Question: Can medications used during Cataract Surgery cause cornea abrasions?
Answer: While unusual, it is possible that in certain patients with especially dry eyes or otherwise compromised corneal epithelium-the delicate top layer of the cornea-a slight erosion of the surface might occur due to the irrigating solution used or perhaps due to preservatives that might be used in certain medications. When it does occur it can be bit uncomfortable but usually goes away in a short period of time. It may be more likely-and patients should be cautioned-NOT to touch the dropper tip of any eye drop to the surface of the eye when placing drops in the eye as this in fact can cause a corneal abrasion and can contaminate the bottle of drops. If there is any doubt about the proper technique for instilling eye drops after Cataract Surgery be sure to ask your Cataract Surgeon or their staff to help you or a caregiver learn the best technique.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Cataracts, Cataract Surgery & Lens Implant (IOL) facts & information on how to find trusted Cataract Surgeons who are the Best Cataract Surgeon- review costs, risks, complications, side effects, cataract surgery recovery.
Showing posts with label complications. Show all posts
Showing posts with label complications. Show all posts
Monday, August 15, 2011
Complications and Cataract Surgeon Choice
Question: I am uncertain as to whether to continue with my Cataract Surgeon as I had a complication. My Cataract operation for the left eye resulted in a tear in the posterior capsule with parts of the old lens escaping the capsule. My Cataract Surgeon did not repair the tear prior to inserting the new lens implant. The pressure in this eye rose to 56 and my surgeon scheduled a vitrectomy with a Retina surgeon to reduce the pressure. Should I consider a different surgeon for the right eye?
Answer: Although not terribly common, a tear or rupture of the posterior capsule during Cataract Surgery and Lens Implant procedure does happen every so often. This complication can happen for a number of reasons and does not necessarily suggest a poor technique or lack of capability on the part of the Cataract Surgeon. The "capsule" that surrounds the crystalline lens where the cloudy material that forms the Cataract exists is actually a very thin, fragile membrane. Certain eye anatomical features as well as the type of Cataract can make this membrane or capsule even more fragile. The decision not to perform a vitrectomy at the time of the Cataract operation may have been made based on the ability to visualize the completeness of the removal of all of the cloudy lens material and reflected the best judgement at the time of surgery. All of these considerations aside-it is never inappropriate to make the choice of an eye surgeon based on your personal comfort and confidence level in the particular individual. If you do not feel confident in his or her abilities then you should consider the choice of another surgeon who is considered the best Cataract Surgeon in your area. It is never inappropriate to have a second opinion or consultation in order to assess your confidence level.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Although not terribly common, a tear or rupture of the posterior capsule during Cataract Surgery and Lens Implant procedure does happen every so often. This complication can happen for a number of reasons and does not necessarily suggest a poor technique or lack of capability on the part of the Cataract Surgeon. The "capsule" that surrounds the crystalline lens where the cloudy material that forms the Cataract exists is actually a very thin, fragile membrane. Certain eye anatomical features as well as the type of Cataract can make this membrane or capsule even more fragile. The decision not to perform a vitrectomy at the time of the Cataract operation may have been made based on the ability to visualize the completeness of the removal of all of the cloudy lens material and reflected the best judgement at the time of surgery. All of these considerations aside-it is never inappropriate to make the choice of an eye surgeon based on your personal comfort and confidence level in the particular individual. If you do not feel confident in his or her abilities then you should consider the choice of another surgeon who is considered the best Cataract Surgeon in your area. It is never inappropriate to have a second opinion or consultation in order to assess your confidence level.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Monday, June 13, 2011
Late Cataract Surgery Complications
Question: My husband is still having complications from bilateral cataract surgery from 2 years ago including redness, swelling, blurred vision, pain and light sensitivity. At each cataract surgeon visit he is given more or different eye drops. Shouldn't this be cleared by now. He is not a diabetic.
