Cataracts can have life-changing impacts on those who have them. The initial development of cataracts can be hard to detect because it can cause just minimal disruption to your everyday life. But vision loss can happen over time. In this case, you should consider advanced cataract surgery rapid city. These days, this advanced surgery has become the standard of care to remove cataracts. 

Cataract Treatments

When the symptoms of cataracts are discovered early, they can be mitigated using contact lenses and eyeglasses, lifestyle changes, and improved lighting. But cataracts will progress continuously and require surgery no matter what you do to try to slow down their development. 

If your cataract has started to impede your vision and disrupt your daily activities, you must seek cataract removal. Cataract surgery is performed to remove the affected clouded lens and replace it with a clear artificial lens called an intraocular lens. This replacement lens will restore your vision. 

Traditional Treatment for Cataracts

Traditional cataract surgery involves creating an incision on the cornea’s side, so the surgeon can access and remove the clouded lens. A tiny probe is inserted to emit ultrasound waves and break up the lens apart, allowing for easy removal. Through the incision, an IOL is inserted to replace the compromised natural lens, restoring your visual clarity. The small incision may not necessitate sutures and may allow the tissue to heal itself easily.

Advanced Laser-Assisted Cataract Removal

Because of a femtosecond laser, cataract surgery is now performed without using a blade. Advanced cataract surgery is computer-controlled, which helps protect and automate the difficult stages of conventional cataract surgery. The advanced procedure also involves making an incision on one side of your cornea, but this time using the laser. The incision is smaller and more precise the traditional surgery, reducing your risk of complications.  

Through a femtosecond laser, the cataract is softened before removal. The procedure uses near-infrared light to break down the cataract’s internal structure. Once the impacted lens is removed, an IOL is inserted to replace the natural lens. 

What Happens After Surgery

Surgery to remove a cataract is short with little downtime. After the procedure, you must have a ride home since you cannot safely drive. You can expect your eyes to feel dry or scratchy following the procedure. Also, light sensitivity may be felt. While you may experience blurry vision, this will return fully in 2-3 days. During such a period, you must avoid unnecessary injury or strain and follow the orders of your doctor. Then, you will have to see your doctor for a follow-up appointment in the weeks after your surgery.