Introduction
Cataracts remain as one of the leading causes of blindness not just in the Philippines but also around the world. It is characterized by the clouding of the normally clear lenses of the eyes. This is why people who have this condition experience blurry or foggy vision and because of this, they may find certain everyday activities, like using a mobile phone, reading a book, watching TV, driving a car, or even recognizing faces, quite difficult.
While this condition commonly affects senior citizens, cataracts can also affect young adults, teens, and even infants.
The way cataracts progress varies from one person to another. It can be slow in some cases, while in others it might develop more quickly. Speaking to the best cataract surgeon can help you be more informed about the different options to manage or treat your condition.
In the early stages, wearing eyeglasses should be enough, but if you are having difficulty seeing things and doing tasks, you may be recommended to undergo cataract surgery in the Philippines. Talk to the Asian Eye Institute team today to learn more about our eye care services for cataract patients.
When Is Cataract Surgery Necessary?
Removing cataracts is best left to you and your doctor to decide. Top cataract surgeons might encourage you to get the procedure if your condition is already in an advanced stage and will hinder you from doing your daily tasks.
Surgery may also be recommended if you have other vision problems that cannot be examined. After all, your eyes’ cloudy lenses are enough cause for concern. In these situations, your doctor might suggest removing the cataracts so they can check your eye better and provide the necessary treatment.
If you prefer not to undergo surgery just yet, your doctor might suggest you wear glasses to help with blurry vision. Your specialist will also recommend that you undergo regular comprehensive eye exams to monitor how your cataract is progressing. Although, keep in mind that your condition might develop faster than usual, depending on several factors. This can happen to people with diabetes, obesity, and high blood pressure.
What To Expect With Cataract Surgery
If you decide to get cataract surgery, your doctor will walk you through the steps of the procedure. Here are some things you should expect before, during, and after the operation:
Before
A few weeks or days before the surgery, a cataract screening will be conducted. It involves a series of tests that will be used to measure the size and shape of your eyes and evaluate your overall eye condition. This will also help your eye doctor determine the appropriate artificial lens (also called intraocular lens or IOL) for you. The IOL will then be used to replace the clouded lens in your eye and help improve your vision.
On the day of the procedure, the patient will be sedated to prevent them from feeling any discomfort. An anesthesiologist will also be in the room on standby to help monitor the patient. Eye drops will also be used to keep your pupils dilated throughout the operation.
During
During surgery, the doctor will create a small incision on the cornea using a blade or knife. Today, this process can be done with the help of the Victus Femtolaser, which eliminates the need for the blade when making the cut.
The laser also helps improve the accuracy and precision of opening the capsule and breaking the cataract. Once done, the IOL will be inserted through the same opening to replace the removed lens. The patient will then be given goggles to protect their eyes from external elements.
The entire procedure can be done in less than an hour. It is generally safe, and the success rate is incredibly high. Globally, statistics reflect similar positive outcomes, with up to 95% of patients achieving a best-corrected visual acuity of 20/40 post-surgery, and a 99% success rate documented in studies from reputable sources such as the National Library of Medicine and UCI Health.
After
Cataract surgery is considered an outpatient procedure, so you can go back home on the same day as long as someone accompanies you. In some instances, you might be asked to stay in the hospital for a few more hours after the operation—this is just so the doctors can better monitor your condition.
Of course, it is normal to experience itchiness and discomfort in the first few days, but these symptoms will eventually dissipate as you heal. You might also have to forgo physical activities for a few weeks to help you heal faster. If you experience vision loss, intolerable pain, and other severe complications, you should return to the clinic and seek medical help right away.
It is important to note that the best cataract surgeons will require you to visit them a day, a week, and a month after the surgery. Doing so may help doctors assess if you are recovering properly. You can be fully healed in just a few weeks if you religiously follow your doctor’s postoperative care instructions.
Connect With the Best Cataract Surgeons
Cataracts can result in vision loss if not treated or managed promptly. To prevent this, consult your doctor about the best course of action for your condition. If the cataract is in its early stages, you may be prescribed glasses. However, if it has progressed to a severe level, seeking treatment at a hospital known in the Philippines for the best cataract surgery may be necessary.
Contact us at Asian Eye Institute today to learn about some of the best types of cataract surgeries available to patients in the Philippines. We have skilled and experienced doctors who can explain the procedure and help you decide if it is a good option for you. Our surgeons use the latest and most advanced equipment to perform cataract operations on our patients, so the chance for a successful surgery is relatively high.
For more information, do not hesitate to speak with our team. Our lines are open, so you can call us through our telephone or mobile numbers. We also have an online form that you can use to set an appointment with our doctors. Fill it out with the necessary information and wait for our confirmation. It will be sent to you via email once your schedule is approved.
