Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is the process of surgically removing the natural intraocular lens that has lost its transparency and replacing it with an artificial and transparent intraocular lens. The purpose of the operation is to eliminate the vision loss due to cataract.
A healthy eye lens is transparent. However, after cataract formation, it loses its transparency over time. As a result, there is an increasing loss of vision. In summary, cataract is the opacity of the intraocular lens and loss of transparency. Cataract surgery is the only solution to permanently treating this condition.
Operation Details
CATARACT SURGERY DETAILS
Although there are different techniques in cataract surgery applications, there is a common purpose for all of them. Cataract operation is an eye surgery microsurgery. All operations are performed under the microscope with the help of very small instruments.
The average duration of the operation is between 10-15 minutes, depending on the hardness of the cataract in the intraocular lens. The general application stages of the operation are as follows:
- Before the operation, drops are applied to the eye to enlarge the pupil. At this stage, if deemed appropriate by the doctor, the patient may be given a sedative.
- The patient is taken to the operating room and is allowed to lie on the operating bed. After a sterile drape is covered over and around the eye, anesthetic drops are applied to the eye so that the patient does not feel anything during the operation. The patient is asked to constantly look at a fixed light directly above the eye.
- With small incisions made from the outside of the eye, the natural eye lens with cataract is removed from the eye with various techniques. Afterwards, the artificial and transparent intraocular lens, which is determined according to the doctor’s recommendation and the patient’s choice, is placed in the patient’s eye. Some types of operations require stitches, while others do not. At the end of the operation, the eye is closed with a protective tape.
Operation Details
WHICH LENS ARE USED IN THE OPERATION?
With trifocal lenses, patients can obtain clear vision at both near, far and intermediate viewing distances. Thus, the need for glasses is completely eliminated after the operation. Smart lenses can work like a natural intraocular lens and transmit the light coming into the eye from all distances to the retina.
Apart from all these lenses that can be applied to cataract patients, Toric lenses and Add-on (complementary lens) intraocular lens applications can also be applied to patients who require different treatments.
F.A.Q.
Like any surgical procedure, cataract surgery has certain risks. Since the operation is microsurgical, the success of the operation is directly related to the selection of the appropriate method for the appropriate patient, the experience of the ophthalmologist, the quality of the material and the sterilization of the operating room environment.
If there is no reason to reduce vision other than cataract in the eye, an eye that has undergone cataract surgery regains its former vision.
During cataract surgery, the lens placed in the eye can be adjusted to see far or near clearly. Thus, if the eye of the operated person is reset for distance, he can see the distance clearly without glasses, but he needs to use glasses for near. If the eye is made nearsighted with the lens inserted in the surgery, that person will be able to see near without glasses, but the need for glasses for distance will arise. If a multifocal lens is preferred, myopia, hyperopia and astigmatism problems can be solved with a single lens.
No, surgery can be performed at any stage of the cataract, as soon as the cataract forms and the vision begins to decrease.
Yes, there is a higher probability of problems in the surgery of very advanced cataracts. In addition, the operation time is longer in advanced cataracts.
For cataract surgery, narcosis (general anesthesia) is not applied except for pediatric and infant patients. In cataract surgery, different types of local anesthesia are used for adult patients. By injecting around the eye, the eye is numbed and numbed, and eye movements are also eliminated.
If your eye is found suitable after the examination, laser surgery can be performed.
Lazy eye does not improve with cataract surgery. There are different treatment methods for lazy eye.
What is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a surgical procedure performed when the eye’s natural lens loses its transparency. A cataract is an eye condition that occurs when the eye’s natural lens becomes cloudy, leading to reduced visual quality. As it progresses, cataracts can make daily activities increasingly difficult. Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial lens.
How is Cataract Surgery Performed?
Thanks to modern techniques, cataract surgery is now quick and comfortable. The steps of the procedure are as follows:
1. Preparation Process:
Before the surgery, a detailed eye examination is conducted. The severity of the cataract is determined, and a suitable artificial lens is selected for the patient. The patient’s overall health condition is also evaluated.
2. Anesthesia Application:
Local anesthesia is applied using eye drops to ensure the patient feels no pain during the procedure. The area around the eye is numbed, and the patient remains awake throughout the surgery.
3. Removal of the Cataract:
During the surgery, ultrasound waves are used to break the cloudy lens into small pieces, which are then removed from the eye. This method is known as phacoemulsification.
4. Placement of the Artificial Lens:
After the natural lens is removed, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted in its place. This lens is customized to correct the patient’s specific vision needs.
5. Recovery Process:
The surgery usually takes about 15-30 minutes, and the patient is discharged on the same day. A protective bandage is applied to the eye for a short period, and medications are prescribed for use during recovery.
When Should Cataract Surgery Be Performed?
Cataracts can develop due to aging or may be present at birth. Surgery becomes necessary in the following situations:
- Significant reduction in visual clarity
- Inability to see clearly even with glasses or contact lenses
- Increased sensitivity to light and seeing glare
- Difficulty performing daily activities such as driving, reading, or watching television
- Progression of cataracts that threaten overall eye health
Cataract surgery becomes essential when the condition significantly impacts the quality of life.
How is a Cataract Diagnosed?
Cataracts are diagnosed through a detailed eye examination conducted by an ophthalmologist. The following methods are used to confirm the diagnosis:
- Visual Acuity Test: Measures how clearly the patient can see.
- Biomicroscopy: Provides a detailed examination of the lens and other eye structures.
- Pupil Dilation: Eye drops are used to dilate the pupil, allowing the doctor to evaluate the condition of the lens.
Early diagnosis is crucial to prevent further vision loss and manage the condition effectively.
Cataract Treatment Centers in Istanbul
Istanbul is known for its advanced medical facilities and modern cataract treatment centers. Cataract treatment centers in Istanbul offer safe and successful cataract surgeries performed by experienced specialists using cutting-edge technology.
Detailed preoperative examinations ensure a personalized treatment plan for each patient, and post-surgery follow-up is carefully managed. Istanbul’s clinics are preferred by both local and international patients seeking high-quality eye care.
Post-Cataract Surgery Recovery Process
The recovery process after cataract surgery is relatively quick, allowing patients to return to their normal routines shortly after. Patients should take the following precautions during recovery:
- Use prescribed eye drops regularly.
- Avoid rubbing the eyes or putting pressure on them.
- Refrain from heavy lifting or bending over during the first few days.
- Protect the eyes from sunlight by wearing sunglasses.
- Attend all follow-up appointments with the doctor.
Full recovery typically takes a few weeks, and most patients regain clear and sharp vision after the surgery.
Causes of Cataracts
Several factors can contribute to the development of cataracts, including:
- Aging: The most common cause is age-related changes in the eye.
- Genetic Factors: A family history of cataracts can increase the risk.
- Trauma: Eye injuries can lead to cataract formation.
- Diseases: Systemic conditions like diabetes can accelerate cataract development.
- Long-Term Corticosteroid Use: Some medications can have cataract formation as a side effect.
- UV Radiation: Prolonged exposure to sunlight without protection can also contribute to cataract formation.
Regain Clear Vision with Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is a safe and effective treatment that restores visual clarity and improves quality of life. Any concerns about vision should not be ignored, and patients experiencing symptoms of cataracts should consult a specialist promptly. Cataract treatment centers in Istanbul offer personalized treatments with modern equipment and experienced teams. Through cataract surgery, you can regain clear vision and enhance your daily life.