What is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a surgical procedure to remove the cloudy lens from your eye and replace it with a clear artificial lens, the intraocular lens or IOL. The surgery is a common and effective procedure to restore clear vision for those affected by cataract, a condition where the eye’s natural lens becomes opaque. The surgery is typically quick, safe, and can significantly improve the quality of life.
What are the Different Types of Cataract Surgeries?
The most common methods to remove cataract surgery include small-incision cataract surgery (SICS), Microincision cataract surgery (MICS), extracapsular surgery and Femto laser assisted cataract surgery (FLACS). Phacoemulsification is a preferred technique to emulsify the cataract in MICS or FLACS Advancements in technology have introduced laser cataract surgery as a precise alternative.
Micro Incision Cataract Surgery (MICS)
This is the most common method (Approx 2 mm ), where a tiny incision is made, and ultrasound waves break up the cloudy lens (phacoemulsification). The fragments are gently suctioned out, and a new artificial lens is implanted. It is minimally invasive and usually offers a quick recovery. MICS, along with advanced lenses, is the best method to achieve good vision post-cataract surgery.
Extracapsular cataract surgery is a traditional method where the surgeon removes the lens in one large piece through a bigger incision, typically about 10 to 12 millimetres. This method is often reserved for cases where the cataract is too advanced or hard to break up by ultrasound (Phacoemulsification).
While this technique requires stitches and has a longer recovery time compared to phacoemulsification, it remains an important option in certain complex situations.
Laser cataract surgery is an advanced variation of MICS. Instead of using manual instruments, a femtosecond laser assists in making precise incisions, softening the cataract, and correcting astigmatism if needed. This technique may reduce the risk of complications and improve the accuracy of lens placement.
When Should You Consider Cataract Surgery?
Individuals should consider cataract surgery if they are experiencing vision problems that significantly affect everyday activities like reading, driving, or working. A thorough eye exam by an ophthalmologist can help determine the need for cataract surgery. Many people delay surgery until vision worsens, but early intervention can significantly improve vision and quality of life.
Who Needs Cataract Surgery?
Cataracts are a natural part of ageing, and while many people will eventually develop them, not everyone will need cataract surgery. The need for surgery is determined based on how much the cataracts affect your vision and quality of life.
People with Blurred or Clouded Vision
One of the most common signs of cataracts is blurred or cloudy vision. If you're experiencing difficulty with vision, especially in low-light conditions, or if your vision seems hazy or dim, it could be time to consider cataract surgery. For many, this becomes a major issue when it interferes with daily activities like reading, driving, or working.
People Struggling with Night Vision
Cataracts can make it difficult to see clearly at night or in low-light environments. If you notice a significant increase in glare or halos around lights, it may be a sign that cataracts are affecting your night vision. This can make tasks like night driving challenging and unsafe.
People with Reduced Colour Perception
Cataracts can also cause colours to appear faded or yellowed. If you're noticing that your surroundings look duller or less vibrant than they once did, it may be because of cataracts. This decrease in colour contrast can make it harder to perform activities that require fine detail, like reading or recognising faces.
People Whose Daily Life Is Affected by Cataracts
When cataracts start to interfere with your ability to enjoy life and perform everyday tasks, like cooking, watching TV, or driving, surgery may be the most effective solution to restore normal vision. Cataract surgery is designed to provide clearer vision, helping you return to normal activities without struggle.
People with Complicated Cataract Cases
Some individuals may have advanced cataracts that are difficult to manage with corrective lenses, or cataracts that have progressed to the point where they cannot be removed using traditional methods like phacoemulsification. In these cases, surgery may become necessary to prevent further vision loss or complications.
Younger Patients with Cataracts
While cataracts are most common in older adults, younger people can also develop them due to certain factors such as eye trauma, diabetes, prolonged use of steroid medications, or genetic predisposition. In these cases, cataract surgery may be necessary even for individuals under 50.
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When Should I Consult the Ophthalmologist For Surgery?
Consult the ophthalmologist if you experience symptoms such as blurred or cloudy vision, glare sensitivity, poor night vision, or double vision in one eye. Early consultation ensures timely intervention before cataracts severely impact your lifestyle.
How To Prepare for Cataract Surgery?
Proper preparation is key to ensuring a smooth cataract surgery experience and a speedy recovery. Follow the doctor’s instructions carefully to achieve the best possible results. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the cataract surgery:
Schedule a Comprehensive Eye Exam
Before scheduling cataract surgery, the eye doctor conducts a thorough eye exam to assess the extent of the cataracts and check for other underlying eye conditions. This helps determine the right type of surgery and intraocular lens selection for the patients. The ophthalmologist also measures the shape and size of the eye to ensure the new lens fits perfectly. During the exam, be sure to discuss the specific needs with your surgeon. Typically, biometry and OCT tests are done to check eye health.
