What is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is one of the most common surgical procedures performed in the world today. Cataract surgery involves the removal of the cloudy crystalline lens from the eye. Surgery is considered when cataracts begin to cause symptoms that interfere with daily activities.
Eye Surgeons of Indiana specializes in modern cataract surgery using a no-shot, no-stitch, no-patch technique. A tiny, self-sealing incision is made into the cornea at the front of the eye. An advanced technique called phacoemulsification, which utilizes ultrasound technology, is used to remove the cataract. The natural lens shell, or capsule, is left behind. Finally, an artificial lens known as an intraocular lens implant (IOL) is placed in this capsule to restore focusing power within the eye. The entire procedure takes approximately 10-15 minutes.
Patients typically experience a rapid improvement in vision shortly after surgery, without pain or restrictions in activity. Numerous studies have shown that cataract surgery can greatly improve quality of life and make common tasks, such as reading and driving, much easier and safer. According to a survey conducted by the American Society of Cataract and Refractive Surgery (ASCRS), more than 98% of cataract patients have improved vision after surgery.
Lens Implant Options
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In addition to improved vision, one of the major benefits of modern cataract surgery is the ability for patients to become less dependent on glasses or contact lenses. Patients may choose to have a specialized or "premium" IOL implanted at the time of their surgery. The two major types of premium lenses currently available are multifocal IOLs and toric IOLs. In many cases, multifocal IOLs nearly eliminate the need for glasses after surgery, even for reading. Toric IOLs are used to reduce or eliminate astigmatism. Eye Surgeons of Indiana specializes in using premium IOLs to maximize visual improvement after cataract surgery.
While multifocal and toric IOL's are an excellent choice for many patients, the most common type of lens implant used is a monofocal or "traditional" IOL. These implants are designed to focus light at one point. Our surgeons routinely recommend that a newer type of monofocal IOL, the Tecnis® Aspheric, be used during surgery. In the majority of cases, a lens power is chosen so that the patient will see relatively well at distance after surgery without glasses. However, glasses or contact lenses are typically prescribed a few weeks after surgery for reading and to fine-tune distance vision. In some patients, a monofocal IOL may be focused for near instead of distance. Medicare and private insurance companies will cover the cost of cataract surgery and monofocal IOL, including the Tecnis® Aspheric.
Multifocal and toric IOLs are more expensive to produce, and this expense is not covered by Medicare or private insurance companies. Medicare and insurance companies will still cover the cost of the surgery itself.
Preparing for Cataract Surgery
A comprehensive evaluation by the doctors and staff at Eye Surgeons of Indiana is completed prior to cataract surgery. This includes a number of tests to determine whether cataracts are significantly affecting vision. Other conditions affecting vision are identified and treated as well. A thorough discussion about the need for surgery and the type of IOL to be used is completed prior to scheduling the procedure. If both eyes require surgery, they are scheduled one eye at a time, typically a week or two apart. Most surgeries at Eye Surgeons of Indiana are performed at Surgical Care Center, an ultra-modern facility designed specifically for cataract surgery. A courtesy shuttle providing door-to-door service to Surgical Care Center is available at no additional cost.
What to Expect During Surgery
Advanced surgical techniques used at Eye Surgeons of Indiana allow a fast, pain-free experience for most patients. An intravenous (IV) sedative is given for comfort throughout the procedure. In most cases, eyedrops are the only form of anesthesia necessary. Most surgeries take only 10-15 minutes, although patients typically are at Surgical Care Center for approximately 2 hours the day of surgery.
Recovery After Surgery
A rapid recovery of vision is expected in most patients after cataract surgery. Driving is restricted until the first post-operative office visit is completed (typically the day after surgery). Strenuous activities are not recommended the day of the procedure. However, most regular daily activities, such as reading, exercise, and work-related activities, are OK beginning the day after surgery. In most cases, prescription eye drops are used for about a month after surgery.
Long Term Results
Cataract surgery is permanent, and IOLs are designed to last a lifetime. While cataracts never return, approximately 30% of patients will develop some clouding of the capsule months to years after surgery. If this begins to affect vision, a simple, painless laser treatment (YAG posterior capsulotomy) can be performed which permanently corrects this. An annual eye examination, usually performed by the referring eye doctor, is recommended after cataract surgery.
