Just like the rest of the body, your eyes will start to show signs of aging as you get older. If you allow your eyes to deteriorate for too long, then you will likely be forced to live with severe vision loss. Cataracts are among the most common causes of vision loss as you get older. Since the vision issues caused by cataracts will only get worse over time, you will want to instantly improve your quality of life by undergoing cataract surgery.
A cataract is a medical condition that causes the lens of the eye to become cloudy. Since you are forced to look through a cloud to see, you will suffer from blurred vision when dealing with a cataract. This condition will not go away on its own, so you will only be able to restore your vision by undergoing surgery to remove the cataract from your eye.
You will first have a consultation appointment before being approved for cataract surgery. Dr. Patel will perform several tests to determine the shape and size of your eye. This will let her have a lens implant ready before the surgery. You may also be given prescription eye drops to help reduce swelling prior to the procedure. If you are a strong candidate for cataract surgery, then you will return at a later date to undergo the procedure.
Anesthetic eye drops will be used to numb your eye before starting the surgery. You will remain awake throughout the entire procedure, but you will be unable to see the doctor operating on your eye. The procedure involves using a small instrument to break up and remove the cataract. A lens implant will then be placed on the eye.
Once the cataract surgery is complete, you will soon be able to go home. Since you just underwent eye surgery, you will need someone to drive you home. A protective shield will likely be placed over your eye to help protect it from infection during the healing process. While this shield can be removed during the day, you will have to sleep with it on your eye every night to encourage proper healing.
Cataract surgery is an extremely safe procedure with almost no side effects. After your procedure is complete, eye drops may be prescribed to help prevent infection and reduce swelling. It is vitally important that you avoid rubbing your eye while it is healing. After you have completely healed from your cataract surgery, you will be able to enjoy clear vision again.
If you are dealing with poor, cloudy vision due to cataracts, our skilled, board-certified ophthalmologist can help you decide if cataract surgery is right for you at Wichita Vision Institute. Contact our office in Wichita today to schedule your consultation.