What is a Removal of Lens Opacity (Cataract)?

A cataract is a natural cloudiness in the lens of the eye that causes clouded vision. During a Removal of Lens Opacity (Cataract), a surgeon will remove the cloudy, opaque lens and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens.

Why would I get a Removal of Lens Opacity (Cataract)?

Age-related cataracts are a common eye condition affecting people over the age of 40, and typically worsen with age. People may also develop cataracts due to a longtime of exposure to UV light, high amounts of radiation, certain eye injuries, or exposure to certain medications over long periods of time.

What happens during a Removal of Lens Opacity (Cataract)?

The primary goal of the procedure is to remove the cloudy, opaque lens and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens. It is typically done as an outpatient procedure and typically does not take more than an hour. During the procedure, the patient will receive a local or topical anesthetic to numb the area around the eye. The surgeon then makes a tiny incision and uses specialized tools to break up and remove the cataract. Then they will insert the intraocular lens and close the incision.

What to expect after a Removal of Lens Opacity (Cataract)?

Immediately after the procedure, the patient’s vision will be blurry and hazy for a few days. Vision should gradually improve over the course of a few weeks. After the procedure, the patient will need to take eye drops for a few weeks to prevent infection and can expect some discomfort, redness, or swelling.

Conclusion

A Removal of Lens Opacity (Cataract) is a safe and effective surgical procedure that is performed in order to remove the cloudy, opaque lens in the eye and replace it with an artificial intraocular lens. The procedure is simple and can be completed quickly. Vision will be blurry for a few days after the procedure, but should gradually improve over the course of a few weeks.