Answer: Late or long term complications of Cataract Surgery are really not that common and typically do not include the types of symptoms that you describe. While it is possible that the redness, swelling, blurred vision, pain and light sensitivity you describe are in fact related to the Cataract operation itself, it is entirely possible that they are also due to some secondary form of ocular surface disease such as dry eye or tear film dysfunction, some external eyelid problem such as chronic blepharitis, some other ocular inflammatory disease or even systemic inflammatory disease. It is unusual to have these kinds of symptoms for 2 years after Cataract Surgery and your Cataract Surgeon should be able to tell you what the specific problem is, its treatment path and prognosis. Otherwise you may wish to consider scheduling a consultation for a second opinion with a top Cataract Surgeon in your area in order to get a better understanding of the situation.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Late or long term complications of Cataract Surgery are really not that common and typically do not include the types of symptoms that you describe. While it is possible that the redness, swelling, blurred vision, pain and light sensitivity you describe are in fact related to the Cataract operation itself, it is entirely possible that they are also due to some secondary form of ocular surface disease such as dry eye or tear film dysfunction, some external eyelid problem such as chronic blepharitis, some other ocular inflammatory disease or even systemic inflammatory disease. It is unusual to have these kinds of symptoms for 2 years after Cataract Surgery and your Cataract Surgeon should be able to tell you what the specific problem is, its treatment path and prognosis. Otherwise you may wish to consider scheduling a consultation for a second opinion with a top Cataract Surgeon in your area in order to get a better understanding of the situation.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Thursday, June 9, 2011
Cataract Surgery Complications & Age
Cataract Surgery today is a high technology procedure that is safe, effective and predictable when performed by an experienced Cataract Surgeon. Yet, one has to wonder whether as patients get older their risk of complications with Cataract Surgery tends to increase with age. It might seem somewhat intuitive that the Cataract Surgery complication rate should increase as patients increase in frailty, circulation is further compromised and healing might even be somewhat slower. Researchers from the US Veterans Health Administration (VHA) reported at the Chicago 2010 Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Ophthalmology on the complication rate within 90 days of Cataract Surgery of a group of of 554 nonagenarians (age 90-99) and compared it the complication rate in a group of 11,407 octogenarians (age 80-89) who received Cataract Surgery in the VHA. The types of intraoperative and postoperative complications were identical between the two groups and the risk of having any intraoperative or postoperative complication was 13.5% for octogenarians and 13.4% for nonagenarians. The conclusion is that nonagenarians relative to octogenarians are not at increased risk of ocular complications from Cataract Surgery.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Monday, June 6, 2011
Scarring after Cataract Surgery? Is it true?
Question: I recently had cataract surgery in both eyes, have no astigmatism and only use glasses for reading. I had intraocular lenses (IOL) implanted to replace the cloudy lenses in each eye. At my two week visit after the second eye cataract operation the cataract surgeon informed me that I might need some minor surgery because sometimes with these lenses within one to ten years scar tissue may appear. It hasn't yet obviously but it may and it is a simple procedure to take care of it. He never made mention of it earlier and I am just curious about it. It wouldn't have made a difference as I needed the cataract surgery but is this true?
