If you have been recently diagnosed with cataracts, you may be wondering about the treatment options available to you. And while there are medications that can help to slow the progression of cataracts, eventually the only treatment to get rid of them completely is surgery. Get to know some of the facts about cataract surgery you should be aware of so you can be sure you are prepared when the time comes for your cataract eye surgery. 

1. Cataract Surgery Removes the Lens of the Eye

Cataracts develop in the lens of the eye. Because of this, the solution to your cataract problem is to simply remove the lens (as this removes cataracts along with it). However, the lens is a necessary part of the eye that works to focus images light in the eye. As such, it is also replaced in cataract surgery. An artificial lens is inserted in place of the original lens. You will likely notice within hours or days of surgery that you can see clearly because of this new lens. 

2. Cataract Surgery Is Generally an Outpatient Procedure

Another fact to keep in mind about cataract surgery is that it is generally performed as an outpatient procedure. This means you will not have to stay in the clinic or hospital for very long after the surgery, and you can go through the recovery process in the comfort of your own home. 

3. Cataract Surgery Is Quick

When it comes to going through cataract surgery, the process will be quite quick. Generally, the procedure only takes a matter of minutes. You will likely be in the clinic for an hour or two total for your appointment. This includes preoperative and postoperative care. After the surgery, you will need to stay in the clinic for about 15 minutes to 30 minutes just to ensure there are no immediate complications or issues. You will then be sent home to rest and recuperate. 

4. Cataract Surgery Is Done Without General Anesthesia

Cataract surgery is so quick in part because it is done without the use of general anesthesia. You will instead be sedated and be in a "twilight" state where you are conscious but may or may not fall asleep. You will likely be aware of the doctor and nurse in with you but will not feel anything when your eye is being worked on and will be so relaxed that it won't matter to you. 

With this knowledge about cataract surgery, you can feel better prepared for the procedure when the time comes to schedule your surgery. 

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