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Modern Çok Katlı Binalar

CATARACT SURGERY IN HEALTIFY TURKEY

Cataract Before and After

CATARACT SURGERY

Cataract surgery is a common and highly successful procedure aimed at treating cataracts, a condition where the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, leading to blurry vision and potentially even blindness if left untreated. Cataracts often develop as part of the natural aging process, but they can also be caused by trauma, certain medications, or other eye conditions. Cataract surgery is the most effective treatment to restore clear vision and improve the quality of life for individuals suffering from cataracts.

Cataract surgery involves removing the cloudy lens from the eye and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL), which restores normal vision. It is one of the safest and most commonly performed surgeries worldwide, with a high success rate and relatively quick recovery.

How Cataract Surgery Works:

  • Preparation: The patient is given eye drops to numb the eye and dilate the pupil, making it easier for the surgeon to remove the cataract. In most cases, the patient is awake during the procedure, although some patients may receive a mild sedative to help them relax.

  • Incision and Accessing the Cataract: The surgeon makes a small incision (usually about 2-3 millimeters) at the edge of the cornea to access the cataract inside the eye. This incision is typically self-sealing, meaning it does not require stitches.

  • Breaking Up the Cataract: The cloudy lens is softened and broken up using a process called phacoemulsification. This involves using ultrasonic waves to fragment the cataract, making it easier to remove. In some cases, a laser may be used to assist with breaking up the lens.

  • Removing the Cataract: The broken pieces of the cataract are carefully suctioned out of the eye through the small incision.

  • Replacing the Lens: Once the cataract is removed, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted in place of the natural lens. The IOL is made of a clear, biocompatible material, and it helps focus light onto the retina to restore clear vision. IOLs come in various types, including monofocal, multifocal, and toric lenses, depending on the patient’s vision needs.

  • Closing the Incision: The incision is usually small enough that it does not require stitches to close, and it naturally heals on its own. The procedure typically lasts about 15 to 30 minutes, and most patients can go home the same day.

Types of Intraocular Lenses (IOLs):

Monofocal IOLs:

  • These lenses provide clear vision at one fixed distance, either near, intermediate, or far. Patients who receive monofocal lenses will typically need glasses for certain activities, such as reading or driving, depending on the IOL’s focal point.

Multifocal IOLs:

  • These lenses offer multiple focal points, allowing patients to see clearly at different distances without the need for glasses. They are often a preferred choice for patients who want to minimize their reliance on glasses for activities like reading and driving.

Toric IOLs:

  • Designed for patients with astigmatism, toric IOLs correct the uneven curvature of the cornea to improve overall vision. They can be combined with monofocal or multifocal lenses to address both cataracts and astigmatism simultaneously.

Accommodating IOLs:

  • These lenses are designed to shift their position inside the eye, providing clearer vision at various distances. They are often used to reduce the need for reading glasses in patients with presbyopia (age-related near vision loss).

Extended Depth of Focus (EDOF) IOLs:

  • These lenses offer a continuous range of vision from near to far, reducing the need for glasses in most situations. EDOF lenses are ideal for patients who want better overall vision without the drawbacks of traditional multifocal lenses.

Eligibility for Cataract Surgery:

Most people with cataracts are eligible for cataract surgery when the condition begins to interfere with their daily activities, such as reading, driving, or working. The decision to undergo surgery is usually based on the severity of the cataracts and the impact on the patient’s vision.

Patients with other eye conditions, such as glaucoma or macular degeneration, can also have cataract surgery, but additional considerations may need to be taken into account.

In general, patients should meet the following criteria:

  • Age: There is no specific age requirement for cataract surgery. The condition typically affects individuals over the age of 60, but it can develop earlier in life due to various factors.

  • Impact on Quality of Life: Surgery is usually recommended when cataracts cause significant vision impairment that affects daily tasks.

  • Overall Eye Health: Cataract surgery may be suitable for individuals with other eye health conditions, but a thorough examination is necessary to determine the best course of action.

Benefits of Cataract Surgery:

  • Restoration of Clear Vision: The primary benefit of cataract surgery is the restoration of clear vision, allowing patients to resume daily activities and improve their overall quality of life.

  • Quick Recovery: Most patients experience significant improvement in vision within a few days of surgery, and many can resume normal activities within a week.

  • Minimal Pain and Discomfort: Cataract surgery is minimally invasive, and most patients experience little to no pain during or after the procedure. Mild discomfort or irritation may occur in the first few days of recovery.

  • Improved Safety: Cataract surgery helps reduce the risk of accidents related to poor vision, such as falls or car accidents, which are common among individuals with untreated cataracts.

  • Potential for Reduced Dependence on Glasses: With the right choice of intraocular lens (IOL), cataract surgery can reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses, especially for distance vision.

Recovery After Cataract Surgery:

Cataract surgery is generally well-tolerated, and the recovery process is relatively quick. However, patients should follow their surgeon’s aftercare instructions to ensure the best outcome:

  • Post-Operative Care: Patients will be prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. It’s important to use these drops as instructed and attend follow-up appointments to monitor healing.

  • Activity Restrictions: Patients are advised to avoid strenuous activities, heavy lifting, and activities that could put strain on the eye for a few weeks after surgery. It's also important to avoid getting soap, water, or other irritants in the eye during the early stages of recovery.

  • Vision Changes: Vision may be blurry or fluctuating immediately after surgery. However, most patients notice significant improvement within the first few days to weeks as the eye heals.

  • Follow-Up Appointments: Regular follow-up visits will be scheduled to ensure that the eye is healing properly and that no complications are developing.

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