Cataract is the clouding of the eye lens due to the loss of its transparency. This leads to decreased and impaired vision clarity. It can occur due to age-related factors or hereditary reasons. The sole treatment method for cataracts is refractive surgery. Several methods are applied within this, one of which is the Cataract treatment with Femtosecond Laser, which has developed and rapidly gained popularity in recent years.
Thanks to the use of Laser in cataract surgeries, it can be performed in a safer, more secure, comfortable manner with minimal risk of complications compared to traditional surgical methods.
Differences Between Femtosecond Laser Cataract Surgery and Traditional Phacoemulsification
- The incision is made with a laser and no blade is used, preserving tissue integrity
- The incision is precise and planned, which positively affects post-operative visual clarity and image quality
- Since it is performed under computer control, the risk of error is zero
- The risk of edema and infection is very low
- During the fragmentation of the cataractous lens, surrounding tissues are not damaged
- Ensures the seamless preparation of the eye socket where the artificial intraocular lens is placed
- Corrects visual defects such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism in addition to cataracts.
In the traditional Phaco method, the most crucial factor for the success of the procedure is the surgeon's experience, and the risk of complications is much higher with the traditional method. Additionally, in the traditional method, the healing period is longer, therefore, returning to routine life takes time.
The femtosecond laser method has been developed to enhance surgical success especially for patients choosing multifocal, trifocal, or toric intraocular lenses and wishing to remain glasses-free. For patients choosing specialty intraocular lenses, the preferred treatment method should be the "Femtosecond Laser" technique.
Before the operation, specialized anesthesia drops are instilled in the patient's eye twice every five minutes. A vacuum is applied using a special apparatus to stabilize the eye for imaging; during this process, the eye is numb, so the patient does not feel any pain or discomfort. Subsequently, within a short period of about 50-60 seconds, the incision and fragmentation of the clouded lens are completed. Afterwards, these fragments are aspirated and a new intraocular lens is implanted.
After the procedure, the eye is not covered, only protective eyewear is provided. Patients can return to normal life following routine checkups the next day.
What is Femtosecond Laser Cataract Surgery?
Offering a more precise and controlled approach compared to traditional surgical techniques, femtosecond laser technology has gained significant importance in cataract treatment in recent years. This method enables the surgeon to perform incisions with sub-millimeter precision using laser assistance without contacting the tissues. During cataract surgery, stages such as opening the lens capsule, fragmenting the lens, and performing corrections on the cornea can be carried out more securely and consistently with this laser.
Femtosecond laser cataract surgery requires less energy usage than the standard phacoemulsification method. This results in less damage to intraocular tissues and a shortened recovery process. Moreover, this technology allows simultaneous correction of co-existing visual defects like astigmatism, which can help reduce the need for glasses post-surgery. When planning cataract surgery, the surgeon must evaluate the patient's eye structure to determine suitability for this method.
What is Cataract Surgery and Why is it Necessary?
Cataract is a condition arising from the clouding of the eye lens due to a loss of its natural transparency. Although it typically develops due to aging, it can also be seen due to systemic conditions such as diabetes, trauma, long-term steroid use, or genetic predisposition. Cataracts may initially present with symptoms such as impaired night vision, light sensitivity, faded colors, and difficulty reading. As the condition progresses, it leads to vision loss that directly affects daily life.
Cataract surgery is the only effective treatment method for the disease. During this procedure, the clouded natural lens is removed, and an artificial intraocular lens is implanted in its place. Recent technology lenses not only provide clear vision but can also correct distant and near vision defects. Especially with femtosecond laser-assisted surgeries, the implantation of these lenses is carried out more precisely, thus increasing the success rate of the operation. Cataract surgery significantly enhances the quality of life for individuals in the advanced age group.
Post-Cataract Surgery Care
Adhering to some basic rules during the post-cataract surgery period ensures healthy and rapid completion of recovery. Symptoms like a sensation of something in the eye, mild watering, blurry vision, or light sensitivity may be observed after the operation. These effects typically diminish shortly. Following the surgery, particular attention to hygiene rules is essential. The eye should not be exposed directly to soapy water, and it is advisable to keep the head back while showering during the first week.
