Cataract surgery explained: Part 1
Cataract surgery is one of the most commonly performed and highly successful procedures in ophthalmology.
In part 1 of a series of articles on cataract surgery, Mr Venki Sundaram, leading consultant ophthalmologist, delves into the key aspects of cataract surgery, including its indications and lens replacement options.
What is a cataract?
A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens within the eye. Normally, the lens is clear and allows light to focus on the retina at the back of the eye. As a cataract develops, light is scattered, therefore affecting vision.
The most common cause of cataract development is increasing age, but other factors such as diabetes, steroid medication, injury, and inflammation can cause a cataract to develop earlier.
Common symptoms of cataracts include:
- blurry vison - e.g. watching TV, reading, seeing a golf ball, difficulty seeing road signs
- sensitivity to glare - e.g. during night driving or in bright sunshine
- double vision in one eye
- difficulty distinguishing colours or colours appearing dull
How are cataracts treated?
If your cataract is in its early stages and you are managing with your vision, then no treatment is required and perhaps updating your glasses prescription is sufficient. However, if your cataract is significantly impacting your vision and glasses can’t improve it, then surgery is the only option.
Cataract surgery is a highly successful and effective procedure that can quickly restore your vision, with results lasting a lifetime. Before surgery, it’s important to have a thorough assessment and discussion with an experienced ophthalmologist (eye surgeon) who can advise you on the best course of action for your individual needs.
What lens choices are there for cataract surgery?
During cataract surgery, your natural cloudy lens is replaced with a clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL) that will last a lifetime. There are various categories of IOLs, each with different characteristics and functions:
- Monofocal lens
These are the most traditional type of IOL, designed to focus at a specific point - usually allowing for excellent distance vision (e.g. driving). However, you will most certainly need to wear glasses for reading and possibly for computer screen use.
- Premium monofocal lens
These IOLs allow for a slightly greater range of vison, enabling some intermediate vison (e.g. for a computer screen or car dashboard) and larger near print vision, in addition to excellent distance vision. This is a good option for patients who would like to see their phones or tablets without glasses.
- Extended depth of focus (EDOF) lens
The shape of these IOLs allows for a more continuous range of vision, from distance to near. However, reading glasses may still be required for small print.
- Multifiocal lens
These IOLs have different zones (usually three) that focus at distance, intermediate, and near ranges. While they can provide very good vison at all ranges, some patients may experience glare/haloes with bright lights.
Typically, there is no right or wrong lens choice - it depends on your specific visual needs and preferences. However, it’s important to discuss your individual case with an ophthalmologist who has experience with the different IOLs, so they can advise you accordingly.
Head over to Part 2 to learn about the surgical process, potential risks, and postoperative care following cataract surgery.
Mr Sundaram is a highly skilled and experienced leading consultant ophthalmic surgeon who has performed thousands of cataract operations, restoring and improving the sight of many patients over the last 20+ years.
To book an appointment with Mr Sundaram, head on over to his Top Doctors profile today.