Surgeries and procedures
Book a Consultation:
Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is an ophthalmologic procedure designed to treat clouding of the lens of the eye. Cataracts are a common age-related condition that causes blurred or cloudy vision due to protein buildup in the lens, which prevents the proper passage of light. If left untreated, cataracts can lead to vision loss.
What does the procedure consist of?
The procedure usually involves removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens. This new lens helps restore clarity of vision. The surgery is performed on an outpatient basis, under local anesthesia and is minimally invasive. The most common technique is phacoemulsification, in which ultrasound is used to fragment the cataract and remove it before the new lens is placed. Recovery is rapid, with most patients experiencing a marked improvement in vision within a few days.
Benefits of Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery offers a significant improvement in vision, eliminating the opacity of the crystalline lens, allowing you to see with greater clarity and sharpness. It also reduces glare and improves night vision, which facilitates activities such as driving at night. In addition, colors are perceived more vivid and brighter, improving the overall visual experience.
Cataract surgery recovery
Recovery from cataract surgery is quick and easy; it is normal to feel mild irritation or blurred vision in the first few days, but most patients notice improvement in a few hours or days. It is recommended to avoid activities that put pressure on the eye, such as lifting heavy objects or swimming, for at least a week, and to use the prescribed eye drops to prevent infection and promote healing. Most can resume normal activities within a few days, with continued improvement in vision during the first few weeks.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How long does the procedure take?
A cataract surgery procedure generally lasts between 15 and 30 minutes per eye, although this may vary depending on several factors, including the surgical technique used and the complexity of the case.
It is important to note that this time does not include the preparation period prior to surgery or the recovery time following the procedure.
What kind of postoperative care should I follow?
You should use antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops as indicated, avoid activities that may increase eye pressure, and protect the eye with sunglasses or a protective shield at night.
Is the surgery painful?
No, the surgery is not painful, as it is performed under local anesthesia. It is common to experience mild discomfort or a gritty sensation in the following days.
Is any follow-up after surgery necessary?
Yes, Dr. Claudia Acosta will be in contact with the patient to monitor recovery. The follow-up can be done through virtual appointments or consultations as required by the case, ensuring that the recovery is adequate.
How long after surgery can I travel?
In general, there are no drawbacks to flying after cataract surgery, since pressure changes do not affect the procedure. It is possible to fly after the first 24 to 48 hours, once the ophthalmologist confirms that the initial recovery has been adequate and there are no complications.
