A cataract is the loss of transparency of the lens inside the eye, leading to impaired vision.
Cataract treatment involves removing the impaired lens through surgery and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens. This procedure uses various types of intraocular lenses with different optical properties, such as trifocal (three-focus) lenses, new-generation extended depth of focus (EDOF) lenses, toric lenses for astigmatism, or monofocal lenses. The most suitable lens is selected based on the patient's needs.
Modern cataract surgery is performed using a small-incision, stitch-free technique called phacoemulsification surgery. For patients who request it, the femtosecond laser-assisted method, also known as laser cataract surgery, can be used. Although the surgery is typically brief and highly successful, cataract surgery is a significant procedure as it involves replacing a key component of the sensitive organ of the eye.
Even the smallest complication can result in lifelong vision loss. Therefore, it is crucial to have the surgery performed by an experienced surgeon in a hospital that prioritizes maximum attention to sterilization, utilizes top-quality single-use surgical devices and materials, and provides high-quality intraocular lenses.
In a cataract surgery that proceeds without complications, it is normal to experience burning, stinging, and some blurriness in the eye on the first day.
During the first couple of days, vision may be blurry because the eye surface is irritated by the disinfectant solutions used during surgery, and the pupil remains dilated for the procedure. Additionally, corneal swelling caused by the hardness of the cataract may lead to blurry vision during the first week. In cases of very hard and advanced cataracts, vision might be significantly impaired for the first couple of days and could take up to 15 days to improve.
During this period, antibiotic drops are used to prevent infection, corticosteroid drops are prescribed to prevent the eye from reacting to the implanted lens, and NSAID drops are applied to avoid macular edema.
At our clinic, a general follow-up examination is performed on the first day after surgery, followed by a more detailed check-up around the first week, including vision assessment. A final follow-up is usually conducted at the end of the first month, during which glasses are prescribed if needed. Patients with monofocal lenses are often provided with reading glasses for close-up vision. The process typically concludes at this point, with an annual routine examination recommended afterward.
Light sensitivity does not occur in all or even most patients. However, it may develop early on in those with corneal irritation, corneal swelling, dry eye, or allergic reactions to eye drops used after surgery. This sensitivity resolves once the underlying issue is addressed.
Additionally, since light entering the eye decreases with long-term cataracts, patients may experience a sensitivity to light after surgery when the new transparent lens provides clear vision and allows more light to enter the eye. This is similar to the sensitivity experienced when opening curtains on a bright morning. This condition usually subsides within a few weeks as the eye adjusts to the increased light.
Patients with trifocal lenses may experience a different type of light sensitivity and glare, which typically diminishes within one month but can last up to six months.
If significant light sensitivity persists one month after surgery, it may indicate surgical complications or dry eye. Consulting your doctor is recommended in such cases.
In the first few days or weeks, the artificial intraocular lens may not fully settle into place, causing it to move slightly with eye movements. Patients often describe this as light flickering, which is entirely normal.
However, flashes of light resembling lightning, even when the eyes are closed, may indicate a retinal tear. Cataract surgery slightly increases the risk of retinal tears. Therefore, it is essential to consult your doctor, who can perform a retinal examination with dilated pupils. If a tear is detected, it can often be easily repaired with laser treatment if caught early. Delays may necessitate a separate surgical procedure.
Trifocal lenses, with their three focal points, may cause light halos and reflections, especially at night, due to the physical properties of the lens. Most patients adapt to this over time and become unaware of it. However, in rare cases, some patients’ brains may not adjust to these optical properties, causing significant discomfort. In such situations, replacing the intraocular lens is the solution.
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Contact informationAhmet Akman, MD, FACSProfessor of Ophthalmology
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