Cataract Surgery
Thanks to a variety of technological advancements and improvements, cataract surgery has evolved from a standard medical procedure with a single option for lenses to one with a variety of vision correction options.
Now, not only can cataract surgery remove cataracts, but it can also correct a wide variety of refractive errors, such a myopia (nearsightedness), hyperopia (farsightedness), astigmatism, and presbyopia.
What To Expect From Cataract Surgery
Our surgeons at TLC Laser Eye Centres utilize state-of-the-art technology to offer quick and advanced cataract removal procedures. During the procedure, the surgeon will remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial lens, called an intraocular lens (IOL). Numbing drops are used to make the procedure pain-free.
The recovery from cataract surgery is often quick. In fact, the incision typically begins to heal within hours of the procedure. Your surgeon may prescribe you eye drops to use for several weeks post-operation.
Most patients can resume their everyday activities within a few days of the procedure.
Benefits of Cataract Surgery
- Can offer clear vision
- Procedure is safe and effective
- No injections or stitches necessary
- Colours appear brighter and more vivid
- Recovery is quick and relatively painless
- Enhances the quality of life; boosts confidence
- Can correct other ocular disorder (ie. presbyopia, astigmatism, myopia/nearsightedness, hyperopia/farsightedness).
Cataract Surgery Steps
Step 1: Cataract Removal
After making a small incision in your eye, your surgeon will insert an instrument about the size of pen tip to remove the cataract, using either high-frequency soundwaves to gently break up the cloudy lens (a process call phacoemulsification) or pulses of fluid to wash it away (known as liquefaction).
Step 2: Lens Insertion.
The cataract-affected lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). IOLs are typically made from a flexible material that allows the surgeon to fold and insert the artificial lens through the small incision. Once inserted, the IOL opens, and its haptics (or “arms”) unfold to keep it in place.
Step 3: Vision Restored.
Once the cataract is removed and the IOL is in the proper position, light can once again travel unimpeded to the back of your eye. Recovery after cataract surgery is generally quick and usually occurs within a few days.
Cataract Surgery Recovery
Although each patient’s recovery and experience are unique, you can typically resume regular activities within a few days of the cataract surgery. Please note that you may experience blurry vision immediately after the procedure, but you should begin to notice an improvement in your vision as the eyes heal. Temporary, mild discomfort in the days following the surgery is also normal.
In order to ensure the best post-operative results, it is imperative to follow all post-surgical instructions and to see your eye doctor for all scheduled follow-up appointments.
Intraocular Lens (IOL) Options
An intraocular lens (IOL) refers to the implant that will replace the natural lens of your eye during a cataract surgery. IOLs are often made from a clear plastic and are smaller than a dime.
Schedule an appointment
The needs of every patient are different, so the type of IOL that will be best suited for you is specific to your situation. An eye examination is necessary to determine your candidacy for different types of IOLs.