
- 30/03/2024
- Clairevision Eye Hospital
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Seeing Clearly Again: Understanding Cataract Surgery and What to Expect
Is your vision getting cloudy, like looking through a fogged window or a dirty car windshield? You may be experiencing cataract, commonly called Motibindu in India. Cataracts are a natural ageing eye condition where the eye lens becomes cloudy, causing blurred vision, glare, poor night vision, and difficulty in reading or driving. The good news is that cataract eye surgery is one of the safest and most successful eye operations worldwide. In this guide, Seeing Clearly Again: Understanding Cataract Surgery and What to Expect, we explain everything about cataract treatment, phaco cataract surgery, eye lens replacement, cataract surgery cost, recovery time, and life after surgery. At Clairevision Eye Hospital, under the care of Dr. Archana Singh, a leading Eye Surgeon in Pune with 20+ years of experience, patients from Wakad, Punawale, and PCMC receive advanced, safe, and personalized cataract care to restore clear, bright vision.
What Is a Cataract and Why Does Vision Become Cloudy?
Inside your eye, there is a clear lens, much like a camera lens. Its job is to focus light so you can see clear images. As we age, proteins in this lens break down and clump together. This creates a cloudy area called a cataract.
In the early stages, you might just need new glasses. But eventually, the cloudiness grows. You might struggle to read, see faces clearly, or drive at night. This condition is called opacity of lens.
Common Symptoms:
- Blurry or dim vision.
- Difficulty seeing at night (night blindness).
- Sensitivity to light and glare (headlights seem too bright).
- Seeing “halos” around lights.
- Fading or yellowing of colors.
- Double vision in one eye.
What Is Cataract Surgery?
Many patients ask, what is cataracts surgery? In simple terms, it is a procedure to remove the cloudy natural lens and replace it with a clear artificial one, called an Intraocular Lens (IOL).
It is not a complicated “major surgery” like heart surgery. It is a quick eye surgery cataract removal process. At Clairevision Eye Hospital in Pune, we use the latest technology known as Phacoemulsification for cataracts (often called Phaco). This is a stitch-less, painless, and blade-free method where sound waves break the cataract into small pieces, which are then gently suctioned out.
When Do You Need Cataract Surgery?
A common question is: when cataract should be removed? or how bad does cataract have to be for surgery?
You do not need to wait for the cataract to become “ripe” (or hard). You should consider eye surgery when your vision problems start interfering with your daily life.
- Can you read the newspaper comfortably?
- Is it hard to cook or sew?
- Do you feel unsafe driving at night due to glare?
- Is watching TV difficult?
If you answered “yes” to these, it is time to visit Dr. Archana Singh at our Eye Clinic in Wakad for a check-up.
Types of Cataract Surgery Procedures
At Clairevision Eye Hospital, we offer the latest cataracts surgery types to suit your eyes and budget.
1. Phacoemulsification (Phaco)
This is the gold standard procedure for cataract eye surgery. The surgeon makes a tiny incision (cut) in the eye. An ultrasound probe breaks up the cloudy lens (phaco medical term refers to this lens breaking). A foldable lens is then inserted. No stitches are needed.
2. Laser Cataract Surgery (Bladeless)
Also known as Femto-Laser Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS). A laser is used to make the incisions and soften the cataract. This offers extreme precision. Many patients searching for laser eye surgery cataract or bladeless eye lasik technology prefer this for its accuracy.
Types of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs) Used in Cataract Surgery
During the lens replacement eye surgery, the cloudy lens is removed, and a new one is put in. Choosing the right lens is important.
- Monofocal IOLs: These are standard lenses. They fix vision for one distance (usually far). You will likely still need cataract glasses for reading.
- Multifocal IOLs: These work like progressive glasses. You can see near, far, and in-between without glasses.
- Toric IOLs: If you have a cylindrical number (Astigmatism), these lenses correct it so you can see clearly.
Dr. Archana Singh will guide you on the best IOL eye surgery cost and choice based on your lifestyle.
What to Expect Before Cataract Surgery
Once you decide on surgery, preparation for cataract eye surgery begins.
