Eye Health And Cataract Surgery

As a person ages, the proteins within the eye lens may break down. As proteins clump together, a cataract may form. A cataract is a cloudy film that could interfere with a person's vision. 

Eye Health

An optometrist is a medical provider who will assess the health of a person's eyes. They will use lights and various optometry tools to look into the eyes. During the testing process, the lens, the optic nerve, and the retina will be examined. Some people may have cataracts and not require surgery. A person who has cataracts that are not severe may be required to wear corrective lenses.

A more severe cataract may affect a person's vision in a prominent way. A cloudy film that is covering the eye lens could interfere with someone's ability to read or drive. Bright lights and sunlight could irritate the eyes even further. If a cataract issue is severe, an optometrist may recommend that a patient undergoes a surgical procedure.

The Surgery

The surgical procedure is conducted within a standard medical office. A patient will remain seated while the procedure is performed. An ophthalmologist is a doctor who performs cataract surgery. The procedure involves removing the natural lens and replacing it with an artificial one.

An artificial lens may be constructed of silicone, acrylic, or a plastic composite. A patient will remain awake during the procedure. They will, however, be given a sedative or a pain reliever. This will allow a patient to remain comfortable while an opthalmologist performs the procedure. A small incision will be made near the eye. This will allow an opthalmologist to access the lens. The cataract will be suctioned out. Afterward, a new lens will be secured over the eye.

The procedure will not take long to conduct. If a patient has a cataract on each eye lens, an opthalmologist may perform two different surgeries on two different occasions. Sensitivity to light may be experienced, once the surgical procedure is over. The sensitivity will lessen with time. Eye discomfort may also be experienced. Rest will aid with lessening any symptoms that are experienced.

Once the eyes have healed, an improvement in a person's vision will be evident. A person who undergoes cataract surgery should make a follow-up appointment with their optometrist. The optometrist will assess the eyes and may perform a vision test. The testing process will determine how much a patient's vision has improved.