A cataract is cloudiness in the natural focusing lens of the eye. The eye works like a camera. Light rays entering the eye are focused on the retina by a lens behind the pupil. With age, the lens loses clarity and the image projected to the retina becomes less sharp. Early cataracts can often be treated with a new pair of glasses. Eventually, however, as aging changes continue, the lens becomes so cloudy that surgery is necessary.
Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is performed with an ultrasound machine that breaks up the cataract into tiny particles that are removed from the eye, a process called “phacoemulsification." Sutures are not usually necessary as the incision is under 3 millimeters wide.
At the time of surgery, an intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted in the eye.
This IOL focuses the vision for the eye.
The procedure is performed in an outpatient surgery facility.
Drops are necessary for a few weeks after surgery,
and patients are encouraged to avoid heavy lifting for two weeks.
