A cataract is a clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which sits behind the iris and pupil, usually caused by aging. This lens is mostly made of water and protein, and over time, these proteins can break down and clump together. This clumping scatters light before it reaches the retina. Cataracts usually develop slowly, so in the early stages, updated glasses or brighter lighting can help manage symptoms. Surgery is typically recommended when blurred vision, glare, faded colors, or poor night vision interfere with daily activities. Here’s more information on cataract surgery:
Removing Your Natural Lenses
Because a cataract forms within the lens itself, glasses and medication cannot clear it. Cataract surgery removes the clouded lens and replaces it with a clear artificial lens. This allows light to pass through the eye and focus on the retina again. Most surgeons use a technique called phacoemulsification, where the surgeon makes a small incision at the edge of the cornea and inserts a thin ultrasound probe. The probe breaks the clouded lens into fragments, which are then suctioned out.
The thin capsule that held the natural lens stays in place to support the new lens. Some surgeons use a femtosecond laser for certain steps, such as creating incisions or softening the lens. The intraocular lens implant (IOL) is personalized to each patient’s needs. IOLs are made from acrylic or silicone and are designed to remain in the eye permanently. Some common symptoms that may signal surgery is necessary are:
- Halos Around Bright Lights
- Worsening, Blurry Vision
- Double Vision
Getting an Intraocular Lens Implant
Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure that generally takes 15 to 30 minutes per eye. Before the procedure, the care team dilates the pupil with eye drops. Numbing drops block sensation in the eye, and a mild sedative may be offered to help you relax. The surgery then typically follows these stages:
- Removing the Lens: The surgeon creates a small incision, opens the front of the lens capsule, and removes the cataract.
- Implanting the IOL: A folded IOL is inserted through the incision, and it unfolds inside the capsule and settles into position.
- Closing the Incisions: The incisions usually seal on their own without stitches. A protective shield may be placed over the eye.
You will need someone to drive you home after this surgery, and prescribed eye drops are used to reduce the risk of infection and inflammation. Your vision may be blurry at first; many patients notice gradual improvement over several days.
Types of Intraocular Lenses
Modern eye healthcare offers three different types of lens implants for cataract surgery. Your ophthalmologist can review your eye measurements, lifestyle, and visual goals to help you choose an appropriate lens. Monofocal lenses provide focus at one distance, usually far. Patients with monofocal IOLs often still need reading glasses. Many insurance plans cover standard monofocal lenses.
Multifocal lenses are premium IOLs with multiple focusing zones, so they can address near, intermediate, and distance vision at once, potentially reducing reliance on glasses. Some people notice halos or glare around lights at night. Toric lenses are designed for astigmatism, which occurs when the cornea or lens has an irregular shape. These lenses have different powers in different meridians. The surgeon aligns the lens with the axis of your astigmatism.
Prepare for Your Cataract Surgery
To learn about your eye health, contact an eye doctor for a comprehensive eye exam. If you have cataracts, your surgeon will measure your eye length and curvature to calculate the correct lens power. If you wear contact lenses, you may need to stop wearing them before these measurements. Your surgeon will explain each step, and you can ask questions about lens options and recovery. An informed approach can help you set realistic expectations for your results.
