Cataracts
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) :
1. Is cataract surgery painful?
No, cataract surgery is generally painless. Local anesthesia is used to numb the eye, and patients usually feel only mild discomfort.
2. How long does cataract surgery take?
The procedure typically takes 15-30 minutes per eye, with most patients returning home the same day.
3. What is the recovery time after cataract surgery?
Most patients experience improved vision within a few days, with full recovery in about 4-6 weeks. Dr. Suraj Munjal provides detailed post-operative care instructions for a smooth recovery.
4. Can both eyes be treated at the same time?
Cataract surgery is generally performed on one eye at a time. The second eye can be operated on after a gap of a few days or weeks, based on the patient’s recovery.
About Cataracts
A cataract is the clouding of the eye’s natural lens, which leads to blurred or impaired vision. It is a common age-related condition but can also develop due to other factors. If left untreated, cataracts can significantly affect daily activities such as reading, driving, and recognizing faces.
Causes of Cataracts
Cataracts can develop for various reasons, including:
- Aging: Most cataracts are related to aging, typically developing after the age of 50.
- Genetics: Family history can increase your risk of cataracts.
- Eye Injuries: Previous eye injuries or surgeries can cause cataract formation.
- Medical Conditions: Diabetes and other chronic diseases can lead to cataract development.
- Medications: Prolonged use of certain medications, such as corticosteroids, may contribute to cataracts.
- Lifestyle: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and prolonged UV exposure also play a role.
Types of Cataracts
There are several types of cataracts, classified based on their location and cause:
- Nuclear Cataracts: Typically related to aging, they affect the center of the lens.
- Cortical Cataracts: Formed around the edges of the lens and often caused by diabetes.
- Posterior Subcapsular Cataracts: Develop at the back of the lens and are linked to steroid use or diabetes.
- Congenital Cataracts: Present at birth or develop during childhood due to genetic factors or infections during pregnancy.
Symptoms of Cataracts
The symptoms of cataracts can vary, but common signs include:
- Blurry or cloudy vision
- Difficulty seeing at night
- Sensitivity to bright lights and glare
- Halos around lights
- Double vision in one eye
- Fading or yellowing of colors
- Frequent changes in eyeglass prescription
If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s important to consult with a specialist like Dr. Suraj Munjal for an accurate diagnosis.
Diagnosis of Cataracts
Dr. Suraj Munjal uses state-of-the-art equipment to diagnose cataracts, including:
- Visual Acuity Test: Measures how well you can see at various distances.
- Slit-Lamp Examination: A microscope is used to examine the front structures of the eye.
- Retinal Exam: The doctor dilates your pupils to check the back of the eye (retina).
- Tonometry: Measures eye pressure to rule out other eye conditions, such as glaucoma.
An early diagnosis ensures better management of cataracts and a timely recommendation for surgery if necessary.
Treatment for Cataracts
The only effective treatment for cataracts is surgery, which is a safe and common procedure. Dr. Suraj Munjal offers advanced cataract surgery options:
- Phacoemulsification (Phaco): A minimally invasive procedure where the cloudy lens is broken up and removed, followed by the insertion of an artificial intraocular lens (IOL).
- Femtosecond Laser-Assisted Cataract Surgery: A blade-free option using laser technology for more precision.
Both procedures are performed on an outpatient basis, with minimal discomfort and rapid recovery. The success rate is over 95%, with most patients experiencing a significant improvement in vision within a few days.
Cost of Cataract Treatment and Stay in India
Cataract surgery in India is not only highly effective but also more affordable compared to many other countries. The cost of cataract surgery with Dr. Suraj Munjal varies based on the type of lens used and the procedure chosen:
- Standard Phaco Surgery: INR 20,000 – INR 50,000 per eye
- Laser-Assisted Surgery: INR 50,000 – INR 1,00,000 per eye