Eye drops prescribed by the doctor should be used regularly and as per the prescription. These drops help in preventing infections and reducing inflammation. The eye should not be rubbed, dusty environments should be avoided, and sunglasses or protective eyewear should be worn. Considerations in the post-cataract surgery period also include avoiding heavy lifting, not bending forward, and being mindful of head position. It is advised against participating in sports, swimming, or entering sauna-like environments for the first few weeks.
Although the recovery process varies from person to person, generally, daily life can be resumed within a week. However, it may take several weeks for the final visual quality to stabilize. Regular physician checkups following the surgery contribute to monitoring the treatment process healthily.
When to Opt for Eye Cataract Surgery?
Since cataract typically appears age-related, many patients gradually notice its symptoms. These symptoms could involve blurred vision, scattering of lights when driving at night, double vision, faded colors, and frequent changes in eyeglass prescriptions. The onset of these complaints affecting quality of life is the most important indication of the need for surgery. Some patients might detect cataracts at an early stage, but surgery is not preferred unless the visual impairment significantly impacts daily life.
However, performing the surgery before the cataract progresses too far makes the operation easier and shortens the recovery time. Currently, eye cataract surgery is considered a fast, comfortable, and safe procedure. Interventions performed with modern devices minimize incision size, eliminate the need for stitches, and the patient is often discharged on the same day. This operation not only improves visual quality but also allows the individual to independently conduct activities such as reading and writing more healthily.
Frequently Asked Questions
How Long Does Cataract Surgery Take?
Cataract surgery typically takes between 15 and 30 minutes. In some cases, the duration might be shorter in femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgeries. However, since every patient's condition is different, the surgical duration may vary.
How is Cataract Surgery Performed?
The surgery is performed under local anesthesia. The surgeon makes a small incision in the eye to remove the clouded natural lens. An artificial intraocular lens is then placed into this space. When femtosecond laser technology is employed, these procedures can be accomplished more precisely and in a tissue-friendly manner.
What is Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is a surgical procedure performed to eliminate the clouding of the eye lens. The natural lens that has lost transparency is removed and replaced with a clear artificial lens. It is applied to enhance visual quality and facilitate daily life activities.
What is Femtosecond Laser?
Femtosecond laser is an advanced laser system used in cataract and refractive surgeries. This laser operates with ultra-short precise pulses, allowing the surgeon to make microscopic interventions in eye tissues. Femtosecond laser enhances safety and success rates in stages such as the incision, capsule opening, and lens fragmentation in cataract surgeries.
Post-Cataract Surgery Care Considerations
The recovery process following cataract surgery is crucial for achieving a successful outcome and preventing potential complications. While the surgery itself is a comfortable and brief procedure, subsequent care and follow-ups are just as important as the surgery itself. The key considerations during this period are outlined as follows:
Firstly, eye drops prescribed by the doctor should be used regularly and as frequently suggested. These drops reduce the risk of infection, help control inflammation, and expedite the healing process. Attention should be paid to the sequence and intervals of drop use; some drops can interact with each other, so it is essential to adhere to the doctor's prescribed regimen.
In the initial days following surgery, symptoms such as a sensation of something in the eye, slight burning, or blur may occur transiently. These symptoms are generally considered normal; however, if there is increasing pain, sudden vision loss, or intense redness, it is imperative to consult an eye doctor.
Avoid any direct contact with the eye. The eyes should not be rubbed, and care should be taken to avoid contact with soap or shampoo. Particularly during the first few days, care should be taken to keep the head back when showering to prevent direct contact with water. Wearing glasses or protective eyewear can help safeguard against external factors.
Lifting heavy items, bending, making abrupt forward movements, or immediately resuming sports activities is not advised. Avoid driving for the first week, stay away from dusty environments, and avoid direct sunlight exposure.
In the first few nights, the head should be elevated while sleeping, preferably lying on the back. Prone positions should be avoided to prevent pressure on the head.
Post-surgery checkups should not be neglected; the first checkup is usually conducted the day after surgery. These check-ups are critical in ensuring the recovery is proceeding as planned.
Post-operative care for eye health ensures both a clear vision in the long run and an enhanced quality of life.