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Types of cataract implants
There are many types of cataract implants used to correct vision after cataract surgery. The type of cataract implant used will be based on the lifestyle and activities of the patient after cataract surgery, and one that will yield the best results. These different types of cataract implants include;- Mono-focal Cataract Implant: which are the most basic and common type of cataract implant. However, it can only correct distance vision, and glasses will still be required to see arm’s length or read close up.
- Multifocal Cataract Implant: Similar to glasses with bifocal or progressive lenses, multifocal cataract implant has different focusing areas with different focusing strengths that help see things at different distances. It may, however, take several months for the brain to adapt and for the vision to seem natural. It also sometimes cause more halos or glare around lights than a mono-focal lens.
- Accommodating Implant: This has a single focusing strength but it is flexible enough to act more like a natural lens and focuses more than one distance, far and near. With this, it is less likely to need reading glasses.
- Toric Implant: This is used to correct astigmatism or a cornea that’s rather football-shaped than round. This, however, makes vision blurry all over, both up close and far away. This lens helps lessen astigmatism and there won’t be need for glasses for correction after surgery.
Functions of cataract implants
Cataract implants provide three main functions of the natural human lens.- It is transparent enough to allow external light and images to focus onto the retina.
- It acts as a structural barrier between the vitreous gel behind it and the clear fluid-filled chamber in its front.
- It provides the necessary focusing power.
Cataract implant procedure
The first step in a cataract implant procedure is to place eye drops in the eye to dilate the pupil. After which local anesthesia is given to numb the area. A sedative may also be given to help relax. The clouded lens is then removed; either with an ultrasound probe that breaks up the lens, or a through an incision in the eye that removes the lens as a whole. A clear artificial lens is then implanted to replace the one removed, and the cut is allowed to heal by itself.Recovery from cataract implants
Vision may appear blurry at first as the eye heals and adjusts. However, there should be improvement within few days. Colors may appear brighter than normal after the surgery. It’s okay to feel itching and mild discomfort in the eyes for a couple of days after surgery. However, you must not rub or push the eye, as the discomfort will disappear naturally after a couple of days. Complete healing takes 8 to 12 weeks.Follow up care
- Protect your eye with sunglasses as much as possible.
- Sleep with an eye-protective shield at night during the recovery period.
- Don’t ever rub your eyes no matter what.
- Use medicated eye drops as a prescribed doctor. This helps the eye to heal and may last for several weeks.
- Avoid most exercise or heavy lifting until you get clearance from the doctor.
Symptoms
• Louded, blurred or dim vision.
• Increasing difficulty with vision at night.
• Sensitivity to light and glare.
• Need for brighter light for reading and other activities.
• Seeing “halos” around lights.
• Frequent changes in eyeglass or contact lens prescription.
• Fading or yellowing of colors.
Causes
Most cataracts develop when aging or injury changes the tissue that makes up your eye's lens. Some inherited genetic disorders that cause other health problems can increase your risk of cataracts. Cataracts can also be caused by other eye conditions, past eye surgery or medical conditions such as diabetes.
FAQ
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