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BAJAJ FINSERV HEALTH LIMITED
Cataract Surgery
Find the best hospitals for Cataract Surgery on the Bajaj Finserv Health platform.
Minimum Cost
₹7,500
Average Cost
₹32,750
Maximum Cost
₹1,84,000
- Surgery Time: 15-30 min
- Recovery Time: 1-2 days
- Chances of Recurrence: None
- Success Rate: High
Quick links
- What is cataract surgery?
- Types of cataract surgery
- When is Cataract Surgery Required?
- How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery?
- What Happens Before Cataract Surgery?
- What Happens During Cataract Surgery?
- Post-operative Care
- Methods/Techniques Used for Performing Cataract Surgery
- Post Procedure Details
- Risks and Complications Associated with Cataract Surgery
- Conclusion
- Why Bajaj Health?
What is cataract surgery?
Cataract surgery is a common and effective medical procedure aimed at treating cataracts, a prevalent eye condition in which there is clouding of the eye's natural lens. The lens, which should be clear and transparent, becomes progressively opaque, leading to blurred or hazy vision. Cataracts often develop gradually and can significantly impact an individual's quality of life by interfering with daily activities like reading, driving, or recognizing faces. The primary aim of this operation is to remove the clouded natural lens and thereafter replace it using an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This IOL acts as a substitute for the eye's natural lens, enabling light to pass through properly and restoring clear vision. Cataract surgery is usually an outpatient procedure; thus, patients can return home on the same day.
Types of cataract surgery
Phacoemulsification (Phaco):
Phacoemulsification is the most common and modern technique used for cataract surgery. In this method, a small incision is made in the eye, and an ultrasound device called a phacoemulsifier is then used to break up the clouded lens into tiny fragments, which are then suctioned out of the eye. This technique allows for smaller incisions and quicker recovery times. It often results in less discomfort and reduced reliance on stitches.
Extracapsular Surgery:
Extracapsular surgery is an older technique that involves making a larger incision and removing the cloudy lens in a single piece, leaving the posterior lens capsule intact. The artificial IOL is then implanted in front of the remaining capsule. While this method is less commonly used today, it may be preferred in cases where phacoemulsification is not suitable due to severe cataracts or other eye conditions. Both techniques are generally safe and effective, but the surgical approach depends on factors like the patient's eye health, the severity of the cataract, and the surgeon's preference. The type of IOL used may also vary, offering options like monofocal, multifocal, or toric lenses, which can address specific vision needs such as astigmatism or presbyopia. Ultimately, cataract surgery aims to improve visual acuity and restore clarity to the vision, allowing individuals to enjoy a better quality of life and increased independence.
When is Cataract Surgery Required?
Cataracts are a common eye condition that often develops with age, affecting millions of people. They occur when the natural lens in the eye becomes cloudy; this causes blurred vision and difficulty seeing clearly. While cataracts can develop slowly over time, there comes a point when cataract surgery becomes necessary to improve one's vision and overall quality of life. Here are some key indicators of when cataract surgery is required:
Visual Impairment:
The primary reason for cataract surgery is a significant decline in vision that interferes with daily activities. If you find it challenging to read, drive, watch television, or recognize faces due to cloudy vision, cataract surgery may be needed.
Glare and Halos:
Cataracts can cause glare from lights, especially at night, making it hazardous to drive. Seeing halos around lights is also a common symptom that can impact nighttime vision. If these symptoms affect your safety and confidence, surgery may be necessary.
Prescription Changes:
Frequent changes in your eyeglass or contact lens prescription may indicate cataract development. If your vision deteriorates despite corrective lenses, cataracts might be the underlying cause.
Reduced Color Perception:
Cataracts can affect your ability to perceive colors accurately. Colors may appear faded or yellowish. This can impact activities like cooking, gardening, or choosing clothing.
Impact on Daily Life:
When cataracts interfere with your ability to enjoy life's simple pleasures, such as reading a book, enjoying hobbies, or spending time with loved ones, it's a clear sign that surgery may be necessary.
How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery?
Consultation with an Eye Specialist:
The first step is to schedule a consultation with an ophthalmologist. They will evaluate the severity of your cataracts, discuss your medical history, and also make an assessment of your overall eye health. This consultation is crucial to determine if you are a suitable candidate for surgery.
Preoperative Evaluation:
Before the surgery, you will undergo a comprehensive eye exam, including measurements of your eye's shape and size. This information helps the surgeon choose the appropriate intraocular lens (IOL) for your specific needs.