- Eye Measurement (Biometry): We measure the shape and size of your eye to choose the right lens power.
- Health Check: Basic blood pressure and sugar tests.
- Eye Drops: You may be asked to start eye drops for cataract surgery a day before to prevent infection.
- Fasting: You might be asked: can you eat before cataract surgery? Usually, a light meal is fine, but follow the doctor’s specific advice.
What Happens During Cataract Surgery?
Many patients worry: is cataracts surgery painful? or do they put you to sleep for cataract surgery? Here is the truth:
- Anesthesia: You are awake, but your eye is numbed with numbing eye drops. You feel no pain. We do not usually use general anesthesia (putting you to sleep) unless necessary.
- Duration: How long does cataracts surgery last? The actual procedure takes only 10 to 15 minutes.
- The Process: Dr. Archana Singh removes the cloudy lens and inserts the new Phaco IOL.
- After Surgery: You spend a short time in the recovery room and then you can go home. It is a daycare procedure.
Cataract Surgery Recovery – What to Expect After Surgery
Recovery time for cataract surgery is very fast. Most people notice better vision within 24 to 48 hours.
Immediate Recovery (First 24 Hours):
- Your eye might feel a bit scratchy or gritty.
- You may wear a protective eye shield patch or dark glasses.
- Can you eat after cataract surgery? Yes, you can have your normal diet.
First Week:
- Use prescribed post op eye drops strictly.
- Avoid rubbing your eyes.
- Do not splash water directly into your eyes.
- TV and Mobile: You can watch TV, but give your eyes rest.
Common Questions on Recovery:
- How long for cataract recovery? Complete healing takes about 4 weeks, but you can return to normal routine in a few days.
- Driving after cataract operation: You can drive once your vision is clear and you feel comfortable, usually after a few days.
- How to clean eyes after cataract surgery: Use clean cotton/wipes as directed by the doctor.
Risks and Complications of Cataract Surgery
Is cataracts surgery dangerous? No, it is one of the safest surgeries in medicine. However, like any procedure, there are minor risks.
- Cataract surgery risks and complications may include:
- Mild swelling or redness (goes away with drops).
- Infection (very rare if drops are used correctly).
- Posterior Capsule Opacification (PCO): Sometimes, the back part of the lens capsule becomes cloudy months or years later. This is often called a “secondary cataract” or after effects of cataract surgery. It is easily treated with a 2-minute YAG laser procedure.
- Retinal issues: Extremely rare complications like retinal detachment.
Choosing an experienced retina surgeon like Dr. Archana Singh at a reputable place like Clairevision Eye Hospital minimizes these risks significantly.
Life After Cataract Surgery – Seeing Clearly Again
The benefits of cataract surgery are life-changing.
- Colors look brighter: You will be amazed at how blue the sky looks.
- Sharper Vision: Reading and driving become easy.
- Independence: You depend less on others.
- Safety: Less risk of falling or accidents due to poor vision.
Many patients say they wish they had done it sooner!
When Should You Consult an Eye Specialist for Cataract Surgery?
If you notice blurred vision, glare, or frequent change in glasses, consult an eye doctor near you. Regular eye check-ups are important, especially after 40 years.
If you are looking for Cataract Surgery in Pune, Clairevision Eye Hospital is a trusted choice. With advanced technology and expert care by Dr. Archana Singh, patients receive safe and effective treatment.
Conclusion
Seeing Clearly Again: Understanding Cataract Surgery and What to Expect shouldn’t be a mystery. It is a simple, safe, and effective way to restore your vision. Don’t let Motibindu darken your world.
With advanced Phaco procedure and premium lens options available at Clairevision Eye Hospital in India, clear vision is just an appointment away. Trust your eyes with Dr. Archana Singh, a doctor who cares for your vision like her own.
Ready to see clearly again? Book your appointment today at Clairevision Eye Hospital (Wakad & Punawale). Call us +91-91561 70951 / +91 89994 68767 or visit our website to know more about our Cataract Surgery Packages.