If your vision has diminished lately and you've been told you have cataracts, you might be considering undergoing surgery. If your ophthalmologist has recommended cataract surgery, the surgery can certainly fix some of the common problems related to having cataracts. However, you might wonder if cataract surgery will correct your vision. Here is an overview that can answer this question and more.
Does Cataract Surgery Correct Vision?
Cataracts are a condition that causes the lens of the eyes to become cloudy, resulting in blurred and troubled vision. Total vision loss can occur in advanced cases. Cataracts can make it difficult to see properly while driving, especially at night when the glare from lights can make it especially difficult to see. Cataract surgery involves the replacement of the diseased lens with an artificial one. This will dramatically improve vision, enabling you to see better during the day and at night when lights can become problematic. Some people notice an improvement in their vision as soon as a few hours following surgery, although others don't notice improvement until a couple of days later.
While cataract surgery corrects the vision in a majority of patients, there are a few patients who require a second surgery, as a second cataract can sometimes form a complication. However, after the second surgery, most patients have good results.
What Does Cataract Surgery Entail?
Your eye doctor will perform the necessary tests prior to the surgery, such as an ultrasound, which is usually done approximately a week prior to surgery. The ultrasound helps the eye doctor to determine the best type of artificial lens to use. On the day of the surgery, you will be awake but your eyes will be adequately numbed. If you are nervous, your eye doctor can administer a sedative to help you relax. The eye doctor will then remove the diseased lens from your eyes and replace them with artificial lenses. This is an outpatient surgery with minimal risks, and you won't have to worry about staying in the hospital overnight.
What to Expect From Recovery From Cataract Surgery
You can expect to experience some itching and minor discomfort following cataract surgery. You might find that colors appear brighter in the beginning since you won't be used to seeing them so clearly. Your doctor may recommend that you wear an eye patch or some other form of protective gear immediately following surgery, and for up to a few days after. You may also be prescribed eye drops and other medications to ward off any possible infection. Any discomfort from the surgery should improve after a few days, but complete healing may take up to eight weeks.
So, if you've been ignoring your eye health, or you believe you could benefit from cataract surgery and you're in the Boise, Idaho area, give us a call to schedule a thorough eye exam with one of our experienced eye doctors today. After our doctor has examined your eyes, an appropriate treatment plan will be developed and you will be well on your way to improving your overall eye health, including your ability to see clearly.