Medication Review:
Inform your eye specialist about all the medications you are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements. Some medications may need to be adjusted or stopped for a while before the surgery.
Follow Fasting Instructions:
You will likely be instructed to stop eating or drinking for a specific period before the surgery. Follow these instructions to reduce the risk of complications during the procedure.
Arrange Transportation:
Since you will not be able to drive immediately after cataract surgery, arrange for someone to drive you on the day of the procedure.
Postoperative Care:
Plan for someone to stay with you for the first 24 hours after surgery to assist with daily activities. Follow your surgeon's postoperative care instructions, which may include using prescribed eye drops and avoiding strenuous activities.
Relax and Stay Positive:
Cataract surgery is a routine and safe procedure, but it's natural to feel nervous. Try to stay relaxed and trust your surgeon's expertise. Focus on the positive outcome that improved vision will bring to your life.
What Happens Before Cataract Surgery?
Consultation with an Ophthalmologist
The journey to cataract surgery typically begins with a consultation with an ophthalmologist, a medical doctor who specializes in eye care. During this initial meeting, the ophthalmologist evaluates the patient's eye health, discusses the severity of the cataract, and explains the surgical process in detail. Patients should ask questions and express any concerns they may have regarding the surgery.
Medical Evaluation
A comprehensive medical evaluation is an integral part of the preparation for cataract surgery. This evaluation includes a medical review of the patient's history and a physical examination, with a particular focus on the eye being treated. The ophthalmologist measures the dimensions of the eye to determine the appropriate power for the artificial intraocular lens (IOL) that will replace the cloudy natural lens.
Medication Review
Patients are advised to provide a complete list of medications they are taking, including over-the-counter drugs and supplements, to their ophthalmologist. Some medicines may be adjusted or temporarily stopped before surgery to reduce the chances of complications.
Pre-operative Instructions
Detailed pre-operative instructions are provided to patients by their surgeon or healthcare team. These instructions often include guidelines for fasting, which typically involves not eating or drinking after midnight on the night before surgery. Following these instructions carefully is crucial to ensure a smooth surgical experience.
Transportation Arrangements
Since cataract surgery is typically an outpatient procedure, patients are required to arrange for someone to drive them home after surgery. The effects of the anesthesia and the temporary loss of clear vision immediately after the procedure make it unsafe for patients to drive themselves.
Comfortable Clothing
Wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing on the surgery day can enhance the patient's comfort during the procedure and recovery.
What Happens During Cataract Surgery?
Anesthesia
Cataract surgery is most commonly performed under local anesthesia. The ophthalmologist administers eye drops or injects a numbing agent around the eye to ensure the patient does not experience any pain during the procedure. In some cases, mild sedation may also be used to help the patient relax. With the eye numb, the patient remains awake but comfortable throughout the surgery.
Sterilization
Before the surgery begins, the surgical area around the eye is thoroughly cleaned and sterilized to minimize the risk of infection. Maintaining a sterile environment is required to ensure the safety and success of the procedure.
Incision
The surgeon makes a small incision in the cornea, which is the clear front surface of the eye. This incision provides access to the lens that needs to be removed and replaced.
Cataract Removal
The surgeon uses one of two primary techniques to remove the cataract: phacoemulsification or extracapsular cataract extraction. - In phacoemulsification, a tiny probe is inserted through the incision, which uses ultrasound waves to break up the cloudy lens into small fragments. These fragments are then suctioned out of the eye. - In extracapsular cataract extraction, a larger incision is made, and the cloudy lens is removed in one piece rather than being fragmented. The method is chosen as per the surgeon's preference and the specifics of the case.
Intraocular Lens (IOL) Implantation
Once the cataract is successfully removed, the surgeon implants an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) to replace it. The IOL is carefully positioned to provide clear vision at a specific distance, such as near, intermediate, or far, depending on the patient's visual needs and the type of IOL chosen.
Closure
The surgeon then closes the incision using tiny sutures or self-sealing techniques, depending on the surgical approach used. These sutures are typically very small and are designed to promote quick healing.
Post-operative Care
After the surgery is done, the patient is transferred to a recovery area where they are monitored for some time to ensure that there are no immediate complications. The ophthalmologist may prescribe eye drops to prevent infection and reduce inflammation in the post-operative period. In summary, cataract surgery is a common and highly successful procedure that can significantly improve a person's vision and quality of life. The preparation before surgery involves a consultation with an ophthalmologist, a medical evaluation, medication review, and following pre-operative instructions carefully. During the surgery itself, the patient is under local anesthesia, and the cloudy cataract is removed and replaced with an artificial intraocular lens. With proper pre-operative and post-operative care, cataract surgery offers a remarkable opportunity to regain clear vision and continue enjoying life with improved eyesight.
