Cataract surgery is currently one of the most common and successful surgical procedures. In cataract surgery, the natural lens of the eye, which has become cloudy, is replaced with a transparent artificial lens. The technique commonly used for cataract surgery today is phacoemulsification. In this technique, ultrasound waves are used to break up the lens.
The instrument used to break up the lens is thin and enters the eye through an incision of about 3 millimeters. Since this incision is very small, stitches are usually not required, and it heals on its own. After removing the cloudy lens, a clear artificial lens is inserted into the eye and fixed in the appropriate place. The surgery typically lasts around 10 to 15 minutes and is usually performed under local anesthesia or general anesthesia.
Surgery is generally performed when cataracts cause a decrease in vision that interferes with daily activities.

• • • • The patient is usually asked to visit the doctor on the same day or the following day for a check-up and dressing removal.

      • Depending on the type of surgery and the doctor’s decision, the patient may be instructed to use a plastic shield, especially while sleeping. The shield is washable; wash it daily with soap and water, and after drying, place it on the eye using an elastic band or tape. During the day, sunglasses can be used.

      • Eye drops and oral medications are prescribed to the patient, and based on the doctor’s recommendation, these medications are gradually discontinued over a month. Medications should be used as directed.

      • To relieve pain, take the prescribed painkillers according to the doctor’s instructions.

      • In the first few weeks after surgery, the patient should not rub their eyes. They should also avoid applying pressure to the eyes. Never clean the eyes with rough fabrics or paper towels, as this could scratch the cornea.

      • On the day of surgery or the following day, you can resume your regular activities, such as reading books and watching TV. However, to evaluate your vision and determine the prescription for new glasses, you should wait 3 to 4 weeks. Consult your doctor about when to start driving.

      • Ask your doctor about showering, but you can wash the body, excluding the head and face, starting from the first day after surgery.

      • When washing your head and face (according to your doctor’s guidance), keep your eyes closed and do not apply pressure to the eyelids. Use baby shampoo and soap regularly.

      • Avoid using cosmetics (such as eyeliner, mascara, false eyelashes, etc.). Ask your doctor when it is safe to resume using them.

      • You can pray from the first day using either dry ablution (Tayammum) or ablution with a bandage, but avoid prostration for a week. Use your hand to bring the prayer mat close to your forehead.

      • There is no need to change your diet after surgery. Just prevent constipation by eating enough fruits, vegetables, and drinking plenty of water. Avoid foods that cause gas.

      • Neither cold nor hot weather will harm the operated eye.

      • If you experience eye pain, redness, sensitivity to light, vision loss, or pus discharge, immediately consult your doctor. If you cannot reach your surgeon, go to an emergency eye clinic.

      • After cataract surgery, follow-up exams are necessary. During these visits, the ophthalmologist will assess the results of the surgery and reassure you about the ongoing recovery of the eye.

• • • • Although cataract surgery is one of the least complicated surgeries, problems can occasionally arise. These complications can range from vision loss to mild inflammation. Vision loss is very rare, but it can occur due to inflammation, bleeding during surgery, or retinal detachment, which may happen months or even years after surgery. Most complications are minor, such as corneal or retinal swelling, increased intraocular pressure, and eyelid inflammation, which can be treated with medication.

The retina is the innermost layer of the eye and contains light receptors and neurons. This thin layer covers 75% of the inner surface of the eyeball.
The retina includes two types of cells: cone cells, which are responsible for color vision, and rod cells, which are responsible for vision in low light. The macula is a part of the retina located along the optical axis of the eye and plays a role in visual accuracy and sharpness.

• • • After light enters the eye and passes through the lens, it eventually reaches the retina. The retina acts like the film in a camera. When light rays hit the retina, they are converted into neural signals and sent to the brain, where they are interpreted, allowing the eye to see.

• • • • Vitrectomy is a type of eye surgery used to treat certain retinal and vitreous disorders. The vitreous is a transparent, gel-like substance that fills the middle of the eye. Vitrectomy surgery often improves or stabilizes vision.
        During this surgery, the vitreous is removed and typically replaced with a solution.

• • • • The following symptoms usually occur in one eye but may affect both eyes:

        • Flashing lights in the field of vision
        • Blurred vision
        • Wavy or distorted images (sometimes)
        • Blind spots
        • Sudden vision loss

Any pressure on the spine can cause damage. Lifting heavy objects, improper sitting postures, and keeping the head down for extended periods can contribute to cervical disc herniation. Individuals with neck stiffness are at a higher risk of developing this condition.

