What is a Cataract?
A cataract is an eye condition that occurs when the lens in your eye becomes cloudy and you develop blurred vision. It is primarily caused due to ageing. As people age, changes can occur in the proteins that make up the lens which leads to gradual opacification of the lens. Other causes of cataract include heredity, health conditions such as diabetes and glaucoma, or an eye injury.
What is a Trifocal IOL?
An intraocular lens (IOL) is a safe and effective eye implant that is used to restore your vision. It is used as a replacement for the damaged/clouded natural lens. Trifocal IOL is an advanced form of IOL that allows three ranges of clear vision – near, far, and intermediate distance. It is used for people with cataract and for those who have an irregularly shaped cornea.
What is Cataract Surgery with Trifocal IOL?
In a cataract surgery, the opacified natural lens is replaced with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). This surgery is performed for the treatment of cataract and to improve your vision. Cataract surgery with trifocal IOL uses a trifocal lens to replace the natural lens in your eye.
What is the Pre-Surgical Preparation for Cataract Surgery with Trifocal IOL?
Before your cataract surgery with trifocal IOL, your eye doctor will:
- Perform a detailed eye exam and test your vision.
- Select an appropriate implant for your condition.
- Prescribe medicated eye drops to be used a few days before your surgery.
- Instruct you to stop wearing contact lenses and taking certain medications several days prior to the surgery.
Procedure for Cataract Surgery with Trifocal IOL
Cataract surgery with trifocal IOL usually involves the following steps:
- You will have eye drops administered to numb the eye. You may also be given medication to relieve anxiety.
- During the procedure, you may see some light but will usually feel nothing or only some slight pressure.
- A tiny cut or incision will be made through your cornea to reach the damaged lens.
- The cloudy lens will be cut and removed piece by piece.
- It is then replaced by the trifocal IOL.
- There are no stitches as the incision heals naturally.
You can return home the same day after surgery. You should have someone drive you back home after the procedure.
Recovery and Post-surgical Care after Cataract Surgery with Trifocal IOL
You can resume your regular activities within 2-3 days after the cataract surgery with trifocal IOL.
Take the medicated eye drops as prescribed by your doctor.
Avoid exercise and heavy lifting until your doctor tells you it is safe to do so.
Please note that it may take a few weeks for the new lens to become fully functional post-surgery.
What are the Risks and Complications of Cataract Surgery with Trifocal IOL?
Cataract surgery with trifocal IOL is relatively safe. However, it may have the following risks and complications:
- Residual blurred vision
- Haloes around lights
- Displacement of the lens
Prognosis
Cataract surgery with trifocal IOL is relatively safe and has high patient satisfaction levels. People can work on computers, shave, sew, and read comfortably with a reduced dependency on spectacles. However, you must visit your eye specialist for regular follow-ups to ensure timely diagnosis of any unwanted side-effects.