Answer: Cataract Surgery is quite technically complex and really pretty amazing. Most likely what your Cataract Surgeon is referring to is a Cataract Surgery complication called "posterior capsular opacification." This condition is sometimes referred to as a "secondary cataract" or "after cataract" and affects some 30% of patients who have Cataract Surgery. A Cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens of the eye. Although it might sound funny, the structure of the crystalline lens is like an M&M candy-it has a soft center and is surrounded by a "capsule" or membrane. During a Cataract operation the eye surgeon removes the cloudy soft center and leaves the "capsule" behind often placing the intraocular lens implant (IOL) inside the "capsule" to stabilize and secure it. Over time some patients experience a clouding of the capsule that almost makes it seem as if the Cataract is returning-which isn't possible. The treatment for this condition, "posterior capsular opacification," uses a laser to painlessly create an opening in the capsule to restore vision. This procedure is called a YAG Laser Capsulotomy and is quick, painless, requires only eye drops to numb the eye and instantly improves the vision.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Cataract Surgery is quite technically complex and really pretty amazing. Most likely what your Cataract Surgeon is referring to is a Cataract Surgery complication called "posterior capsular opacification." This condition is sometimes referred to as a "secondary cataract" or "after cataract" and affects some 30% of patients who have Cataract Surgery. A Cataract is a clouding of the crystalline lens of the eye. Although it might sound funny, the structure of the crystalline lens is like an M&M candy-it has a soft center and is surrounded by a "capsule" or membrane. During a Cataract operation the eye surgeon removes the cloudy soft center and leaves the "capsule" behind often placing the intraocular lens implant (IOL) inside the "capsule" to stabilize and secure it. Over time some patients experience a clouding of the capsule that almost makes it seem as if the Cataract is returning-which isn't possible. The treatment for this condition, "posterior capsular opacification," uses a laser to painlessly create an opening in the capsule to restore vision. This procedure is called a YAG Laser Capsulotomy and is quick, painless, requires only eye drops to numb the eye and instantly improves the vision.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Monday, May 23, 2011
Cataract Surgery and Lens Material Left Behind
Question: After cataract surgery I had to have another surgery to remove left behind lens material. I do not really understand how this happened or why. Is this unusual? Why me?
Answer: Leaving behind some small amount of lens cortex is unusual but happens from time to time. The incidence of this complication is approximately 0.02% after cataract surgery. Modern Cataract Surgery is quite safe and effective. It is highly complex, utilizes sophisticated technology and requires meticulous care and skill to deliver the outcomes and results we have to come to expect. As with any surgery there are always risks and potential cataract surgery complications that can occur due to whatever sets of anatomical and physiological variations exist from patient to patient. The diagnosis and action by your Cataract Surgeon reflect the necessary course to get you the best possible results and avoid an untoward inflammation or other secondary complications. Following his or her clinical advice will likely produce the best results for you.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of http://www.aboutcataractsurgery.com/ is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Leaving behind some small amount of lens cortex is unusual but happens from time to time. The incidence of this complication is approximately 0.02% after cataract surgery. Modern Cataract Surgery is quite safe and effective. It is highly complex, utilizes sophisticated technology and requires meticulous care and skill to deliver the outcomes and results we have to come to expect. As with any surgery there are always risks and potential cataract surgery complications that can occur due to whatever sets of anatomical and physiological variations exist from patient to patient. The diagnosis and action by your Cataract Surgeon reflect the necessary course to get you the best possible results and avoid an untoward inflammation or other secondary complications. Following his or her clinical advice will likely produce the best results for you.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of http://www.aboutcataractsurgery.com/ is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Friday, May 20, 2011
Cataract Surgery and Scleroderma
Question: I am 51 yrs old and have been on prednisone therapy for the past 3 years, due to Scleroderma and dermatamyositis. About 1 ½ yrs ago I started to notice a problem and was diagnosed with cataracts in both eyes. I was not really happy with the cataract surgeon that I saw at a large eye center. Also, had LASIK about 9 years ago. And, would the Scleroderma or dermatamyositis cause any issues with cataract surgery?
