Useful Facts About Cataract Surgery San Antonio TX

By Frank Gray


Cataract surgery is a procedure used in removing the lens of eyes and replacing it with an artificial one. Under normal circumstances the lens is clear but the cataract causes it to become cloudy and in the process vision is affected. The surgery is performed by eye doctors, normally on an outpatient basis. This means one does not need to stay in hospital after surgery. In considering cataract surgery San Antonio TX residents need to know what is involved.

Cataracts might bring about blurry vision and increase the glare from lights. In the event that cataracts make it hard to perform normal activities, the best option may be to opt for surgery. In case the condition does not allow you to do daily activities, the way out would be to go for surgery. For instance, in case the doctor cannot examine the back of the eye because of cataracts, they will suggest the surgical procedure.

It is possible that there will be complications during or after the surgical procedure. Most of these are however treatable. Among the possible risks include bleeding, inflammation, glaucoma and vision loss. Risk of complications will be greater in those with eye diseases or chronic ailments. On some occasions, treatment fails to solve the underlying issues owing to underlying eye damage. Underlying issues include glaucoma or macular degeneration.

Preparation for the procedure is important. Undergoing certain tests is one of the preparation requirements. For instance, one week to the procedure, the doctor performs ultrasound tests for measurement of size and shape of eyes. This helps in determination of the lenses to use. The doctor might also advise the patient to cease taking some medications that may increase bleeding risk. Patients should always disclose whatever medications they might be taking before the procedure.

Use of eye drops will help in reducing risk of infection. Doctors may prescribe antibiotic eye drops to be used some two days after surgery. It is also possible that one may be instructed not to drink or eat anything some 12 hours before treatment. After surgical procedures involving eyes, some activities may be limited. These include bending and lifting. These may be limited for some two weeks after treatment.

Almost all people that have undergone the treatment will be given artificial lens called an intraocular lens. There are a number of surgical techniques used to remove cataracts. The first involves the use of ultrasound probes for breaking up lens that will be removed. Surgeons will make a tiny opening at the cornea before inserting a probe within the lens substance. Cataracts are broken using the probe. In order to close the incisions made earlier, stitching will be used.

The second surgical procedure involves making an incision in the eye, removing the lens in a single piece. It is a procedure that might require larger incisions. After the removal of cataracts, the artificial lens will be implanted into empty lens capsule.

After the surgical procedure is done, vision starts to improve after a couple days. In the earlier stages, vision will be blurry as eyes adjust. Some colors will look brighter during the earlier stages. Arising complications during recovery should be reported to the doctor.




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