Cataracts are one of the most prevalent eye disorders in the world, resulting in millions of people affected globally, predominantly older adults, particularly those over 50 years of age. Fortunately, healthcare advancements have provided us with simpler and safer methods of treating cataracts, and faster access to treatment through daycare cataract surgery - the ability to have the cataract surgery done, and go home, on the same day! In this article, we will look at daycare cataract surgery, the benefits, and recovery advice, as to why its becoming the treatment of choice for patients.
What is Daycare Cataract Surgery?
Daycare cataract surgery is a minimally invasive eye procedure to replace the cloudy natural lens of the eye with a clear, artificial lens called an intraocular lens (IOL). Unlike previous methods of surgery requiring the likelihood of a hospital overnight stay, the procedure provides an opportunity for patients to go home after a few hours of completion. Daycare cataract surgery techniques have become available due to:
- Surgical techniques using micro-incisions
- Phacoemulsification techniques
- Topical or local anaesthesia instead of general anaesthesia
- Rapid healing intraocular lenses
Key Benefits of Daycare Cataract Surgery
There are many benefits of daycare cataract surgery compared to conventional methods:
- Same-Day Discharge – You will not have to spend overnight in hospital and can return home in a few hours time.
- Faster Recovery – Small incisions heal quickly, and therefore less downtimes.
- Minimal Pain and Discomfort – Advanced techniques reduce trauma to the eye.
- Lower Risk of Infection – Minimal hospital stay reduces risk of exposing yourself to infection.
- Cost Effective – Saves money and valuable IPC time related to overnight hospital admissions.
- Fast Visual Improvement – Many patients observe clearer vision within 24 to 48 hours.
- Safe for Elderly Patients – Use of local anaesthetic eliminates the risks associated with general.
Fast Recovery Tips After Daycare Cataract Surgery
Daycare cataract surgery allows patients to return to their home quickly. That is a good thing. However, to ensure a smooth recovery and the best results, proper aftercare is important. Here are some important steps to follow:
- Follow your doctor’s orders - Take your drops and medications as directed.
- Protect the eye - Wear glasses or an eye shield to prevent rubbing of the eye (especially while sleeping).
- Do not exert yourself - To protect your eye, do not lift heavy things, bend forward (too much), or do vigorous exercise for at least one week.
- Keep it clean - Before you touch your eye, make sure your hands are clean. Do not touch or rub your eyes.
- Avoid dusty situations - Try to avoid dust, smoke, or polluted air in general.
- Do not drive right away - Wait for your doctor to tell you your vision is stable enough to drive.
- Drink plenty of fluids and eat a well-balanced diet - Your body heals more quickly if you have proper nutrition that includes vitamins.
- Attend your follow-ups - The goal is to make sure the eye is healing as intended and that the vision is improving.
Who Can Benefit the Most?
Most cataract patients that qualify can benefit from daycare cataract surgery. However, most cases that would benefit the most would be those that include: working professionals (that are able to take a very short time away from work), elderly patients (that are looking to recovery quickly), people with busy life schedules that would not be able to afford lengthy hospital stays, and patients (who want surgical care that is advanced, safe, and convenient).
The Future of Cataract Surgery
Daycare cataract surgery is cervical to where medical care will be heading — Fast, Safe, and Convenient for the patient. With the use of premium IOLs such as multifocal or toric lenses, many patients will be able to decrease or eliminate their dependency on glasses after cataract surgery.
Daycare cataract surgery has changed eye care forever by allowing for minimal recovery time, quick return home from the hospital, and speedy restoration of vision. With the proper aftercare and following your ophthalmologist's suggestions the road to your normal life and activities can happen in a matter of days.
If you or someone you know is having difficulty with cloudy vision, glare, and general visual obscurity, it is time to contact an expert.
Book an Appointment at The Eye Foundation, and experience the benefits of advanced daycare cataract surgery.
