Cataract is an eye disease that manifests itself as clouding of the lens of the eye, which usually occurs as a natural result of aging. If left untreated, it can seriously reduce the quality of vision. We have compiled the most frequently asked questions and answers about cataracts and the treatment process for you.
1. What is a cataract and how does it form?
Cataract is a condition in which the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy. It usually occurs due to aging, but diabetes, eye injuries and certain medications can also lead to cataract formation. In this case, vision gradually deteriorates and daily activities become difficult over time.
2. What are the symptoms of cataracts?
The main symptoms of cataracts are:
- Blurred or hazy vision,
- Sensitivity to light,
- Difficulty in night vision,
- Fading or yellowing of colors,
- Double vision or shadow vision.
These symptoms may increase over time and make daily life difficult.
3. How is Cataract Treated?
The definitive treatment for cataracts is surgery. In cataract surgery, the clouded lens is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). In this way, the patient’s vision becomes clear. Surgery is generally considered a safe and effective procedure.
4. Who Can Have Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is performed on patients whose vision loss affects daily life. Although it is usually performed on older individuals, anyone affected by cataracts can have this surgery. Each patient is evaluated individually and the necessity of surgery is determined.
5. Is Pain Felt During Cataract Surgery?
During cataract surgery, local anesthesia is administered with eye drops. In this way, the patient does not feel any pain or discomfort. Postoperative pain is minimal and usually goes away within a few days.
6. How Long Does Cataract Surgery Take?
The surgery itself usually takes 15-20 minutes. However, with the preparation and recovery process, you can spend 1-2 hours in the hospital or clinic.
7. Does Vision Improve Immediately After Cataract Surgery?
Vision after surgery usually begins to improve within a few days. However, it may take several weeks for full recovery and clear vision. As vision improves, it becomes clearer and colors become more vibrant.
8. What are the Risks of Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is generally safe, but as with any surgical procedure, it carries some risks. Risks such as infection, bleeding, and retinal detachment are possible, although low. Therefore, it is important to follow the hygiene and doctor’s instructions after surgery.
9. What Should Be Considered After Cataract Surgery?
After the surgery, you should not rub your eyes, pay attention to hygiene and avoid heavy lifting. In addition, the drops recommended by the doctor should be used regularly and check-ups should not be neglected.
10. What are Artificial Lenses (Smart Lens)?
Intraocular lenses used in cataract surgery have different features. Trifocal lenses, known as smart lenses, reduce or completely eliminate the need for glasses by providing clear vision at far, intermediate and near distances. These lenses are especially preferred by patients who want to improve their quality of life.
11. Does Cataract Recur?
Cataracts do not occur again due to the surgically removed lens. However, in rare cases, opacification may occur behind the artificial lens. This situation can be resolved with a laser treatment performed in a short time.
12. At What Age Can Cataract Surgery Be Performed?
There is no specific age limit for cataract surgery. Individuals of all ages can have this surgery if vision loss affects their quality of life. It is generally more common in people aged 60 and over during the aging process.
13. Can a solution be found for myopia and hyperopia with cataract treatment?
Yes, visual impairments such as myopia, hyperopia or astigmatism can also be corrected thanks to the intraocular lenses used during cataract surgery. Especially thanks to multifocal and trifocal lenses, the patient can get rid of these problems as well as cataracts.
14. Is it necessary to use glasses after cataract surgery?
If a standard lens was inserted during surgery, glasses for near or distance vision may be required. However, when smart lenses are used, the need for glasses is largely eliminated.
15. In Which Situations Is Cataract Surgery Necessary?
Surgery is recommended when cataracts reduce quality of life and interfere with daily activities. For example, cataract surgery should be considered when activities such as driving, reading, or watching television become difficult.
In this blog post, we answered the most frequently asked questions about cataract treatment and ensured that potential patients received accurate information. You can contact our clinic for the most accurate diagnosis, diagnosis and treatments for your eye treatments.
Eye Health and Diseases Specialist Lasik/Laser Eye Surgeon Op. Dr. Ömer TAKEŞ
Eye Health and Diseases Specialist Lasik/Laser Eye Surgeon Op. Dr. Ömer TAKEŞ, at the Private Eye Health, Diseases and Surgery Practice in Alsancak, Izmir; Cataract, Smart Lens; Trifocal Lens, Laser Surgeries; It serves its patients in Femto-Lasik, Relex Smile, PRK, Lasek, No Touch-Laser, ICL Surgery, Pterygium Surgery, Vitreoretinal Surgery and Eyelid Aesthetics.
Eye Health and Diseases Specialist Op. Dr. Ömer Takeş Eye Clinic offers treatment to patients coming from many cities in the Aegean region, especially Izmir, due to its central location in Alsancak, the apple of the eye of Izmir. In addition, within the scope of health tourism, it provides services to its patients coming from abroad within the scope of both eye treatments and health tourism services.
Op. Dr. Ömer Takeş has more than 50 national and international publications, proceedings and clinical studies. Op. Dr. Ömer Takeş Eye Clinic provides patient satisfaction-oriented service by prioritizing patient health.