• • • Patients with cervical disc herniation often experience joint pain, burning sensations, numbness, or tingling in the hands. The location of the pain varies depending on which disc is herniated and which nerve is affected.

• • • • When reading, keep your reading material elevated. Stand up every 30 minutes while working.

      • Do not lift objects weighing more than one kilogram. Keep objects close to your body when lifting them.

      • Walking is allowed starting the day after surgery, and activity levels should gradually increase based on tolerance.

      • Avoid using your mobile phone unless necessary.

      • While driving and sleeping, use a soft foam cervical collar. Rest on a firm mattress with an orthopedic pillow at a height that aligns the head and neck with the body. Both prolonged immobility and excessive activity that strains the muscles can be harmful.

      • Never sleep on your stomach. When getting out of bed, first turn onto your side, then lower your legs off the bed, sit up, and stand. Follow the reverse steps when lying down. You can support your head with one hand while changing positions to reduce pressure on the neck.

      • Avoid exposing the wound to water for at least five days after surgery.

      • Postoperative pain at the surgical site is normal for several weeks. If radiating pain in the arms has decreased or improved, it indicates a successful surgery. The surgical site pain will gradually subside. However, tingling in the hands may persist from before the surgery or appear after surgery, requiring one to two months for improvement.

• • • • Take your medications as prescribed. If you are taking anti-inflammatory drugs, take them with food, and inform your doctor if you experience blurred vision or ringing in the ears.

      • Consult your doctor before starting physical therapy or exercise.

      • Perform prayers while seated at a desk, raising the prayer stone to your forehead.

      • Eat foods rich in vitamin C and protein

• • • • Driving, standing, or sitting for more than 30 minutes at a time.

      • Bending your neck. If necessary, straighten it periodically. Adjust your chair height or raise your desk to avoid excessive neck flexion.

      • Wearing inappropriate footwear; use shoes with medium-height heels

• • • • 1. Take your medications on time.

        2. Check the movement, sensation, and color of fingers and toes, especially the hands.

        3. Use a chair when sitting.

        4. Consume milk and dairy products.

        5. Use a Western-style toilet and prevent constipation.

        6. Keep the stitches clean and dry, covering them with a dressing. Change the dressing daily.

        7. After cervical disc surgery, wear a cervical collar continuously for six weeks.

        8. Avoid bending the neck forward or backward and refrain from rotating it.

        9. Avoid sleeping on your stomach. Keep your head in a stable position and refrain from using too many pillows, as they may cause unintended neck bending.

        10. Contact your doctor immediately if you experience any of the following symptoms:

        • Fever

        • Chills

        • Redness or discharge from the surgical site

        • Increased pain

        11. Wash your neck twice a day with mild soap.

        12. Always wear your cervical collar unless advised otherwise by your doctor. When removing it, keep your neck stable.

        13. Avoid driving until permitted by your doctor. Refrain from long car trips, as the vibrations can negatively affect the spinal cord.

        14. When looking from side to side, move your entire upper body along with your neck. The neck should always remain in a stable position.

• • • • Any discharge from the surgical site

      • Unusual swelling at the surgical site, hands, or feet

      • Persistent fever for more than two days

      • Severe headache

      • Allergic reactions to medication, such as itching, redness, or gastrointestinal symptoms

      • Difficulty urinating or loss of bladder control

      • Severe and progressive arm pain, especially if accompanied by weakness or difficulty walking

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Fixation means stabilizing the vertebrae of the spine using screws and plates to reduce pain and improve movement.

If the vertebrae in your back or neck have issues and their movement causes pain, your doctor may recommend spinal fixation surgery.

• • • Reduces pain and pressure on the nerves
    • Improves movement and function of the back or neck
    • Prevents the spinal condition from worsening

• • • Before Surgery:

      • Eat a light meal and avoid eating anything 8 hours before the surgery.
      • Complete all necessary tests and imaging.
      • Inform your doctor if you are taking any medications.

• • • After Surgery:

      • Rest, but stay active: Start walking gradually in the first few days to prevent muscle weakness.
      • Sleeping position: Lie down with your knees slightly bent.
      • Avoid lifting heavy objects!
      • Wear a brace or neck collar (if prescribed by your doctor).
      • Physical therapy: Specific exercises will help you recover faster over time.

• • • If you experience any of the following, contact your doctor immediately:

      • Severe and unbearable pain
      • Significant numbness or weakness in the arms or legs
      • High fever or abnormal discharge from the surgical site

• • • • After a few months, you can gradually return to daily activities.
      • Light exercises like walking and swimming help strengthen the back.
      • Intense activities like weightlifting are prohibited unless approved by your doctor.