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What are cataracts?
Cataract is a condition in which a clouding or opacity develops in the eye’s lens. This obscure lens is comprised of protein and water. Under normal conditions, the protein in the lens is bonded in a way that allows light to pass through it. However, when these bonds change and the protein molecules group together, the clumping of the molecules cloud the lens and prevent light from entering. The development of cataracts in the eye occurs with age.
What are the symptoms of cataracts?
The most common symptom of cataracts is the clouding of the eye. This development is painless and often progresses slowly. Other symptoms include seeing colors that appear faded, frequent changes in prescription eyeglasses or contacts, poor night vision, seeing a halo around bright lights and sensitivity to bright sunlight or headlight glare at night. The development of cataract in the eye cannot be corrected with glasses.
How are cataracts treated at BHMG?
If the condition of the cataract hinders an individual’s ability to perform daily activities, the cataract can be removed by phacoemulsification surgery. Nearly all patients who undergo cataract removal surgery experience improved vision afterward.
During phaecoemulsification, a small incision is made on the side of the cornea and a probe is inserted into the eye and the inner nucleus of the lens is extracted. The phacoemulsification machine has a metal probe that emits an ultrasound wave softening the cataract. A suction is then used to remove the debris.
The Experience of Pain-free Cataract Surgery
Nobody likes pain or discomfort, and our doctors are no exception. During their years in practice, they have made every effort to make cataract surgery a pleasant and pain-free experience for their patients. Thanks to advanced microsurgical techniques, the use of self-sealing incisions, and eye drop anesthesia, their goal has been achieved.
Preparation for Surgery
Once the diagnosis of cataracts has been made and it is decided to pursue cataract surgery, you will go through several steps to prepare you for the surgery. At Steen-Hall Eye Institute we place a great emphasis upon helping you understand your condition, how the planned surgery is intended to benefit you, and prepare you for your care during the post-operative recovery period.
In preparation for surgery, measurements are taken of the eye to allow the surgeon to select the power of artificial lens that will best serve your vision needs after surgery. Often patients enjoy reduced dependence upon glasses after cataract surgery.
Even though we have worked hard to make cataract surgery a pleasant and simple event for our patients, it is still an operation that requires certain health assessments. Before surgery, a routine blood test will be performed. Also, an EKG will be taken to document the condition of your heart. Depending upon your health status, an operative clearance may be needed from your medical doctor. Our team will help coordinate all of these steps for you.
The Surgical Experience
You will be contacted by our staff to give you the time to arrive at the Eye Surgery Center of the Steen-Hall Eye Institute on your day of surgery. Depending upon your health status, you will most likely be asked not to eat or drink after midnight in preparation for surgery. This is usually not a problem, because we schedule our surgeries in the morning, allowing you to be home for a late breakfast.
After your arrival at the Institute, your vital signs will be recorded and some eye drops placed in the eye. Some of these drops cause the pupil to dilate, making it easier for the surgeon to remove the cataract. Other drops guard against infection, while others may be used to numb the eye.
You will wear a hospital gown instead of a shirt or blouse; however, you can wear your own pants and shoes. To maintain our sterile environment in the operating room, you will wear a surgical bonnet and shoe covers.
Shortly before your operation, you will be escorted to the operating room. You will lie down on a comfortable chair. Monitors will be attached to your chest and a fingertip. A nurse will hold your hand, if you so desire, and make sure you are comfortable throughout the entire operation.
The doctor and his surgical team will guide you through the surgery. All you have to do is relax and look at the light on the microscope. The surgeon and his team will do the rest.
The actual operation usually lasts less than ten minutes. After a brief recovery period, you will rejoin your family or friends who were able to view your surgery "live" via a closed circuit system in the waiting room.
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