Details About Cataract Surgery San Antonio

By Eloise Hewitt


Cataract surgery is used in removing the lens of the eye and replacing it with artificial ones. Cataracts refer to the clouding of the lens which ideally should always be clear. Eye doctors or ophthalmologists are the specialists who perform the treatment. It is performed on an outpatient basis, meaning that patients do not stay hospitalized after it is done. When considering cataract surgery San Antonio residents have to be conversant with all the details of this procedure. It is a generally safe procedure.

When it reaches a level where the individual is not able to go about their daily chores normally, then the surgery remains the best option of treatment. Furthermore, there are times when cataracts interfere with treatment of other conditions of the eyes. For example, they may make it difficult for the ophthalmologist to examine the interior sections of the eye. This will also call for surgical operation to remove the clouding.

Fortunately for those involved, there is no harm in taking time before going for treatment, it is never an emergency situation. The advantage of this is that one has the time to weigh their options and make a well informed decision. Actually, people whose vision is still good may not need the surgery for many years. The ability of the individual to clearly see faces, ability to watch television without struggling and also go for shopping or cook are some of the factors determining need for treatment.

Any complications or risks that come after the surgical operation are rare. Among the risks are swelling, inflammation, retinal detachment and bleeding. In some instances, underlying conditions make it impossible for surgery to enhance vision. Such eye underlying problems would have to be treated first.

There is some prior preparation that is required. A painless ultrasound test is performed one week before treatment so that the actual size and shape of the eyes are determined. This will help in deciding on the best size of lens implant to be used. Certain medications are also supposed to be avoided as they may lead to complications. There are medications that may increase bleeding.

For reduction of the risk of infection, there is the use of eye drops. These are used one or two days in prior. Moreover, there are times when the doctor advises against eating or drinking anything before the actual day. Being an outpatient procedure, it takes an hour or less to complete. Local anesthesia is used to numb the area in question. Sedatives are used for relaxation. Sedatives make the individual to remain awake but groggy during the surgical operation.

The lens that is clouded is removed and replaced with one that is artificial and clear. In some cases, a lens is removed without replacing it with a clear one. The improvement in vision is noticed a few days following treatment. Patients will be required to visit the doctor periodically after surgery.

For most people that go for the procedure, vision is restored successfully. Though there are side effects that may be experienced, these are rare and should be reported to the doctor at once. Among the expected complications is retinal detachment as well as increased eye pressure.




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