021-34988034 | 021-34823148

What We Do

CATARACT

What is a cataract and what are its symptoms?

A cataract is whitening of lens inside the eye. It is usually a normal process of aging.

What are the symptoms of cataracts?

Patients usually complain of blurred vision, decreased vision or not being able to see colors properly.

How is a cataract treated?

If the cataract is not causing trouble then no treatment is needed. If the cataract is less, then vision can be improved with glasses. If glasses do not help, then cataract extraction surgery needs to be performed.

How is cataract surgery performed? Is it safe?

At Shahzad Eye Hospital, cataract surgery is performed using state-of-the-art equipment.

A micro-incision is made to access the lens, which is then removed using phacoemulsification (ultrasonic power). A new intra-ocular lens (IOL) is placed in its place to give the patient perfect vision.

The procedure usually lasts between 15-30 minutes.

Does cataract surgery hurt?

Before the operations, the patient is given anesthetic eye drops and a local anesthetic injection. These do not hurt at all, or hurt minimally. Once the anesthetic is given, the patient feel NO pain during the surgery.

What are the risks of cataract surgery?

Every surgical procedure carries some risk. Cataract surgery is the most performed surgery throughout the world. The risks of irreparable complications to the eye are extremely low. By and large, it is a safe surgery.

However, the most common risks are infection and retinal detachment, which are risks are low.

What kind of intra-ocular lenses (IOL) are there? What is difference in surgery with different IOLs?

There are many kinds of IOLs. Hard IOL: these are non-foldable IOLs and require a larger wound to insert the lens. This requires longer rehabilitation. These require glasses for near vision after the operation. Foldable IOL: these are the most commonly used IOLs. These require a much smaller wound to insert and rehabilitation is much faster. These give a better quality of vision after the operation. These require glasses for near vision after the operation. Foldable IQ IOL: this is also a foldable IOL. This lens blocks the UV light entering there and therefore causes less damage to the retina in the long term. This is also requires a small wound and rehabilitation is much faster. These require glasses for near vision after the operation. Toric IOL: these lenses are usually foldable IOL. The also correct the astigmatism in the eye. Multifocal: these lenses correct vision after the operation in a way that no glasses are required for near or distance after the operation.

What happens during cataract surgery?

You are placed flat on the surgical bed, and a drape is placed over your face to keep a clean and sterile surgical field. Your heart rate and ECG are monitored during the surgery. If required, a staff member can be present to hold your hand during the duration of the surgery. The operation is performed as described above.

What happens after cataract surgery?

An eye pad is placed on the operated eye and you are sent home with medicines and instructions. You will be either called back to clinic the same day or the next day to remove the eye pad and be examined.

When can I work or drive after cataract surgery?

It is usually not recommended to drive on the day of the surgery. After the eye pad is removed, it takes a couple of days to get used to it and if you feel well, you can drive.

You may require a couple of days off work after the surgery.

What precautions do I need to take after the surgery?

  • There are a few things you will have to take care of after the surgery.
  • You cannot put water in the operated eye- to wash your face you will need to wipe your face with a clean wet towel instead.
  • You are allowed to shower neck down.
  • You are instructed not to lift heavy weights.
  • You are instructed not to bend down. For prayer, you will have to perform it sitting down.
  • You are allowed to watch TV and read right after the eye pad is removed.
  • You will be given an eye shield to place on top of the operated eye when you sleep, so you don’t accidentally touch or rub your eye.

Will I need glasses after cataract surgery?

Every effort is made that glasses are not required after surgery. However, a small percentage of patients will need glasses for clear vision. Reading glasses are usually needed after the surgery