1. Phacoemulsification cataract surgery
The procedure starts off with you being slightly sedated: mild sedation is applied by an anaesthetist so you don’t feel anything. Once this is done, the doctor proceeds to make a small incision at the edge of the cornea to enter the eye. They will break up the cataract using ultrasound and remove the cataract. An artificial lens will then be implanted to restore your sight. No stitches are required as the wound often seals on its own.
The entire process takes about 30 – 45 minutes and is treated as a day case so you need not stay overnight.
After surgery, you’ll need to apply medicated eye drops to improve recovery and prevent infection. Your eye will usually heal thoroughly after a month.
Phacoemulsification is the standard cataract surgery procedure and has a 95% success rate. This is still the procedure of choice and is suitable for most patients.
2. Laser-assisted cataract surgery
This is similar to phacoemulsification surgery where ultrasound energy is used to break up the cataract. The difference is that laser is used to replace certain steps of the procedure. Laser-assisted cataract surgery uses a femtosecond laser to remove cataracts accurately and precisely, replacing the use of handmade incisions.
What are the risks of cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is generally safe but as with any other surgery, it carries a risk of infection and bleeding.
There is also a risk of retinal detachment with the surgery. This happens when the retina, which sits all the way back in the eye pulls away from โปรโมชั่นพิเศษจาก UFABET สมัครตอนนี้ รับโบนัสทันที its position. Signs of retinal detachment include:
- Feeling like a curtain has fallen away over part of your eye
- Having new floating spots in your vision
- Seeing flashes of light
See your doctor immediately if you notice any of these signs.
Tips for post cataract surgery
Recovery from a cataract surgery is usually short and uneventful. You may find yourself easily resuming your usual activities within a day after the surgery. However, you should take extra care especially during the first week of surgery. Here are some tips you can observe to get the best recovery and prevent future complications:
- Immediately after the procedure, avoid bending over so that you don’t put extra pressure on your eye
- If possible, don’t sneeze or vomit right after surgery
- Don’t drive on the first day following surgery
- Take the prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops to prevent infections
- Don’t lift anything heavy or perform strenuous activities for a few weeks
- Be careful when walking around to avoid bumping into doors or other objects
- Avoid swimming or using a hot tub during the first week of surgery to avoid infection
- Don’t expose your eye to irritant such as dust, dirt, wind and pollen during the first few weeks of surgery
- Don’t rub your eye after surgery