If you are contemplating surgery to improve your vision, you now have choices – in how the surgery is performed and in what type of lens to implant at the time of surgery. At Putnoi Eye Care, we use only the latest technology and techniques for the correction of cataracts, maximizing both comfort and results for our patients. Dr. Putnoi will discuss which options are appropriate for your surgery.
What Are Cataracts?
How Will Surgery Affect My Vision?
The goal of cataract surgery is to correct the decreased vision that was caused by the cataract. During the surgery, the ophthalmologist (eye surgeon) removes the cataract and puts in a new artificial lens called an intraocular lens or IOL. The IOL will be left in the eye permanently.
How well you see after depends on the underlying health of your eye. Some people still need to wear glasses or contact lens after cataract surgery for either near and/or distance vision and astigmatism.
Examination Prior to Surgery
Prior to scheduling your surgery, your surgeon will conduct a complete eye examination including dilation. The overall health of your eye is assessed. The surgeon will discuss the expectations for surgery for your specific eye. This includes the risks for complications for your specific eye and your expected vision level after surgery given the overall health of your eye. Measurements of your eye will be done to chose the lens that will be inserted into your eye during surgery. Your surgeon will discuss the lens options which are appropriate for you.
Procedure
An incision, or opening, is made in the eye. The natural lens in your eye is removed. There are two ways to soften and remove the lens; by ultrasound power (phacoemulsification) and by femtosecond laser. After the natural lens is removed, in most cases an artificial lens is implanted.
At the end of the case, the valved incision closes and usually does not require sutures.
Anesthesia
Light sedation is administered by the anesthesiologist. In addition, eye drops are given to numb the eye and an injection of local anesthesia may be given around the eye. You will be very relaxed and in no discomfort.
Surgisite Boston
Dr. Putnoi performs laser and cataract surgery at SurgiSite Boston. This is a state-of-the-art out-patient surgical center which opened in April 2006 and serves the patients of over 70 local ophthalmologists. It is located on Route 117 between Waltham and Weston just off Route 128. The staff at SurgiSite take pride in offering the latest medical technology in an efficient and friendly environment.
Postoperative Care
Your surgeon will follow you at regular intervals the first month after surgery. You will be using eye drop medications during that time to promote healing of your eye. In most cases, you can resume regular activities within 2-3 days after surgery. Heavy exercise and swimming may be resumed at 7-10 days after surgery. Once the eye is completely healed (usually at one month), you are assessed to see if you need eyeglasses of any type.
