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.