Cataract refers to the clouding of the native lens of the human eye. While it usually occurs with ageing, certain individuals, such as those with diabetes and those on long-term steroid use, may experience its onset earlier.
Currently, there is no established method for preventing cataracts. However, adopting standard precautions such as minimising sunlight exposure (ultraviolet rays) may slow down its progression.
You will need to stop wearing contact lens (at least one week for soft lens and at least two weeks for hard lens) prior to undergoing intraocular lens (IOL) calculation for surgical planning.
The most common forms of cataract surgery are:
1. Phacoemulsification
A 20-minute procedure often performed under local anaesthesia as a day surgery.
2. Extracapsular Cataract Extraction (ECCE)
Lasting about 30 minutes, this surgery requires a larger incision and visual rehabilitation will take longer. Sutures may need to be removed one to two months after surgery.
3. Femtoseond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS)
FLACS is the latest type of cataract extraction surgery, where a precise laser is used to replace certain steps of standard phacoemulsification. A laser creates an opening in the anterior lens capsule and softens the lens nucleus.
What Is Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery?
Femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery (FLACS) is the latest type of cataract extraction surgery, where a precise laser is used to replace certain steps of standard phacoemulsification. A laser creates an opening in the anterior lens capsule and soften the lens nucleus. It aims to reduce damage to the inner surface of the cornea while increasing precision of intraocular lens placement.
The laser procedure is first performed on a separate machine before the patient is transferred to the surgical bed for completion of the cataract surgery. The surgeon evaluate an individual's suitability for this procedure.
Conrad-Hengerer I, Al Juburi M, Schultz T, et al. Corneal endothelial cell loss and corneal thickness in conventional compared with femtosecond laser-assisted cataract surgery: three-month follow-up. J Cataract Refract Surg. 2013 Sep;39(9):1307-13.
Cataract surgery is a common and generally safe procedure, but proper aftercare is essential for a smooth recovery. Knowing what to expect during the healing process can help you avoid complications and get the best results from your treatment.
1. Immediately after surgery:
2. In the days or weeks after surgery:
Full recovery usually takes a few weeks, and most people notice improved vision within days.
While cataract surgery is generally safe, complications can still occur:
Standard monofocal lens corrects for distance vision; however, reading glasses will still be required for near vision.
Monovision is a form of presbyopic correction whereby one eye is corrected for distance and the fellow eye is corrected for near vision. This allows for spectacle independence in selected patients. However, fine depth perception may be compromised.