Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is one of the safest and most commonly performed surgical procedures in the world. The cloudy natural lens of the eye is removed using a technique called phacoemulsification — ultrasound energy breaks the lens into tiny fragments that are suctioned out. A clear artificial intraocular lens (IOL) is then implanted to restore sharp vision. Modern premium IOLs can also correct astigmatism and reduce dependence on reading glasses. At Iswarya Hospital the procedure takes about 15–20 minutes per eye under local anaesthetic drops.
🔬 How the Procedure Is Performed
- 1
Anaesthetic drops are applied to numb the eye; no injection is usually needed.
- 2
A micro-incision (2–3 mm) is made at the edge of the cornea.
- 3
A circular opening is made in the lens capsule (capsulorhexis).
- 4
An ultrasound probe (phaco tip) breaks the cataract into tiny pieces and removes them.
- 5
A foldable intraocular lens (IOL) is inserted through the same small incision and unfolds in place.
- 6
The incision is self-sealing — no sutures are usually needed.
✅ Benefits of Cataract Surgery
- ✓Dramatic improvement in visual clarity and colour perception
- ✓Quick, painless procedure under eye drops alone
- ✓No stitches — rapid healing
- ✓Premium IOLs can correct reading and distance vision simultaneously
- ✓Highly successful — over 98% of patients achieve good vision without serious complications
📋 How to Prepare
- Pre-operative eye examination including biometry (A-scan) to calculate the correct IOL power.
- Use prescribed antibiotic and anti-inflammatory eye drops starting 3 days before surgery.
- Fast for 4–6 hours before the procedure.
- Arrange for someone to drive you home and assist you the first night.
- Avoid wearing eye makeup or perfume on the day of surgery.
⚠️ Possible Risks & Side Effects
- Posterior capsule opacification (secondary cataract) — treatable with a quick laser procedure
- Infection inside the eye (endophthalmitis) — very rare but serious
- Cystoid macular oedema causing blurred central vision
- Raised intraocular pressure in the first days after surgery
- Rarely, posterior capsule rupture requiring additional measures
Your surgeon will discuss all risks with you before the procedure and take appropriate precautions to minimise them.
💊 Post-Procedure Care
- Use prescribed antibiotic and steroid eye drops for 4 weeks as directed.
- Wear the eye shield at night for the first week.
- Avoid swimming, dusty environments, and rubbing the eye for 4 weeks.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors to protect the healing eye.
- Attend follow-up visits on day 1, week 1, and 1 month post-surgery.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to stay in hospital overnight?
No. Cataract surgery is a day procedure. You can go home within 1–2 hours after the operation.
When can I read and watch TV after surgery?
Most patients can read and watch TV the day after surgery, though vision may be slightly blurry for 1–2 weeks while the eye heals.
Can both eyes be operated on the same day?
At Iswarya Hospital, we operate one eye at a time (typically a few weeks apart) for safety.
Will I still need glasses after cataract surgery?
With a standard IOL, most patients need reading glasses. Premium multifocal or trifocal IOLs reduce or eliminate the need for spectacles for both distance and near.
ℹ️ This information is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individual treatment plans may vary. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any medical decisions.