Cataract surgery is a procedure to remove the lens of your eye and, in most cases, replace it with an artificial lens. Here are some key points about cataract surgery:
What is a Cataract?
- Cataract: A cataract is a clouding of the normally clear lens of your eye, which can lead to a decrease in vision. It is most commonly due to aging, but can also result from trauma, radiation exposure, genetic factors, or long-term use of steroids.
Types of Cataract Surgery
- Phacoemulsification (Phaco):
- Most Common Method: Uses an ultrasound probe to break up the cloudy lens into small pieces, which are then removed.
- Small Incision: This method requires a small incision and often does not need stitches.
- Extracapsular Cataract Extraction (ECCE):
- Less Common: Used when the cataract is too dense for phacoemulsification.
- Larger Incision: Involves making a larger incision to remove the cloudy lens in one piece.
- Stitches Required: May require stitches to close the incision.
- Laser-assisted Cataract Surgery:
- Femtosecond Laser: Uses a laser to make the initial incisions and to soften the cataract before removal.
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