Discuss Medications with Your Doctor
Inform the doctor about any ongoing prescription medications, over-the-counter drugs, or supplements. Some medications, such as blood thinners or anti-inflammatory drugs, may need to be adjusted or temporarily stopped before the procedure. This reduces the risk of bleeding or other complications during the procedure.
If you have any concerns about cataract surgery cost or specific treatment options like laser cataract surgery, get in touch with us to book an appointment with some of the best eye specialists in Gurgaon.
Avoid Eating or Drinking Before Surgery
Most cataract surgeries do not require any anaesthesia, but you might be asked to avoid eating or drinking for at least 6–8 hours before surgery, particularly if the procedure involves sedation. Your doctor will provide specific instructions on this, and it’s crucial to follow them to prevent any complications with the anaesthesia.
Wear Comfortable Clothing on the Day of Surgery
On the day of the procedure, wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. The patients may be asked to wear a surgical gown for the surgery, but wearing something simple and easy to remove will help them feel more at ease. Stop wearing makeup, lotions, or perfumes on the day of surgery.
These products can introduce bacteria into the surgical area. Avoid any eye makeup or contact lenses the day before surgery.
Arrange for Someone to Drive You Home
Cataract surgery is usually performed as an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home the same day. For your safety, arrange for a family member or friend to drive you home after the surgery.
What Happens During Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a highly effective procedure designed to improve vision by removing the cloudy natural lens from the eye and replacing it with a clear artificial lens. The procedure is typically quick and minimally invasive, and it’s usually done on a daycare basis, which means the patient can go home the same day. Here’s what to expect during the surgery:
Preparation and Anaesthesia
Before the cataract surgery procedure, the surgeon will numb the eyes using eye drops or a local injection. This ensures a smooth surgery experience during the procedure, but the patient is awake throughout the surgery.
The doctor uses special drops to dilate (widen) the pupils. This makes it easier for the surgeon to access the cataractous lens and perform the surgery. The vision may be blurry afterwards, so it’s important to arrange for someone to drive home. The doctor may give antibiotic eye drops or ointment before the procedure to reduce the risk of infection.
During the Surgery: Procedure
Cataract surgery typically takes 15–30 minutes, depending on several factors such as severity of the condition, medical health of the patient, and expertise of the surgeon. Here is what you can expect during the cataract surgery:
The surgeon begins by making a small incision (about 2–3 millimetres) in the cornea (the clear outer layer of the eye). In the case of laser cataract surgery, a femtosecond laser is used to create precise incisions instead of manual tools, offering increased precision.
Once the incision is made, the surgeon uses an ultrasound device (in the case of traditional phacoemulsification) to break up the cloudy cataract lens into smaller pieces. These pieces are gently suctioned out through the same small incision. This step is what makes microincision cataract surgery so popular: it’s minimally invasive, requiring only a tiny incision and no stitches.
For more advanced cases or patients with particularly hard cataracts, the surgeon may choose to perform extracapsular surgery, where the lens is removed in one piece rather than being broken up.
Implanting the Intraocular Lens (IOL)
After the cataract is removed, an artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted to replace the natural lens. The IOL is designed to fit perfectly in the space left by the old lens and to provide clear vision. Depending on the preferences and needs, the surgeon may recommend a premium IOL (e.g., toric lenses for astigmatism or multifocal lenses for reading and distance vision).
In case of laser cataract surgery, the laser may also be used to assist with the placement of the IOL, ensuring a highly precise fit.
In most cases, no stitches are required for closing the incision, as it is so small that it seals on its own. However, if stitches are necessary, they will be very fine and removed at a later date.
What to Expect After Cataract Surgery?
Once the procedure is complete, the patient is taken to the recovery area for observation. The entire process usually lasts for less than 30 minutes, and the patient can go home on the same day of the surgery.
Precautions after cataract surgery include avoiding strenuous activity, protecting your eyes from dust and water, and using prescribed eye drops. Follow the surgeon’s advice carefully for a smooth and faster recovery. Here’s what the patient can expect after the procedure:
The patient may be given a protective shield or patch to wear over your eye for a short period. This helps protect the eye from accidental rubbing and minimises the risk of infection.
The eye doctor will prescribe eye drops, including antibiotics to prevent infection and anti-inflammatory drops to reduce swelling. Be sure to follow the prescribed dosage and frequency exactly.
It’s normal to feel mild discomfort, dryness, or a gritty sensation in the eye for the first 24 to 48 hours. The patient may also notice some blurred vision initially, which should improve in the following days.
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What are the Benefits of Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is one of the most successful and commonly performed procedures for improved vision. Beyond simply restoring vision, it can dramatically improve a patient’s independence, safety, and overall quality of life. Here are some benefits of cataract surgery:
The primary benefit of cataract eye surgery is the restoration of vision. Cataracts cloud the natural lens, causing blurry, dim, or distorted sight. Once removed and replaced with a clear IOL, many patients report seeing colours more vividly and enjoying a sharper visual experience.
