If you’ve noticed a change in your eyesight, such as blurry vision, light sensitivity or seeing double, it’s possible you may be suffering from cataracts. The good news is that most cataracts can be removed with surgical cataract treatment in Appleton WI. This common surgery may help you see again.
Is Treatment Necessary?
Cataracts do not go away on their own. In many instances, the condition will only continue to worsen over time. If the cataracts are still mild, your doctor may take a watch and wait for approach before beginning cataract treatment in Appleton WI. However, if the cataracts are bothersome, it’s best to have them removed.
Many people are apprehensive about treatment because it involves a surgical procedure. It’s important to note, however, that cataract removal surgery is an outpatient procedure. In most cases, the surgery takes under an hour, from start to finish. Patients remain an additional 30 minutes following surgery for observation.
What Happens During Surgery?
The goal of surgery is to fully remove a cataract. Since the cataract is located on the lens of the affected eye, it’s necessary to remove the entire lens. Your ophthalmologist will replace the original lens with a clear, artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens.
While this procedure sounds invasive, it only requires a couple of very tiny incisions. Your eye will be completely numbed with special eye drops so that you won’t feel a thing. Patients remain fully awake and conscious during the entire surgery.
How Long Is Recovery?
Many patients report improvement in their vision almost immediately after cataract surgery. Some patients may experience blurry or wavy vision, but this should subside within an hour. Vision should be its sharpest one to two weeks following surgery.
Dry eyes and soreness are common following surgery. Your doctor will prescribe eye drops to alleviate any discomfort. Be sure to use them as directed. Most patients are considered fully recovered after a month.
Changes in your vision should never be ignored. Be sure to visit your ophthalmologist if you notice something different about your eyesight. It’s important for all adults to have yearly eye exams. Contact us if you’re ready to schedule your yearly appointment.
