Cataract surgery is one of the most common surgeries performed in our hospital. Cataracts, although can be the cause of vision loss, will only be gone with a one-day procedure. Many of you are wondering what to expect after surgery and how you will look. Our dear patient Rozalija K. Vasilevska says: “After the operation I feel like I suddenly start watching HD movies in all colors from a black and white movie.” Rosalija solved the cataract problem by installing a monofocal intraocular lens and now enjoys the beauties of nature and performs regular work responsibilities without any problems.
To solve all your dilemmas, read this short guide to postoperative recovery and what are the benefits of the whole process.
Postoperative care (recovery)
For the recovery after the operation to be as fast, successful and comfortable as possible, it is necessary for the patient to be disciplined and to follow all the instructions received from the ophthalmic surgeon.
During the first month, it is important to follow these guidelines:
- Regularly take the prescribed therapy, as explained by the medical staff;
- Do not touch, rub or press on the operated eye;
- During washing or bathing, be very careful not to get soap or shampoo in your eyes. To wipe the face, use a special towel to gently absorb water from the face;
- Heavier physical activities are strictly forbidden – lifting, pushing or pulling loads heavier than a few kilograms, straining, doing heavier household chores, etc .;
- Sports activities, such as swimming in a lake, river or pool, are prohibited;
- Avoid staying in dirty, dusty and smoky rooms, crowded public transport;
- Make-up is prohibited (especially the use of mascara);
- Take care not to injure the eye;
- The length of sick leave depends on your occupation, work responsibilities, and the speed of postoperative recovery.
If you experience pain, red eye, sudden loss of vision, flashes or shadows in front of your eyes, it is very important to call your ophthalmologist despite the scheduled check-ups.
Postoperative control examinations
The first check-up is the day after surgery. This examination controls the vision and condition of the eye, prescribes the appropriate drops as therapy that protect against infection and prevent further inflammation. Most patients already have an improvement in vision, although it is normal to feel discomfort in the operated eye, such as occasional tingling and scratching. The eye may be red and teary, you may have a feeling of fog, a halo, as well as blurred vision and double images. All these symptoms are normal and will gradually disappear. During this time, it is extremely important not to touch or rub the eye, to avoid strenuous effort, to use the prescribed therapy regularly and correctly, and to take care of eye hygiene.
After the second check-up, which is scheduled one week after surgery, you continue to use the drops, but the dose is gradually reduced. It is common for all the symptoms of discomfort to gradually disappear during this period. Every day you will notice that you see better and better until the next control.
At the third examination, which is one month after the operation, the visual acuity is checked and glasses are prescribed (if necessary – which depends on the implanted intraocular lens you have chosen, as is the case with a monofocal intraocular lens). During this period, the eye is considered to fully heal and good visual acuity is achieved.
The speed of recovery depends on several factors. Ultrasound cataract surgery is a small incision operation that allows for a much faster and more comfortable recovery than previous surgical methods.
Benefits after surgery
Improves the quality of life
Because cataracts develop slowly, you may have difficulty reading or driving at night for a period of time. You will gradually stop doing the activities you enjoy without knowing why. The presence of cataracts can even lead to depression or anxiety. Once you have removed it, you will be able to do your favorite activities again. Studies have shown that the quality of life of patients who underwent surgery increased by 36% after surgery.
Reduces the risk of falls or fractures
You do not see the stairs or the path you are walking on, the elements in the house, or you gradually lose your sight – these are the most common causes of falls, injuries or fractures. The fall can be dangerous and even fatal for the elderly. Studies have shown that patients over the age of 65 who have had cataract surgery have a 25% reduced risk of hip fractures.
Surgery can prolong your life
Long-term medical studies related to cataract surgery have shown that patients who underwent surgery had a 40% reduction in mortality risk compared to those who did not undergo surgery. This is related to the previous two, because you see well, function more easily, feel confident and have more self-confidence.
In our hospital this is a routine and short procedure, which is completely painless and safe for the patient. Our ophthalmologists recommend surgery as soon as possible. Therefore, do not delay, make a preoperative examination for cataracts if you suspect its existence and you will discuss possible solutions with the ophthalmologist. We work with the most modern types of intraocular lenses, which are designed for each patient separately and finally, you will get the type of life you want!
Smile and get rid of cataracts forever!