Many daily activities like reading, driving, watching TV, and using a computer become difficult or frustrating with cataracts. Cataract surgery restores your ability to enjoy these tasks without visual limitations, giving you more freedom and independence.
Reduces Dependency on Glasses
With advancements in cataract surgery lenses, including multifocal and toric options, many patients experience reduced dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Some individuals, especially those choosing laser cataract surgery, may enjoy clear vision at both near and far distances after the procedure.
Modern cataract surgery procedures, particularly phacoemulsification and laser eye surgery for cataracts, are minimally invasive, quick, and performed under local anaesthesia. With a high success rate and low complication risks, most patients are in and out of the clinic within a few hours.
Enhances Night Vision and Reduces Glare
Cataracts can cause halos, glare, and poor night vision, making nighttime driving dangerous. After cataract surgery, these issues are significantly reduced or eliminated, allowing for safer, more confident driving and better vision in low-light environments.
Reduces Risk of Falls and Injuries
Poor vision is a major risk factor for falls, especially in older adults. By restoring vision, cataract surgery can help reduce this risk, leading to better overall health and fewer accidents at home or in public spaces.
Cataract surgery is typically a one-time procedure. Once the artificial lens is implanted, it doesn’t degrade or develop cataracts again. Some patients may develop a condition called posterior capsule opacification (PCO) later, but it can be quickly treated with a painless, quick laser procedure.
Are there Potential Cataract Surgery Complications?
While cataract surgery is safe, there can be cataract surgery complications such as infection, swelling, or retinal detachment in rare cases. Common cataract surgery side effects include mild irritation or temporary blurred vision. Discuss risks thoroughly with your surgeon to understand what the disadvantages of cataract surgery are and how to minimise them.
Choose Artemis Hospitals for Cataract Surgery by Top Ophthalmologists in Gurgaon
Artemis Hospitals is committed to delivering world-class eye care with compassion, precision, and advanced technology. Whether you're considering traditional techniques or MICS, Artemis Hospitals offer advanced techniques and modern medical equipment for effective cataract surgery in Gurgaon.
Our cutting-edge facilities include both diagnostic and therapeutic modalities. Latest Phacoemulsification machine and the widest range of Intra-ocular lenses (mono-focal, Multi-focal, EDOF’s, Toric), which ensures a world-class treatment for cataract and most of the other ophthalmic diseases.
Services / Treatments Offered
Reviewed By Dr. Vishal Arora
Head - Ophthalmology
Artemis Hospitals
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Who is the best eye doctor near me for cataract surgery?
Artemis Hospitals has some of the best ophthalmologists with extensive experience in accurately diagnosing and treating vision disorders. The hospital is equipped with advanced modalities, which are operated by some of the most experienced eye surgeons in Gurgaon, India. Contact us to book an appointment with some of the best eye doctors.
How painful is cataract surgery?
Most patients feel little to no pain during the surgery, thanks to local anaesthesia.
How do I decide if it’s time for cataract surgery?
If your vision affects your daily activities, it’s time to consult an eye specialist.
How common is cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is one of the most common and safest surgeries worldwide.
How long does cataract surgery take?
The procedure usually takes 15 to 30 minutes, depending on several factors like the surgical expertise of the ophthalmologist, the number of eyes, age, the severity of the condition, etc.
How successful is cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery has a high success rate, with over 95% of patients achieving improved vision. However, the success rate depends on the age, severity, and medical expertise of the surgeon.
At what age do most people need cataract surgery?
Most people usually need cataract surgery typically after the age of 50, but some may need it earlier due to other conditions.
Will I be awake during cataract surgery?
Yes, patients are awake throughout the procedure, but they are given local anaesthesia to ensure they feel no pain.
Can cataracts come back after surgery?
No, cataracts don’t usually come back, but a condition called "secondary cataract" can occur, which is treatable.
What is the difference between traditional and laser-assisted cataract surgery?
Laser-assisted surgery uses advanced imaging and laser precision, offering more accuracy.
Which type of lens implant is best for me?
Your eye doctor will recommend the best lens based on your lifestyle and vision needs.
Are there any restrictions after cataract surgery?
Yes, there are several restrictions after the cataract surgery, such as rubbing your eyes and dusty environments for a few weeks. Keep in touch with the doctor for a smooth recovery and follow post-operative tips.
When can I drive or return to work after the cataract surgery?
Most people resume driving and work within a few days, however, it is always advised to consult the eye doctor before resuming any strenuous activity.
Will I still need glasses after cataract surgery?
You may or may not need glasses after cataract surgery, depending on the type of intraocular lens (IOL) implanted. Premium lenses like multifocal or toric IOLs can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses, while standard lenses may still require you to use them for reading or distance vision.
