Cataracts

Local anesthesia keeps the eye comfortable and immobile during cataract surgery. The entire procedure usually lasts less than half an hour, during which you may see light, hear noises, and be aware of the presence of the surgical team. However, you... Full Answer

Bleeding within the eye is a potential problem during and after cataract surgery. This rarely occurs in phacoemulsification procedures -- the most commonly used technique for cataract surgery, which requires only a tiny incision that often needs no... Full Answer

Once at home after cataract surgery, you will use antibiotic and cortisone drops or ointment, as well as a nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug, to prevent infection and reduce inflammation. To prevent infections, wash your hands thoroughly before... Full Answer

An eye doctor, usually an ophthalmologist, starts by taking a complete medical history. Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and determine if you are at risk for cataracts-for example, if you are over age 40 or have diabetes. Next the physician... Full Answer

Cataracts are actually quite common. In fact, cataracts are the number one cause of blindness in the world. Nearly one out of every five people ages 65 to 74 has cataracts, and nearly one out of every two people older than 74 has them. The good news is... Full Answer

More than 1.8 million people have cataract surgery each year in the United States, and more than 95 percent of those surgeries are performed with no complications. During cataract surgery, which is usually performed under local or topical anesthesia as... Full Answer

There are many factors that go into the final visual result of cataract surgery. Some people experience a very rapid recovery of their vision, and others may take a few weeks or more to achieve their best post-operative vision. Full Answer

There have been major advances in surgical options for cataract patients. Many years ago, "traditional" cataract implants only partially corrected vision after surgery. Previously, cataract patients usually had to wear glasses for distance vision and... Full Answer

Cataract removal is one of the most common, safe and effective operations performed in the United States.  Although most cataracts are related to aging, there are steps you can take to reduce your chances of developing them. Since cataracts can... Full Answer

Before cataract surgery, inform your eye surgeon if you take or have ever taken an alpha blocker. Alpha blockers, which include alfuzosin (Uroxatral), doxazosin (Cardura), silodosin (Rapaflo), tamsulosin (Flomax), and terazosin (Hytrin), are used mainly... Full Answer