How does one see with cataracts ?
A cataract is an opacity that forms on the lens, a natural lens located behind the pupil of the eyeball.
Cataract surgery consists of replacing the opacified lens with an implant—an artificial intraocular lens (IOL)—which helps correct all visual impairments of the patient.
Discover in our article everything you need to know about this procedure, its benefits, and what to expect after the operation!
An artificial lens for cataract surgery, also known as an intraocular lens (IOL), is an optical device implanted in the eye during surgery to treat cataracts, a condition that leads to the clouding of the natural lens.
Cataracts can cause vision loss and symptoms such as halos around lights, difficulty seeing up close or at a distance, and progressive blindness if left untreated. Be attentive to the early signs of cataracts!
Artificial lenses are typically made from transparent, biocompatible materials that do not trigger inflammation. They are implanted in either the anterior or posterior chamber of the eye, depending on the type of surgery.
This procedure is generally performed by an ophthalmologist, such as Dr. Stéphanie Zwillinger. It is commonly done under local anesthesia and as an outpatient procedure.
During cataract surgery, the surgeon makes a small incision to remove the opacified lens.
This process involves using ultrasound waves to break up and extract the clouded lens.
Once this step is completed, the surgeon inserts the intraocular lens to restore clear vision.
Both eyes may require surgery, but each procedure is typically performed separately to allow the first operated eye to fully recover before addressing the second one.
Thanks to its curvature and optical characteristics, the intraocular implant replaces the affected lens.
These lenses can correct various visual conditions such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism.
They help adjust the refraction of light rays entering the eye, thereby optimizing visual acuity.
There are different types of intraocular lenses (IOLs), such as toric lenses for astigmatic patients or multifocal lenses to treat presbyopia.
This can also reduce or eliminate the need for glasses or contact lenses after the procedure.
The choice of lens depends on the patient’s specific visual needs, the type of cataract, and the overall health of the eye.
It is essential to discuss this matter with your ophthalmologist, in order to determine the most suitable implant based on your condition and desired outcomes.
Following surgery, patients often experience a rapid visual recovery, typically within a few days after the procedure.
We recommend attending post-operative consultations to monitor visual acuity and detect potential complications, such as capsular opacification, which may require additional treatment.
Anti-inflammatory and antibiotic eye drops are commonly prescribed to promote smooth healing and prevent complications.
Although common, this procedure carries certain risks.
Some patients may experience visual field disturbances or corneal discomfort in the post-operative period.
A secondary cataract may also develop after several months, requiring laser ophthalmic treatment.
In rare cases, infections or inflammations can occur following the implantation.
Contraindications mainly concern pre-existing ocular diseases or complications related to the aging of the natural lens.
Despite these risks, the surgery generally results in clear vision and significantly improves the patient’s quality of life.
Regular ophthalmologic follow-up remains essential after the procedure!
An artificial lens for cataract treatment plays a crucial role in restoring vision by replacing the damaged lens.
This surgical treatment corrects age-related vision problems while improving the quality of life for patients with cataracts.
Thanks to advancements in ophthalmology, patients can regain clear vision and enjoy an improved quality of life without the need for glasses. However, we remind you that regular monitoring by an ophthalmic surgeon is essential to prevent and manage any potential complications!
A cataract is an opacity that forms on the lens, a natural lens located behind the pupil of the eyeball.
Although the procedure is common and generally without complications, it is important to follow the steps of the postoperative period
In a new article for French weekly magazine Femme Actuelle, Dr Stéphanie Zwillinger talks about cataract surgery: is it mandatory
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