Methods/Techniques Used for Performing Cataract Surgery
Phacoemulsification
Phacoemulsification, often referred to as "phaco," is the most common and widely practiced technique for cataract removal. It has become the gold standard in cataract surgery due to its numerous advantages. Here's how it works:
Incision:
A small incision, typically less than 3 millimeters in size, is made in the cornea (the clear front surface of the eye). This small incision results in less trauma to the eye and faster healing.
Ultrasound Waves:
A tiny probe is inserted through the incision. This probe uses ultrasound waves to break up the cloudy lens (cataract) into small fragments. The ultrasound energy emulsifies the cataract material, turning it into a liquid that can be easily removed.
Suction:
The emulsified cataract fragments are gently suctioned out of the eye.
IOL Implantation:
After the cataract is removed, an artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is implanted into the eye. The IOL is carefully positioned to provide clear vision at a specific distance, such as near, intermediate, or far, depending on the patient's needs.
Closure:
The tiny incision is usually self-sealing or requires minimal sutures. This reduces the risk of complications and promotes quicker healing.
Extracapsular Cataract Surgery
Extracapsular cataract surgery is less common today, but it is still employed in specific cases. This technique involves a larger incision and the removal of the cloudy lens in one piece rather than breaking it up into fragments. The steps involved in extracapsular cataract surgery include:
Incision:
A larger incision is made in the cornea or the white part of the eye.
Lens Removal:
The cloudy lens is removed in one piece.
IOL Implantation:
Similar to phacoemulsification, an artificial IOL is implanted to replace the natural lens.
Closure:
The larger incision may require more sutures to close, and healing may take slightly longer compared to phacoemulsification.
Post Procedure Details
Eye Shield
Immediately after the procedure, patients are typically given an eye shield to wear. This shield helps protect the eye from accidental rubbing or pressure during the initial healing phase.
Rest
Rest is essential during the initial post-operative period. Patients are advised to keep their head elevated and avoid strenuous activities for a day or two following surgeries. This helps to minimize the complication risk and supports the healing process.
Eye Drops
Prescribed eye drops play a crucial role in post-operative care. These eye drops are administered to prevent infection, reduce inflammation, and help with overall healing. Patients should follow their surgeon's instructions regarding the frequency and duration of eye drop use.
Vision Improvement
Vision improvement varies from person to person, but many patients experience clearer vision within a few days to weeks after surgery. Some patients may require additional time to adapt to the new intraocular lens.
Adjustments
In some cases, adjustments to the IOL power may be necessary to fine-tune vision. This is particularly relevant when patients opt for multifocal IOLs, which are designed to correct both near and far vision. Follow-up appointments can help assess and address any vision-related issues.
Risks and Complications Associated with Cataract Surgery
Infection
Infection can occur post-surgery and may manifest as redness, pain, or changes in vision. Prompt antibiotic treatment is essential if an infection is suspected.
Swelling and Inflammation
Swelling and inflammation of the eye are common after surgery but are usually temporary. The use of prescribed eye drops helps manage these symptoms.
Retinal Detachment
Although rare, retinal detachment is a severe complication that can occur after cataract surgery. Patients should be vigilant for symptoms like sudden flashes of light or a curtain-like shadow across their field of vision.
Glaucoma
Cataract surgery could increase the risk of developing or worsening glaucoma. Regular follow-ups with the ophthalmologist are essential to monitor intraocular pressure and manage any glaucoma-related issues.
Posterior Capsule Opacification
Sometimes, the posterior capsule, the part of the eye where the IOL is implanted, can become cloudy over time. This condition is called posterior capsule opacification; it can easily be treated with a laser procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy.
Conclusion
cataract surgery offers a reliable and effective solution to restore clear vision for individuals suffering from cataracts. Surgical techniques, such as phacoemulsification and extracapsular cataract surgery, have evolved to provide safer and more efficient procedures. With proper post-operative care and follow-up, most patients can enjoy improved vision and an enhanced quality of life after cataract surgery. While there are potential risks and complications, they are relatively uncommon, and the benefits of clearer vision typically outweigh the risks for the majority of patients.
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DisclaimerThe cost of cataract surgery depends on the following factors: the city, the hospital that is selected, the complexity of the procedure and the room chosen by the patient. The price range mentioned here is an approximation of the surgery cost; Bajaj Finserv Health does not claim that these prices are an exact estimate. For exact information about surgery charges, it is best inquire at the selected hospital.