Written By: Dr Prakash Nayak | Updated : February 25, 2015 4:25 AM IST
There are several surgical techniques for cataract removal. The operating surgeon is the best person to decide which technique is likely to yield the best result.
The surgery takes very little time and patients need to wear black/dark glasses for a day or two. These lenses are usually permanent and don't need to be changed and are of different types:
How much visual recovery can one expect?
Cataract surgeries have a very high success rate (over 99%). It is however important to realize that factors such as the condition of the retina, optic nerve, pre-existing disease, amblyopia (lazy eye), etc play a very important role in the visual recovery after cataract surgery. Sometimes it may be difficult to diagnose the abnormality before the surgery because of the dense cataract.
Are there any after-effects of surgery?
In most cataract surgeries (including Phacoemulsification) the posterior part of the lens (the posterior capsule) is left behind. It is usually clear and forms a support for implantation of the intraocular lens. Since it is a part of the lens, it may become opaque and hamper vision even after cataract surgery. This condition is called posterior capsular opacification (colloquially known as 'chari'). It may develop within a few months to few years from surgery, though its incidence is significantly reduced with foldable lenses. Chari is treated as an OPD procedure by a laser that takes about 1-2 minutes only.
What precautions does one have to take after the surgery?
The technique is such that a person can resume their normal lifestyle very soon. One can start reading after a day or two. While office work shouldn't prove troublesome, one should avoid dusty environments or work that can cause physical strain. One should also avoid exercising and other sort of workouts for four to six weeks. Swimming should be avoided for two months at least.
