CATARACT SURGERY, DIAGNOSIS, AND TREATMENT: Q AND A WITH KHURRAM NAFEES

Cataract surgery is a procedure to remove the lens of the eye and replace it with an artificial lens. It is very common these days and is performed by an ophthalmologist; it is generally a safe procedure to treat cataracts. With this surgery, several patients are fully able to recover their eyesight. 

Dr. Khurram Nafees is an eye specialist in Lahore who practices at Fatima Memorial Hospital. In this session with oladoc, he talks about a number of eye-related problems, in particular, cataract and surgery to treat this condition.

Q.1: What is cataract surgery?

Basically, the lens of the eye is supposed to be transparent for optimum vision. A cataract causes the lens to get foggy, a white layer can be observed around the lens. This makes it difficult to see properly, it can increase the amount of glare around lights and this affects a patients day to day activities, for example driving becomes extremely difficult. 

Q.2: How is cataract surgery performed?

Due to advancements in the medical field, the surgery is performed through laser. Early diagnosis is important because otherwise, the cataract can turn black and even cause permanent blindness. Therefore, we recommend the patients to consult an eye specialist at the earliest if they experience foggy eyesight or any of the other symptoms.

Original lens of the eye is removed an artificial lens is implanted; sometimes the original lens is melted and then taken out to be replaced. There are different types of artificial lens but usually, a foldable lens is inserted because it is smaller and safer. 

Q.3: What is the diagnosis for cataract surgery?

A proper examination of the patient is done and other factors are taken into account, for examples if the patient is diabetic then variations are made to the surgery procedure. The most important symptom is bad eyesight, not being able to drive at night due to enhanced glare of lights etcetera. 

Q.4: What are the side effects of cataract surgery?

Like I said before, advancements in the medical field ensure minimal side effects compared to conventional surgeries which even included stitches in the eye. In the case of cataract surgery, not even general anaesthesia is administered, the eye is made numb with the help of tropical drops and the procedure is performed.

In rare cases, this surgery can cause redness in the eyes, discharge, dry eyes and very rarely the lens does not stay in its place. Infection rate is also very less if proper precautions are taken these side effects can be managed. 

Q.5: How long does it take to fully recover from cataract surgery?

A patient recovers from cataract surgery relatively quickly, we advise the patient to not let the water come in contact with their eyes the following 2-3 days after the surgery, and we also recommend the patient to not bend. After 2-3 days, the patient can resume their day to day activities. 

If you want to learn more about cataract surgery, watch the full video. If you are thinking of getting cataract surgery, consult an eye specialist. You can book an appointment with a top eye specialist through oladoc.com, or call our helpline at 042-3890-0939 for assistance to find the RIGHT professional for your concerns.