A Senior’s Guide to Cataract Surgery
As eye functionality declines with age, the risk for cataracts increases. The average age for a person in the UK to undergo cataract surgery is 76 years old, however many patients undergo cataract surgery whilst in their 80s, 90s and even aged over 100. If you find out that you have cataract and it is impacting on your quality of life – such as reading, watching TV or driving difficulties, then it is important to consider all options. If cataract surgery is necessary, the more ‘in the know you’ are, the better. The procedure will feel far smoother for you and you will be more confident going in for your treatment.
With this in mind, we’ve put together a senior’s guide to cataract surgery, so you can be certain in the process and make the right decisions, at the right time, for you.
Before Surgery
You will have an appointment with a Consultant who will enquire about your visual problems and examine your eye to assess the extent of your cataract and whether there are any other problems affecting your eye. If it is advisable to proceed with cataract surgery then your surgeon will perform a series of measurements to determine the correct power of lens implant to be used during the surgery. Your surgeon will also go through the consent process to ensure you are fully aware of the risks and benefits of undergoing cataract surgery.
The vast majority of operations are performed under local anaesthesia as a day case procedure, so you can eat and drink as normal prior to your surgery. If you do choose to undergo the operation under sedation or general anaesthesia, then you will be advised to avoid eating and drinking for 8 hours prior. If you are taking blood thinning medications, then you may be advised to stop taking these the day before surgery.
During surgery
Upon arrival, eye drops will be instilled in order to dilate the pupil and anaesthetise the eye. The area around the eye will be cleaned and a drape place over the eye to ensure a sterile environment. The operation usually lasts around half an hour and is generally painless.
After the operation, a plastic shield is placed over the eye and you will be encouraged to rest for an hour or so before being driven home by a family member or friend. You will normally be in hospital for approximately 3 hours from the time of admission to going home.
After surgery
You should notice an improvement in vision after a few days. It is usual to experience mild itching and discomfort after cataract surgery and fluid discharge is often common. The eye may be sensitive to light and touch, but these symptoms should reduce within a couple of days.
You will be required to apply eye drops for 4 weeks to help with healing and decrease the risk of infection. You need to wear an eye shield whilst sleeping for 1 week to help protect the eye and ensure any rubbing or pressing is avoided.
You will be advised to avoid any strenuous exercise or swimming for 2 weeks, but you can continue with normal light activities such as walking, cooking and light house work.
Depending on your vision and whether you have a cataract in your other eye, you may be able to return to driving within 1-2 weeks.
In most cases, your eyes will be fully healed within 4 weeks and your surgeon will schedule a post-operative visit to check on your progress. You will also be given a discharge leaflet to remind you of post-operative instructions with a phone number to call if you have any queries or concerns.
Success Rate
Cataract surgery is one of the most common operations performed and is one of the safest and most effective types of surgery you can have. Over 95% of cataract surgeries result in better vision and improved quality of life.
Although complications can occur with any type of surgery, fortunately the risk of a serious complication that can result in significantly reduced vision following cataract surgery is rare – at less than 1:1000 cases.
If your treatment is pending, we offer a number of helpful resources designed to help you in the build-up. Take a look at our article on How to Overcome the Fear of Cataract Surgery to find out more.
If you’re thinking about cataract surgery and would like more information about the procedure, don’t hesitate to contact a member of the team for a consultation.