Your New Lens After Cataract Surgery
The prospect of cataract surgery can be quite daunting. It may be an extremely common and simple procedure, but it is surgery nonetheless and any surgery can be frightening. The first step in alleviating your fears is talking to your doctor. He or she will discuss with you how the procedure is done so some of the fear of the unknown diminishes.
Many people think that cataract is similar to LASIK surgery. They may both be quick, outpatient procedures, but the techniques used are different. At your initial consultation for cataract surgery in Houston, your ophthalmologist will explain to you what will be done. Contrary to popular beliefs, a laser is not used to remove the cataracts. And what most people do not know is that in order to remove the infected lens, the entire lens must be removed. In order to do this, ultrasound waves are used to break up the lens and then the pieces of the lens are suctioned from the eye. Ones the entire infected lens has been removed, an intraocular artificial lens is put in its place. The procedure should take no more than an hour and is often done at an ambulatory surgery center.
There are several types of intraocular lenses that can be used for Houston cataract surgery. The most common type is called a monofocal lens. The power in this type of lens is evenly distributed and can provide high-quality distance vision. Toric lenses have unevenly distributed power and can treat both nearsightedness, as well as astigmatism. However, glasses may be needed for reading even after having the surgery. You will not be fitted for these glasses until months later after your eyesight has stabilized. Multifocal lenses have increased power in some regions and less power in others. People who are treated for this type of lens will be able to see at a number of distances. However, glare problems are sometimes encountered so multifocal lenses are not for everyone.
You will discuss your lens options with your Houston cataract eye surgery doctor before committing to the procedure. A good doctor will help you make an individualized decision that is right for you and answer any questions you might have about the procedure. You may have known you had cataracts just from the cloudiness in your vision before being diagnosed, but your fears have kept you from doing anything about them. Once your worries are put to rest and you firmly decide to go ahead with the surgery, you will feel both relieved and happy as you look forward to a clearer life ahead of you.
