Cataract Lens Replacement Procedure

Cataract lens replacement is a common and effective procedure to treat cataracts, a condition characterized by clouding of the natural lens of the eye. A buildup of proteins (with age) causes cataracts to form on the natural lens, creating clouded vision. Cataract surgery is the only remedy. The surgery is very safe, quick and effective, and the cataract lens replacement procedure is very straightforward.

During the surgery, the surgeon removes the cloudy natural lens and replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). Our surgeons perform the procedure as an outpatient procedure in one of our convenient Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania locations.

The preparation

Regarding the procedure, we first do a preoperative assessment at an appointment scheduled before your surgery. An ophthalmologist will perform a thorough eye examination and we will assess the severity of the cataract at that time. We will also take measurements to determine the appropriate intraocular lens to implant. So many advancements in lens technology have been made that we can not only correct the cataract but can at the same time also correct all types of refractive errors, including nearsightedness, farsightedness, astigmatism and presbyopia.

We perform cataract surgery under local anesthesia to numb the eye and surrounding tissue. In some cases, we may use mild sedation to help patients relax.

The surgery

During the surgery, the surgeon makes a small incision in the cornea (the clear front part of the eye), then uses a special instrument to break up the cloudy lens into tiny fragments which are suctioned from the eye. Once the cataract is removed, the artificial lens is placed. No stitches are required to secure the lens or to close the small incision. Cataract surgery typically takes less than 30 minutes.

After care

After the surgery, patients rest quietly in our recovery area. We monitor you before going home, and we will cover your eye with a protective shield to avoid accidental rubbing. We correct one eye at a time, so only one eye will be shielded. Patients usually experience minimal discomfort and usually have a quick recovery, noticing improved vision within a few days. Once the lens is replaced, light can once again pass through the eye unobstructed, restoring clear vision. After the procedure, patients notice a significant improvement in vision, with colors appearing more vivid and objects becoming sharper and more defined.

Cataracts can cause blurry vision, difficulty seeing at night, increased sensitivity to light, and overall reduced vision quality. We can monitor cataracts and make changes in glasses prescriptions to prolong surgery, but eventually surgery is needed to correct the cataract.

Patients who have cataract surgery can dramatically enhance quality of life for those suffering from cataracts. At Eye Consultants of Pennsylvania, we provide a cataract surgery experience tailored to an individual patient’s needs. As with any surgical procedure, there are risks involved, and it’s crucial to discuss the benefits and potential complications with the ophthalmologist to make an informed decision about the treatment. Come see us today at one of our convenient locations. Let’s discuss your cataract surgery.