Cataract surgery is a medical procedure in which the the cloudy eye lens and replace it (in most cases) with a form of artificial lens called an intraocular lens implant (IOL).http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/cataract-surgery.htm This is usually an outpatient procedure that is performed by an ophthalmologist, and is considered a fairly routine procedure.http://www.mayoclinic.com/health/cataract-surgery/MY00164

The surgery is employed to treat advanced cases of cataracts--a medical condition in which the eye lens begins to cloud and can cause blurry vision, faded colors, glare, and even possibly eventual blindness.http://vision.healthcommunities.com/cataracts/index.shtml When cataracts have advanced to a point where they are inhibiting the function of everyday life for a patient, doctors may discuss surgical treatment options. Once surgery has been decided upon, patients and doctors may also discuss different types of IOLs that are available, and what medications may pose health risks when having cataract surgery.http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/cataract-surgery.htm

Before surgery begins, doctors will often take several eye measurements. The cataract surgery itself will usually last approximately 10 minutes per eye (most operations work on just one eye at a time). Patients may expect to be at the treatment center for in excess of 90 minutes in most cases.http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/cataract-surgery.htm

During surgery, a sedative may be given to the patient. Then the skin near the eye will be cleaned and an incision will be made in the eye to remove the lens using an ultrasound device that breaks up cataracts and suctions them out of the eye. The IOL is then put in place and a surgeon may or may not opt to use sutures to close the incisions (when used the sutures rarely need to be removed).http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/cataract-surgery.htm

Once the surgery is complete, a form of bandage or eye patch will be placed over the eye. People having cataract surgery are not able to drive themselves home after the procedure, and will need to wear dark glasses to shield the eyes from the sun. Blurred vision can typically last for a few days or weeks after the surgery.http://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/cataract-surgery.htm

Patients who have had cataract surgery will likely be advised by their doctor(s) to follow these typical precautions to avoid damage to the eye or other forms of injury. These precautions are put in place to provide for optimal recovery.

1. No heavy lifting (over 25 lbs.)
2. No getting water in the eye--patients must be guarded when showering or bathing
3. No participating in grimy or dirty activities where dirt or other small particles could land in the eye (including changing cat litter boxes)
4. No exercising or bendinghttp://www.allaboutvision.com/conditions/cataract-surgery.htm

The content in this page is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please contact a doctor before using the information presented here.