All You Need to Know About Cataract Surgery in Michigan
Cataract formation is outcome of the natural process of aging. These are usually marked by the lenses of the eyes getting clouded. Cataract surgery in Michigan is one of the most common eye surgeries and has a high success rate. It is the most commonly performed and the most successful surgery in the United States.
What happens during the surgery?
Cataract surgeries are usually done through a process called phacoemulsification allowing small-incision cataract surgery. The eye surgeon first administers a topical (eyedrop) anesthetic and makes a small incision near the cornea. An ultrasound-producing device is then inserted through this incision, which breaks the diseased lens into tiny fragments. These fragments are then suctioned out. This marks the end of cataract removal.
Now that the natural lens is removed, an artificial lens takes its place. This is called intraocular lens or IOL and the process is called IOL implantation. The traditional lenses only restore either near or distance vision fully. Most often, distance vision is restored and glasses are used to aid near vision.
Crystalens surgery in Michigan and ReStor surgery in Michigan are two of the most advanced lenses that are available today. These lenses, most of the time, eliminate the need to wear glasses after cataract surgery as they restore both near and distance visions.
Cataract surgeries are usually done on an outpatient basis. This means the patients can go home the same day. Some patients even prefer to be awake throughout the surgery. Such patients get numbing eye drops and sedatives to enable them to do this. Cataracts in both eyes are not removed simultaneously. Patients are asked to come at a later date for the other eye.
What to expect after the cataract surgery?
Patients normally feel a mild irritation post surgery. Tearing and light sensitivity may also be experienced. They are advised to wear dark glasses during recovery. Over-the-counter medications for pain and eye drops to prevent infection are prescribed. The medications are continued for about a week’s time. Barring strenuous activities, patients are not restricted from going about their normal activities.
Although improvements in vision are seen the very next day after surgery, maximum improvement is experienced in about a month’s time. Following the doctor’s instructions and taking prescribed medications diligently are vital for best results.
What are the long-term effects?
Lens clouding can sometimes recur after a few months or years. If this happens, the doctor would perform a laser procedure in the office, restoring normal vision. The implanted lenses last for life and do not need replacement.
