A cataract is the loss of transparency and opacification of the eye lens. As a result, visual clarity decreases and deteriorates. It can be age-related or hereditary. Cataracts, which predominantly occur due to aging, can also develop from birth, as a result of diabetes, or due to eye damage caused by trauma.
Common symptoms of cataracts include:
- Sensitivity to light
- Double vision
- Blurred vision
- Decreased night vision
- Difficulty reading
For early diagnosis and treatment of cataracts, you should immediately consult a specialist physician if symptoms are observed. The only treatment method for cataracts is surgery. There are several different surgical methods available. Which method will be preferred in your treatment can vary depending on many different factors. An eye health and diseases specialist, who is an expert in the field, will decide the most suitable treatment method for you.
One of the frequently performed methods in cataract surgery is cataract treatment with femtosecond laser, which has developed in recent years. Thanks to the use of laser in cataract surgeries, a safe and comfortable treatment opportunity is provided, and the risk of complications is minimized, allowing for the procedure to be performed confidently.
Femtosecond Laser Cataract Surgery
In femtosecond laser cataract surgery, the entry points into the eye can be opened with a laser, eliminating the need for the use of a scalpel. The laser replaces the scalpel in femtosecond laser procedures. The laser beam can easily focus on different depths of eye tissues, allowing the eye's entry point to be planned in a straight line under computer control. This positively affects visual clarity and consequently image quality. With the laser method that reduces the risk of edema and infection, the cataract lens is fragmented without damaging the surrounding tissues, and the eye can be best prepared for the artificial lens. Femtosecond laser surgery can be used not only in cataract treatment but also in the treatment of other refractive errors such as myopia, hypermetropia, and astigmatism.
Before the operation, anesthetic eye drops are instilled into the patient's eye. During this time, the eye is under anesthesia, so the patient does not feel any discomfort. The surgeon checks necessary values such as the angle and measurement of eye entry, which are determined during the pre-surgery examination and entered into the computer.
With computer-controlled femtosecond laser assistance, the required entry point is opened in a short time, and the cataract lens is fragmented. An artificial intraocular lens is placed into the eye, completing the procedure. After femtosecond laser surgery, there is usually no need to cover the eye. The patient may be provided with glasses to use on the day of the operation. The patient can return to normal life after the examination the next day.
How is Cataract Diagnosis Made?
Cataract diagnosis is usually made through a detailed eye examination. Patients generally consult an eye doctor with complaints such as blurred vision, decreased night vision, or sensitivity to light.
The specialist examines the eye lens using a special microscope called a biomicroscope to identify areas that have lost transparency. If necessary, a detailed evaluation is carried out using advanced imaging techniques. If diagnosed early, a treatment plan can be made considering the progression rate and its impact on the patient's quality of life.
How Long Does Cataract Surgery Take?
The duration of cataract surgery can vary between 10 to 20 minutes. The procedure is usually performed under local anesthesia, typically using only eye drops, and the patient does not feel pain or discomfort.
Patients are discharged on the same day after cataract surgery. The recovery process is closely monitored with checks performed by the eye health specialist. Femtosecond laser cataract surgery not only shortens the surgery duration but also provides a more precise and controlled procedure opportunity.
Intraocular Lenses Used in Cataract Treatment
In cataract surgery, after removing the cloudy natural eye lens, an artificial intraocular lens is placed. Lenses are offered in different options according to the patient's lifestyle, vision expectations, and any existing eye defects.
Monofocal lenses correct only distant vision, while multifocal lenses support both distant and near vision. Toric lenses are suitable for patients with astigmatism. Selecting the correct lens during cataract treatment directly affects the success of the surgery, and the most suitable lens for the patient is determined with the guidance of the physician.
Post-Cataract Surgery Process
Blurred vision after cataract surgery is a temporary condition and vision usually begins to clear within a few days. This process can vary from person to person. As the eye heals after surgery, fluctuations in vision may be experienced. For patients with multifocal lenses, the adaptation period may be slightly longer. Eye drops help reduce the risk of infection, and temporary glasses may be recommended.
Cataract Surgery Prices
Cataract surgery prices can vary depending on the surgical method to be applied, the type of lens preferred, and the scope of services offered by the healthcare institution. The use of femtosecond laser in surgeries, the use of advanced technology, and special lens preferences are among the most important factors affecting the price. Providing a comprehensive briefing by assessing the patient's situation before surgery is very important in clarifying all details regarding the treatment process.
Frequently Asked Questions
How is cataract surgery performed?
Cataract surgery is a surgical procedure performed when the eye lens loses its transparency. The method used in surgery is called phacoemulsification. In this method, a small incision is made in the eye, and the cloudy lens is fragmented and removed with the help of ultrasonic waves. Then, an artificial intraocular lens is placed.
What should be considered after cataract surgery?
Post-surgery, the eye drops prescribed by the doctor should be used regularly, and check-ups should not be neglected. Attention should be paid to hygiene rules to prevent the eye from becoming infected, and dusty environments should be avoided. Avoid heavy exercises and movements that can increase intraocular pressure, such as bending forward. Blurred vision may occur in the first few days. This is normal and vision starts to clear up within a few days. Avoiding actions like scratching or rubbing the eye positively influences the healing process.
Is there a certain age limit for cataract surgery?
Although cataracts mostly occur with aging, they can be seen at any age. Congenital cataract cases can cause serious vision loss if not treated during childhood. Therefore, regardless of age, surgery can be performed with the doctor's decision if there is any cataract affecting vision quality. Individuals with diabetes may be diagnosed with cataracts at earlier ages and surgical intervention may be necessary.
Can cataracts recur?
Cataracts do not recur since an artificial lens is placed in place of the removed natural lens. However, some patients may develop a condition called "secondary cataract." This is when the capsule behind the placed artificial lens becomes cloudy over time. In such a case, this cloudiness can be removed with a short laser procedure without the need for a second surgery. This situation should be considered not as a recurrence of cataracts, but as a possible complication.