Cataract Surgery

WHAT IS CATARACT SURGERY?

Cataract surgery is an effective surgical procedure for individuals with cataract problems. Cataract is an eye disease that manifests itself with blurring of vision as a result of the lens of the eye becoming dull over time. Cataract surgery is performed by removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens. In this way, the patient gains a clearer and sharper vision.

WHO CAN HAVE CATARACT SURGERY?

Cataract surgery is applied to individuals whose vision quality decreases and affects their daily life negatively. Although it usually occurs due to aging, trauma, genetic factors or some diseases can also cause cataract formation. Cataract surgery is recommended for candidates who have been diagnosed with cataracts and are suitable for surgery.

 

WHAT ARE THE TECHNIQUES USED IN CATARACT SURGERY?
There are two basic methods for cataract surgery:

1. Phacoemulsification (Phaco Method): In this technique, using ultrasonic energy, the lens with cataracts is divided into pieces and removed by suction. Next, the foldable intraocular lens is placed in the eye.

2. Extracapsular Cataract Surgery (ECA): In this method, the cloudy part of the cataract is removed and the lens capsule is preserved. A fixed intraocular lens is then placed in the eye.

 

*Phacoemulsification is preferred because it is less invasive and offers a fast recovery time.

​

PRE-CATARACT SURGERY PROCEDURES

1. Eye Examination: The size of the cataract and the structure of the eye are determined and an appropriate treatment plan is created.

2. Medicines: Regular use of eye drops prescribed by the doctor should be used before the operation.

3. Fasting Period: A fasting period should be followed for a determined time before the surgery.

4. Eye Hygiene: Care should be taken to keep the eyes clean and hygienic.

5. Companion Arrangement: A companion arrangement should be made for the post-operative period.

​

HOW IS THE CATARACT SURGERY DONE?

• Making the Incision: The surgeon makes a small incision on the cornea.

• Removal of Blurred Lens: If the phacoemulsification method is used, the cataract lens is dissected and removed with ultrasonic energy. If the EKA method is used, the lens is removed as a whole.

• Artificial Lens Placement: A collapsible or fixed intraocular lens is inserted in place of the removed cataract lens.

• Incision Closure: The incisions are sutured or left to heal on their own.

​

AFTER-CATARACT SURGERY PROCEDURES

• After the operation, it is important to rest the eyes for a while determined by the doctor.

• Use of Eye Drops: Eye drops prescribed by the doctor should be used regularly.

• Eye Hygiene: It is important to keep the eyes clean and not rubbed.

• Glasses and Activities: Pay attention to the use of glasses and physical activities recommended by your doctor after the surgery.

• Following Checkups: Planned follow-up appointments should be attended regularly and your doctor's instructions should be followed.

Please note that the information provided here is for general information purposes and may differ for each patient. It is always best to follow your doctor's recommendations and act according to your personal situation.