A cataract is the clouding of the natural lens inside the eye. As the natural lens of the eye becomes cloudy, it does not allow light to pass through it as well as it did when it was transparent. The natural lens is made of a strong, transparent outer covering or capsule filled with a clear gel material. When the gel starts to become cloudy, the incoming light rays are distorted or blocked before reaching the retina at the back of the eye. As the cataract develops, it becomes harder for a person to see

The Procedure

Eyedrops are placed into the eye to numb the surface. A small opening is made through the cornea and in front of the capsule that holds the natural lens. This opening allows the insertion of the phacoemulcification tip to enter the eye. Ultrasound vibrations coming from the tip beak up the cloudy lens into small pieces allowing it to be suctioned or vacuumed from the eye. The outer portion of the lens (capsule) is left behind. The intraocular lens (implant) is folded and passed through the small incision using a thin applicator. The lens is placed inside the capsule where it then unfolds and fills up the space where the natural lens use to occupy. The applicator is removed and the small opening closes on it own. No stitches are needed. Eye drops and ointment are then placed into your eye and you are brought into recovery.

Recovery

You will be given post-op instructions from the Findlay Surgery Center nurse or technician. Some discharge is common and your eye may be sensitive to lights. If you have some slight discomfort you can use a mild pain reliever (Tylenol, Aspirin). If you experience a lot of pain or a decrease in your vision, you should contact our office right away. This is not normal.

During your follow up appointment your physician will check your eye to see how your incision is healing and your eye pressure. You will be given a prescription for eye drops to be used with the drops you started 3 days before surgery.