Cataract Surgery
Click here to learn everything you need to know about CATARACTS.
Cataract surgery THEN:
Some of us can still recall the way cataract surgery was done in our parents’ and grandparents’ day: the hospital stay, the sandbagging, and the lengthy recovery time…and don’t forget the “coke bottle” glasses they had to wear for the rest of their lives.
Cataract surgery NOW:
The more than three million people who will have cataracts removed this year are fortunate to live at a time when cataract correction is so very convenient, safe, and comfortable.
Modern Cataract Surgery is…
- CONVENIENT: Cataract surgery is performed on an outpatient basis at MUSC Storm Eye Ambulatory Procedure Center, a state-of-the-art, hospital-based ambulatory procedure facility, where patients experience an intimate, pleasant atmosphere.
- SAFE: Our doctors perform the procedure under the high magnification of a microscope, using small instruments and ultrasound energy.
- COMFORTABLE: Anesthetic drops are used to numb the eye, and modern techniques mean NO stitches or patches are necessary in most cases.
- EFFECTIVE: Patients experience an almost immediate improvement in vision and a speedy recovery time.
- STATE-OF-THE-ART: We offer premium replacement lens implants based on advanced technology.
- AFFORDABLE: We gladly accept Medicare assignment.
What actually happens during CATARACT SURGERY?
The idea behind modern cataract surgery is quite simple: the surgeon removes the clouded natural lens from the eye and replaces it with a clear lens implant, called an “IOL” (IntraOcular Lens), that takes over the job of focusing light that enters the eye. Our surgeons remove cataracts on an outpatient basis at MUSC Storm Eye Ambulatory Procedure Center, a convenient, state-of-the-art, hospital-based ambulatory procedure facility. No hospital stay is required.
In preparation, your doctor will examine your eyes and prescribe the IOL that will provide an appropriate level of focusing power.
On the day of surgery, you may be given medication to help you relax, and drops will be placed in your eye. A local anesthetic is used, and you will remain quite comfortable during the surgery. To prevent infection, the skin surrounding your eye will be cleaned, and strict precautions are observed to maintain a sterile environment.
Your doctor will use a microscope throughout the procedure. Only a very small (1/8 inch) incision is necessary because he will use ultrasound energy to break up the clouded lens, making it easy to remove. Your doctor will then implant an IOL in its place. No stitches are needed because the incision closes naturally.
The entire process is quick and may be finished in as little as 15 minutes. You will be taken to the recovery area, and after a short stay, you will be allowed to return home with your designated driver (you will NOT be allowed to drive yourself home).
Most patients experience better vision within just a few days. More than 99 percent of patients who undergo cataract surgery rank their vision as significantly improved.
Learn about premium replacement lens implants that may reduce your dependence on reading glasses and bifocals after cataract surgery.