Essential Information About Cataract Surgery Orange County Residents Need To Know

By Andrea Davidson


Proper vision is a gift that must be guarded, nurtured and cherished throughout the life of an individual. This can be achieved by frequent vision screenings and periodic visual exams. A common condition that interferes with the ability to see properly is the presence of cataracts. A cataract surgery is necessary to rectify this problem. It is performed on an outpatient basis by medical specialist known as ophthalmologists. The damaged lens is usually removed and replaced with an artificial lens that is clear and transparent. To offer better services in cataract surgery Orange County based hospitals have adopted the latest technology in this field.

There are certain symptoms that may be used to detect the presence of cataracts. These include faded colors, poor night vision, blurry or cloudy vision, double vision and frequent changes in the strength of contact lenses or eye glasses prescribed. These conditions can also indicate the existence of other eye problems. Diagnostic tests include visual acuity test, tonometry and dilated eye exam.

In its early stages, the symptoms of this condition may be improved with magnifying glasses, new eye glasses, anti-glare sunglasses or brighter lighting. If these measures fail, cataract surgery is the only effective solution. Ophthalmologists examine the patients and brief on various things about procedure. These include the alternatives, benefits, risks and expected results. If the surgery is delayed, cataracts may cause permanent damage to the eye.

Prior to the surgery, a comprehensive eye scan is performed to evaluate the structure and the overall health of the eye. It also helps to identify risk factors and any conditions that may limit the candidacy of the patient for the operation. Ophthalmologists perform refraction to measure the exact farsightedness, nearsightedness and astigmatism. Other measurements include the length and curvature of the eye.

This procedure takes a short time. The time taken to recover is very short and the patients are able to resume work after a single day. The session lasts for about 30 minutes and the results are immediate. Surgeries involving two eyes are preformed separately.

There has been significant growth in the field of cataract surgery. A more advanced surgical procedure known as phacoemulsification has now emerged. This procedure uses radiation of high frequency to split the cloudy eye lens into fine pieces. These pieces are then removed through suction techniques. There are several advantages associated with this technique. The incisions made are smaller which reduces recovery period and reduces chances of complications.

This is a safe procedure and the risks are very rare. However, there are conditions that may increase the risk of complications. Children are at a greater risk. Medical conditions that increase the possibility of complications include diabetic retinopathy, myopia and advanced glaucoma. Individuals who have used certain drugs are prone to complications. The complications that may occur include cornea injuries, inflammation, infection and retinal detachment.

After cataract surgery Orange County residents are advised to take certain precautions to promote faster healing. Some of the things to be avoided include strenuous activities, heavy lifting, bending and physical exercises. It is also important to avoid coming into contact with contaminants such as grime, dirt and water which may cause infections.




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