When cataracts are identified early, there is a possibility that the patient’s vision may be improved with eyeglasses or magnifying lenses. However, should the problem worsen or if the cataracts are identified too late, surgery is the only way of restoring vision. Cataract surgery is one of the most effective and safe surgery options available. Cataract surgery is also the most commonly performed operations in the US. The surgery process includes removing of cloudy portions of the lens and inserting an artificial lens.
There are two types of cataract surgery which are categorized by the method in which the cloudy lens portions are removed. Phacoemulsification, also known as phaco, involves in a tiny probe that emits ultrasound waves to break up the lens to be removed via suction. This is also known as “the small incision cataract surgery” and is the more common option. The other method, Extracapsular Surgery, requires a longer incision and the cloudy core of the core to be removed in one piece via suction.
Cataract surgery may slightly increase the risk of retinal detachment. Your risk may be increased even more if you have myopia and had a cataract surgery. Retinal detachment is identified with a sudden increase in floaters in your field of vision. This condition is a medical emergency and should be treated immediately once the signs are identified. Retinal displacement is painless and may go unnoticed until it is too late. Early treatment is recommended because the longer you wait, the higher your chances are of losing vision permanently.