Cataracts are responsible for vision loss in many older adults all across the world, yet the condition can be easily treated with surgery. In recent years, lasers have become commonplace in cataract surgery, helping to improve the efficiency of the operation, and reducing stress on the eye. But how is the procedure done, and what is the recovery time for laser cataract surgery.
Cataract
Cataract, which is the opacity of the eye’s natural lens, is a disease that prevents focused light from reaching the retina. It is a condition in which the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, thereby impairing vision. Cataracts are typically age-related, and often result from the build-up of protein on the lenses over time, but they can also develop in childhood.
Laser Cataract Surgery
Laser cataract surgery involves replacing the natural lens of the eye with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The lens is removed with a femtosecond laser. The laser is normally used to perform several steps in cataract surgery, including the corneal incision.
Recovery time
After surgery your vision will be blurry, as the eyes will take a few days to heal. Some patients may notice an improvement within a few days of surgery, but it can take up to 4 weeks for others. Patients are required to wear an eye shield to protect the eye for at least 7 days after surgery. All strenuous exercise and heavy lifting should be avoided during this time.
If you live in northern Virginia or Washington, DC, contact New View Eye Center, Reston, VA, to find out more about laser cataract surgery.
Why not give us a call today at (703) 834-9777, to schedule a consultation with ophthalmologist Dr. Jacqueline Griffiths.