Cataracts Treatment

Unfortunately, when it comes to the condition of cataracts there is no cure and no other treatment option except surgery that is typically only performed when the loss of vision becomes significant enough to interfere with everyday activities or is needed in order to effectively treat another eye condition.

In most cases the decision of whether or not to perform cataract surgery is left up to the patient to decide based on their vision requirements as visual demand may be higher for some individuals due to their occupation or other activities. 

Extracapsular Cataract Extraction 

Extracapsular cataract extraction is one of the most common surgeries performed to remove cataracts. This type of surgery is typically performed under local anesthesia and can be done on an out patient basis in a relatively short amount of time that is less than one hour in most cases.

After a small incision the cataract is removed along with the front part of the lens leaving the back of the lens or posterior capsule in place and an IOL or intraocular lens implant - which is a replacement lens - can then be implanted. The most common type of extracapsular cataract extraction used in the removal of cataracts is phacoemulsification. 

Phacoemulsification Surgery 

Phacoemulsification utilizes sound waves or ultrasound to soften and "break up" or "emulsify" the cataract and lens. This surgery is performed utilizing an ultrasonic probe and the particles of the cataract and lens are removed by suction with the attachment on the tip of the probe.

This type of surgery typically requires no stitches as opposed to some of the other cataract surgery procedures and is quicker when it comes to the restoration of vision. This type of surgery is very successful in restoring vision to the majority of individuals who have this procedure.