Frequently Asked Questions about Cataract

• When will my vision stabilize after cataract surgery?
• What are the risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing cataracts?
• What should be avoided after cataract surgery?
• Can cataracts affect young people or children?
• What causes cloudiness in the eye after cataract surgery?
• What will the eye look like after cataract surgery?
• Is it normal to experience headaches after cataract surgery?
• Can I prostrate after cataract surgery?
• Is smoking allowed after cataract surgery?
• How is cataract surgery performed?
• Is cataract surgery painful?
• What is the success rate of cataract surgery?
• Is there a way to treat cataracts without surgery?
• How long does cataract surgery take?
• Will my vision improve after cataract surgery?
• Can I take shower after cataract surgery?
• Does cataract surgery cause blindness?

When will my vision stabilize after cataract surgery?

Vision typically stabilizes within one or two days after the procedure, achieving about 95% of ideal vision. After a week, the vision improves significantly, but some people may require more time. This depends on several factors, including the condition of the eye, the type of surgery performed, and the body’s response to the surgical intervention.

What are the risk factors that increase the likelihood of developing cataracts?

Cataracts is a condition affecting the lens of the eye, and several factors can increase the risk of developing cataracts. Here are some potential risks:

Aging: Being over 60 years old is a major factor in increasing the likelihood of cataracts. UV exposure: Prolonged exposure to ultraviolet (UV) rays from the sun can increase the risk of cataracts. Smoking: Smoking is associated with a higher risk of cataracts. Previous health conditions: Some diseases, like diabetes, can increase the likelihood of cataracts. Eye injury: An eye injury may increase the chances of cataracts developing. Genetics: Genetics can play a role in increasing the risk of cataracts. Use of certain medications: Some medications, particularly those containing corticosteroids, can increase the risk of cataracts. Obesity: A higher body mass index (BMI) can influence the likelihood of cataracts. Excessive alcohol consumption: Drinking large amounts of alcohol can be linked to an increased risk of cataracts.

Reminder: Dr. Mohammad Al-Anzi recommends maintaining a healthy lifestyle, including protecting the eyes from sun exposure, avoiding smoking, and having regular medical check-ups, all of which can reduce the risk of cataracts.

What should be avoided after cataract surgery?

After undergoing cataract removal surgery, certain guidelines and restrictions must be followed to ensure proper recovery. Here are some things to avoid after the procedure:

• Avoid rubbing your eyes: Refrain from rubbing your eyes forcefully, as this could damage the eye or increase the risk of infection.
• Avoid strenuous activities: Activities that might raise eye pressure, such as heavy lifting or excessive bending, should be avoided.
• Avoid swimming in contaminated water: Stay away from swimming in polluted or unclean water to prevent infections.
• Avoid smoking and exposure to smoke: Smoking increases the risk of infections and delays the healing process.
• Avoid excessive eye strain: Limit activities that cause significant strain on your eyes, such as prolonged reading.
• Avoid using makeup: Refrain from applying makeup around the eyes during the early recovery period to prevent irritation.
• Avoid direct sun exposure: Wear sunglasses to protect your eyes from harmful UV rays.
• Avoid wearing contact lenses: Do not wear contact lenses during the initial recovery period to allow your eyes to heal properly.

These are general guidelines. Always follow the specific instructions provided by the medical team at #Roya_Hakeem to ensure safe and effective healing.

Can cataracts affect young people or children?

#Cataract is a condition that often affects older adults due to aging, but it can occur in any age group, including young adults and children. In children, cataracts can result from genetic factors or other health issues. Cataracts in young adults may be caused by injuries, infections, or other eye-related problems

What causes cloudiness in the eye after cataract surgery?

After undergoing cataract surgery, some patients experience blurred or hazy vision, leading them to believe that the cataract has returned. However, this belief is incorrect, as the condition is often due to other factors, such as:

• Clouding of the posterior lens capsule: Over time, mild clouding can occur in the posterior capsule of the lens. This can be treated effectively using laser technology.
• Vitreous floaters: These are a natural and non-concerning condition that can occur in healthy individuals, whether before or after cataract surgery.

What will the eye look like after cataract surgery?

After cataract surgery, the cloudy natural lens is replaced with a clear artificial lens. The primary effect is improved clarity of vision, and the blurriness or visual haze caused by the cataract typically disappears.

In general, the shape of the eye does not change significantly after the procedure, and the eye maintains its natural appearance. The main difference lies in the patient’s ability to see objects more clearly and precisely, which enhances visual quality and provides greater comfort for the patient.

Is it normal to experience headaches after cataract surgery?

A mild headache commonly occurs after cataract surgery, typically due to pain or dryness in the eye. This headache can be easily managed with simple medications.

Can I prostrate after cataract surgery?

The instructions from the #Roya_Hakim team recommend avoiding prostration or bending for a period ranging from one day to four weeks after the procedure, depending on the type of surgery, to ensure full recovery.

Is smoking allowed after cataract surgery?

Smoking before the procedure can affect its outcomes. Dr. #Hassan_Alkowaikbi recommends quitting smoking at least four weeks prior to the surgery.

How is cataract surgery performed?

Eye Anesthesia:
The eye is anesthetized using local anesthesia, which typically numbs the front part of the eye without affecting the rest of the body.

Corneal Incision:
A small incision is made in the cornea to allow access to the lens for fragmentation and removal of the cloudy components.

Cataract Fragmentation:
If the lens is clouded or cataract-affected, it is fragmented using a device called a phacoemulsifier. Laser technology may also be used to break up the cataract.

Natural Lens Removal:
The fragmented portions of the natural lens are removed using the phacoemulsifier, which suctions out the lens material after fragmentation.

Artificial Lens Implantation:
An artificial lens is placed in the position of the removed natural lens. This lens remains securely fixed in place permanently.

Wound Healing:
The patient is given post-operative care instructions, including using anti-inflammatory medications and protective measures to ensure proper wound healing.

Follow-Up:
Follow-up appointments with the doctor are scheduled to ensure full recovery and evaluate the quality of vision achieved after the procedure.

Post-Operative Precautions:
Patients must avoid certain activities, such as bending or prostrating, and follow the instructions provided by the #Roya_Hakim team to ensure the procedure’s success and improved vision.

Is cataract surgery painful?

Typically, no. The eye is well anesthetized before the procedure, so the patient does not feel any pain during the surgery.

What is the success rate of cataract surgery?

The success rate of cataract surgery is usually high and depends on several factors, including the condition of the eye and the patient’s overall health. The procedure delivers positive results for the majority of patients.

Is there a way to treat cataracts without surgery?

There is no effective non-surgical treatment for cataracts. The cloudy lens can only be replaced with an artificial lens through surgery.

How long does cataract surgery take?

The cataract surgery usually takes about 20-30 minutes. The actual time depends on the complexity of the eye condition and the type of procedure used.

Will my vision improve after cataract surgery?

Yes, in general, vision significantly improves after cataract surgery, as the cloudy lens is replaced with an artificial lens that helps achieve clear vision.

Can I take shower after cataract surgery?

It is generally advised to avoid getting water or soap in the eye for a few days after the surgery. However, regular showering can be resumed afterward, with caution to avoid direct water contact with the eye for one week from the date of the procedure.

Does cataract surgery cause blindness?

If symptoms are ignored, it may lead to the risk of blindness. Therefore, it is recommended to consult a doctor as soon as any symptoms appear. A thorough eye examination and accurate diagnosis are essential to avoid potential complications of cataracts.