Friday, March 6, 2015

Details About Cataract Surgery San Antonio

By Leslie Ball


There are a lot of problems that may arise in the eyes, especially as people age. Cataract is a medical term that is used to describe a cloudy lens over the eye. In most people, this part of the eye has a naturally clear lens. Typically the problem developed because of aging, but sometimes it is present and birth or develops sooner because of drug, physical or chemical injury. Cataract surgery San Antonio is available to those residing in San Antonio, TX.

This is a common operation done around the world, especially in the United States. It is known to be effective for clearing up the cloudiness that comes with this condition. During the procedure, the cloudy lens is cleaned out or removed and replaced by a clear lens that is man-made.

Most of the surgeries of this kind are done using a technique known as phacoemulsification or small cut surgery. The cut, or incision, can be smaller in size. The hard center part of the lens will be made into liquid and then removed by a special vacuum. Patients will be put under local anesthesia and the surgery will perform the operation by making a small cut at the side of the cornea.

This process involves the use of a special device that passes along ultrasound vibrations. It is placed within the eye and used to break the lens into tiny pieces. These pieces can then be removed by suction through the small site of the incision. Eye doctors may utilize a laser to make the cut in hopes that the improves the recovery of the patient.

When the cataract has been taken out, the doctor will often add in a man-made lens known as the IOL or intraocular lens. This process is known as the IOL implantation. This type of lens is clear and made from silicone, plastic or acrylic. Doctors will assign an optical power to this based on the needs of a patient. This is beneficial for those looking to restore normal vision and even eliminate or minimize the need for glasses. The lens is considered permanent and does not require special care. An IOL can also improve vision because it helps focus light onto the retina.

This is often done as an outpatient service that typically lasts less than one hour and is carried out in an operating room. Patients are not expected to stay at the hospital following their procedure. People should take the time to find the best surgeons available in the area. Consider their costs, available services, accepted insurances, and reviews and ratings.

Generally speaking, doctor will not remove cataracts from both eyes in the same operation. If there is a need for this in both eyes, patients will need to schedule two separate surgeries, typically a few weeks apart. Surgeons will give patients all the details they should know about this process, including after-care solutions.

People should always follow surgeon orders. Furthermore, they should take the time to do their own research to learn about what this procedure involves. As with any medical procedures, there are potential risks and long-term effects worth knowing.




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