Information On Cataract Surgery San Antonio

By Eloise Hewitt


With cataract surgery, there is replacement of the lens of the eyes which is clouded with a clear one which is artificial. Therefore, the surgery treats the lens of the eyes that is clouded. Eye doctors or ophthalmologists are the specialists that perform the procedure. When going for cataract surgery San Antonio residents ought to be conversant with details about the procedure. It is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning patients are treated and released on the same day.

When it reaches a level where the individual is not able to go about their daily chores normally, then the surgery remains the best option of treatment. Furthermore, there are times when cataracts interfere with treatment of other conditions of the eyes. For example, they may make it difficult for the ophthalmologist to examine the interior sections of the eye. This will also call for surgical operation to remove the clouding.

Fortunately for those involved, there is no harm in taking time before going for treatment, it is never an emergency situation. The advantage of this is that one has the time to weigh their options and make a well informed decision. Actually, people whose vision is still good may not need the surgery for many years. The ability of the individual to clearly see faces, ability to watch television without struggling and also go for shopping or cook are some of the factors determining need for treatment.

Despite the fact that any complications or risks are uncommon, it is possible that some may be experienced. Some of these include bleeding, swelling, loss of vision, inflammation and retinal detachment among others. There are certain instances in which other underlying conditions will prevent the surgery from improving vision. It is always advisable to treat other eye problems before deciding to treat cataracts.

There is some level of preparation that is required prior to the treatment. For instance, there is an ultrasound test that is carried out one week in advance to test the shape and size of the eyes. This will be used in determining the right size of implants to be used. There are also some medications that patients will be advised against using because they will increase the probability of complications being experienced.

In order that risks during infection may be reduced, eye drops are used. These are applied one or two days before the procedure. There also are instances when the individual may be advised against eating or drinking anything during the day of surgery. The entire procedure is completed in one hour or even less. The eyes get numbed using local anesthesia, with sedatives used for relaxation purposes. Sedation makes people stay awake but feel groggy during the procedure.

The actual procedure involves removing the lens that is clouded and replacing it with an artificial, clear one. There are a few instances in which the lenses are removed without being replaced. Improvement will be realized some days after treatment.

This procedure has managed to restore vision in majority of the people that go for it. While most of the side effects are temporary, they should be reported to the doctor if they become extreme. Expected complications include retinal detachment and increased pressure of eyes.




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