Glossary term · Treatment
Cataract surgery (also: Cataract removal, Phacoemulsification, Phaco): Cataract surgery is an operation to remove the eye’s clouded lens and usually replace it with an artificial intraocular lens to restore clear vision.
Cataract surgery removes the eye’s clouded natural lens and almost always replaces it with an artificial intraocular lens. MedlinePlus says it is usually outpatient surgery performed by an ophthalmologist while adults are awake, with numbing drops or an injection. The most common technique, phacoemulsification, breaks up the cataract with ultrasound through a very small incision.
What techniques are used?
- Phacoemulsification: ultrasound breaks the cataract into fragments that are suctioned out through a very small incision.
- Extracapsular extraction: the cataract is removed mostly in one piece through a larger incision.
- Laser-assisted surgery: a laser makes the incisions and softens the cataract.
What is the intraocular lens?
MedlinePlus explains that the artificial lens takes over the focusing work of the natural lens. Depending on its power and type, you may not need glasses afterwards for some distances. Ask the surgeon which lens types they offer and how each would suit your eyes and daily activities.
What are the risks?
MedlinePlus says that rarely the entire lens cannot be removed and a further procedure is needed. Very rare complications include infection and bleeding, which can cause permanent vision problems.
How should you plan aftercare during travel?
- Expect an eye patch and drops after surgery, and a follow-up examination usually the next day.
- Bring someone to accompany you, because you should not travel alone straight afterwards.
- Wear sunglasses outdoors and wash your hands before touching the eye or using drops.
- Keep soap and water out of the eye and avoid strenuous activity until cleared.
- Ask whether both eyes will be treated on one trip, and when the eye surgeon advises you can fly.
Questions people ask
Can both eyes be done on one trip?
Some surgeons operate on the second eye after a short gap and others prefer a later visit. It depends on your eyes and the surgeon’s practice. Ask early, because it affects how long you stay in India.
Which reports should I send before travelling?
Send any recent eye examination results, your current glasses prescription and details of other eye conditions such as glaucoma or diabetes affecting the eyes. The surgeon will usually repeat measurements for the lens power in India.
Sources
General information, not medical or legal advice. Rules change: confirm with the official source. Your treating specialist decides on suitability, treatment and length of stay. How we write and check.