what is small incision cataract surgery?
As the eye ages, proteins in the eye's natural lens break down and cause the lens to appear cloudy. This leads vision to be blurry and bright colors to appear dull or yellow. This breakdown of the eye's natural lens is referred to as cataracts. Cataracts usually develop slowly over time but can develop faster in people with diabetes or people who smoke. Currently, the only treatment for cataracts is cataract surgery. At Precision Surgery Center of Napa Valley, our experienced ophthalmologists perform small incision cataract surgery to get patients back to seeing clearly again. If you are searching for an eye surgeon who performs cataract surgery in Napa, CA, please contact our surgical facility to schedule a consultation.
What are the benefits of cataract surgery?
One of the main benefits of small incision cataract surgery is that it can successfully restore vision in a majority of our Napa Valley, CA patients. The small incision allows for a quicker healing time — so you can get back to your regular routine within a few weeks. It is a safeguard to protect your eye health down the line. Cataracts can result in eye inflammation and increased eye pressure. Dealing with cataracts earlier can prevent complications and protect your vision. As a cost-effective option, it comes at a smaller price tag than alternative treatments. It is a painless, quick option that can offer significant improvements that can be seen days after your cataract procedure. In addition, it is an outpatient procedure, meaning that you can recover in the comfort of your own home. For additional information, contact our eye specialists about cataract surgery in Napa, CA.
Who are the Candidates for Cataract Surgery?
Candidates for cataract surgery usually have cataracts in one or both eyes and are in good general and ocular health otherwise. Prior to your procedure, you should have a thorough consultation with your cataract surgeon in Napa, CA so that you can give us a complete picture of your medical history while we discuss the risks and benefits of surgery. If you have additional eye conditions such as glaucoma, you should inform your cataract specialist of this during your consultation.
What Are the Symptoms of Cataracts?
Cataract symptoms will vary from person to person. There are several identifiable symptoms of cataracts, including:
- Double vision
- Colors appearing faded
- Cloudy or blurry vision
- Lights give off the appearance of a halo or glare
- Poor night vision
- Distorted vision in either eye
- Increased nearsightedness
How Is Cataract Surgery Performed?
Before beginning cataract treatment, your experienced ophthalmologist will measure your eyes to obtain the correct intraocular lens (IOL) focusing power — so you are fitted with the best lens for your vision. Small incision cataract surgery is performed as an outpatient procedure at Precision Surgery Center of Napa Valley. You will be given eye drops or an injection to numb your eye and fitted with a special device to keep your eye open. Patients are usually awake during surgery but unable to feel pain or see anything. Once you are ready and comfortable, the ophthalmologist will create small incisions near your cornea. With tiny, precise instruments, your cataract specialist will remove the clouded natural lens and put the IOL into place. When the surgery is complete, you will be given thorough aftercare instructions that will aid in healing. Within 24 hours of your surgery, you will meet with your ophthalmologist at Precision Surgery Center of Napa Valley for a post-op appointment.
What Can I Expect During Cataract Surgery Recovery?
After your cataract surgery at our Napa, CA surgical center, your eyes might feel uncomfortable. It's important not to scratch them as itchy as they may feel. You may experience some blurriness or double vision after your treatment, but don't worry, this will fade within a few hours. You can also expect your eyes to be a bit more watery than normal for the first few days. You should notice pain or discomfort starting to diminish after a few days, and you should start seeing better after about three days. We may prescribe eye drops to help with the pain. If you need new glasses, we'll have you wait and order them once you've completely healed. Throughout your recovery process, please don't hesitate to call with any questions or concerns — we're here to help!
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Cataract Surgery FAQ
Are you awake for cataract surgery?
Patients are typically awake for their cataract surgery in Napa, CA. Prior to the procedure, you will be given sedation medication to ensure you remain comfortable during your surgery.
Does cataract surgery hurt?
You should not experience any significant discomfort during your cataract treatment. You will be under mild sedation, and your eyes will be numbed with anesthetic eye drops prior to beginning your procedure.
What should I avoid following cataract surgery?
After your cataract surgery, we suggest you avoid strenuous work — this may include exercise or housework. We also ask that you don't wear makeup for about four weeks and you should avoid getting soap or shampoo in your eye. You should not start driving until we give you the all-clear after a follow-up appointment.
Experience Clearer Vision
At Precision Surgery Center of Napa Valley, our mission is to enhance your eyesight and overall eye health. All of us are here to make sure you get whatever kind of eye care you might need. If you have cataracts or are experiencing the typical symptoms, call our Napa, CA center to plan an evaluation with our cataract specialist, and explore this amazing, sight-saving surgery.