery: Cataract Phacoemulsification surgery is a commonly performed surgical procedure to treat cataracts. This type of surgery involves breaking up the cataract using ultrasound energy and then removing it from the eye. Phacoemulsification surgery is safe and effective, and most people who have the procedure experience significant improvement in their vision.
- Laser cataract surgery: Laser cataract surgery is a type of surgery that uses a laser to break up and remove the cloudy lens inside your eye. This can help improve vision. The surgeons first make a small incision in the eye. They will then use the laser to break up the cloudy lens and suction it out. A new, clear lens will be put in its place. Laser cataract surgery can be done in just a few minutes. Recovery from laser cataract surgery is usually quick. Most people can see well enough to return to their normal activities within a day or two.
- Which is better: Phacoemulsification surgery or laser cataract surgery?
The goal of any cataract surgery is to give the best vision possible. Both types of surgery are safe and widely performed, so it’s important to talk to your eye doctor to determine which type of surgery is best for you.
- Which has the shorter recovery time?
The recovery time for both phacoemulsification and laser cataract surgery is the same. Some people may find their vision clear within just a week or two, while few others can see clearly almost immediately. It takes about 3 months to fully recover from cataract surgery.
- How will the doctor decide whether you are an ideal candidate for surgery?
There are several factors that will be taken into account in order to decide if cataract surgery is the best option for you. These include:
- The severity of your cataracts
- How much they are impacting your daily life and activities
- Your overall health
- Your age
Cataract surgery: Looking for the best eye treatment in Kolkata?
We, at Disha Hospitals, have eye surgeons who have years of experience in performing Phacoemulsification and laser cataract surgeries. We have over 15 branches in West Bengal and our doctors have performed over 1,000,000 successful surgeries. Book online consultation or visit the nearest branch to consult for eye doctors.