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Home > Cataract Surgery

Overview

Published with the inputs from Dr Nimmy Merin Mathew, Consultant, Ophthalmology, Baby Memorial Hospitals- Thodupuzha

Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure to treat cataracts — a clouding of the natural lens inside the eye that causes blurry vision, glare, or difficulty seeing at night. During surgery, the cloudy lens is removed and replaced with an artificial lens implant (intraocular lens or IOL) to restore clear vision. Cataract surgery is one of the most common and successful surgeries worldwide.

What is cataract surgery, and why is it done?

Cataract surgery is performed to remove the clouded natural lens of the eye and replace it with a clear artificial lens. It is recommended when cataracts interfere with daily activities like reading, driving, or recognizing faces.

How is cataract surgery performed?

The most common method is phacoemulsification, where a tiny incision is made in the eye, the cataract is broken up with ultrasound waves, and the cloudy lens is removed. An intraocular lens (IOL) is then implanted. The procedure usually takes 15–30 minutes and is done under local anesthesia with mild sedation.

Is cataract surgery painful?

No. Cataract surgery is virtually painless. Patients are awake but comfortable during the procedure because numbing drops or local anesthesia are used. Mild pressure may be felt, but pain is uncommon.

What types of lenses are used in cataract surgery?

There are different types of intraocular lenses (IOLs):

  • Monofocal lenses: Provide clear vision at one distance (near or far)
  • Multifocal lenses: Offer both near and distance vision, reducing the need for glasses
  • Toric lenses: Correct astigmatism along with cataracts

Your eye surgeon will help choose the best lens based on lifestyle and vision needs.

What are the risks of cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is very safe, but risks may include infection, bleeding, inflammation, lens dislocation, or vision problems. Rarely, retinal detachment or glaucoma may occur. Choosing an experienced ophthalmologist reduces complications.

What is recovery like after cataract surgery?

Recovery is usually quick. Most patients go home the same day, with vision improving within a few days. Eye drops are prescribed to prevent infection and aid healing. Normal activities can often be resumed within a week, though complete healing takes 4–6 weeks.

How successful is cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery has a very high success rate, with more than 95% of patients experiencing improved vision. Modern surgical techniques and advanced lenses provide excellent long-term outcomes.

Connect with Our Experts Today

If you are experiencing cloudy vision or difficulty seeing due to cataracts, our Ophthalmology Team at Baby Memorial Hospitals provides advanced cataract surgery with the latest intraocular lens options.

📞 Call us or book an Appointment Online to schedule your eye consultation.

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