Answer: Cataract formation secondary to prolonged use of steroids is a known and expected side effect that increases with dosage. Generally, low doses of steroids daily, say 10 mg or less per day, may only increase the risk of Cataracts by 10% or so, the risk may increase to 30% if you take 10-15 mg daily and even to 80% if you need to take more than 15 mg per day. However, there really shouldn't be any unusual complications with Cataract Surgery secondary to the autoimmune issues you describe, although you may experience some longer than usual dry eye symptoms. Now, the fact that you have had LASIK does mean that there is a need to take very careful measurements for your intraocular lens implant (IOL) as previous LASIK surgery can make these measurements more complex. Your situation would be best handled by a top Cataract Surgeon who is also a LASIK Surgeon. In addition, if at all possible it would be quite helpful if you could provide your preoperative examination results, measurements and notes to the cataract and Refractive Surgeon you ultimately choose.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Cataract formation secondary to prolonged use of steroids is a known and expected side effect that increases with dosage. Generally, low doses of steroids daily, say 10 mg or less per day, may only increase the risk of Cataracts by 10% or so, the risk may increase to 30% if you take 10-15 mg daily and even to 80% if you need to take more than 15 mg per day. However, there really shouldn't be any unusual complications with Cataract Surgery secondary to the autoimmune issues you describe, although you may experience some longer than usual dry eye symptoms. Now, the fact that you have had LASIK does mean that there is a need to take very careful measurements for your intraocular lens implant (IOL) as previous LASIK surgery can make these measurements more complex. Your situation would be best handled by a top Cataract Surgeon who is also a LASIK Surgeon. In addition, if at all possible it would be quite helpful if you could provide your preoperative examination results, measurements and notes to the cataract and Refractive Surgeon you ultimately choose.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Sunday, May 8, 2011
Slanting Vision after Cataract Surgery
Question: I had cataract surgery in my left eye the other day. I see great but now everything is slightly slanted. I put a cup on the kitchen counter and it is slanted slightly left. Not so with my left eye which is fine. I am seeing the cataract surgeon again next week. Will this always be this way? I am fine with it but does that happen after this type of surgery?
Answer: If you are certain that the vision is "slanted" and not "wavy or bubbled or distorted or bent" then it potentially sounds like your complaint may have something to do with uncorrected or induced astigmatism. You do not say whether you had preexisting astigmatism before your Cataract Surgery . If you did and it was not corrected with an astigmatism correcting toric lens implant (IOL) or with Limbal Relaxing Incisions (LRI) then you will still have it and it will need to be corrected. It is also possible that depending on the type of Cataract Surgery technique that was used, a small amount of astigmatism could be induced by the surgery itself. Sometimes this is temporary and sometimes not. Make sure that when you return to your Cataract Surgeon for follow up you clearly explain what you are experiencing so that he or she can diagnose and address the complaint.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on http://www.aboutcataractsurgery.com/ is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of http://www.aboutcataractsurgery.com/ is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: If you are certain that the vision is "slanted" and not "wavy or bubbled or distorted or bent" then it potentially sounds like your complaint may have something to do with uncorrected or induced astigmatism. You do not say whether you had preexisting astigmatism before your Cataract Surgery . If you did and it was not corrected with an astigmatism correcting toric lens implant (IOL) or with Limbal Relaxing Incisions (LRI) then you will still have it and it will need to be corrected. It is also possible that depending on the type of Cataract Surgery technique that was used, a small amount of astigmatism could be induced by the surgery itself. Sometimes this is temporary and sometimes not. Make sure that when you return to your Cataract Surgeon for follow up you clearly explain what you are experiencing so that he or she can diagnose and address the complaint.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on http://www.aboutcataractsurgery.com/ is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of http://www.aboutcataractsurgery.com/ is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Cornea Swelling and Cataract Surgery
Question: I had cataract surgery 4 days ago. The surgeon said I had cornea edema. My vision is still awfully blurry (has improved). I have the toric lens implant. Is the blurry vision normal and about how long does it take for the vision to be "better than before?"
Answer: A mild amount of corneal edema after Cataract Surgery is not terribly uncommon. A great deal of corneal edema that takes more than a few days or perhaps up to a week to clear is unusual and may suggest that there is a weakening of the "pumping" function of the cornea whereby it clears itself of fluid. The term for this is "pseudophakic corneal edema". Some Cataract Surgeons will attempt to "clear" the corneal edema by prescribing hypertonic saline eye drops to draw the water out of the cornea whereas others will simply wait to see if it gets better on its own. An important point is that you state it is improving and not getting worse. This is significant and favorable. If you are not already scheduled to do so and if you do not experience a considerable improvement with a week you should return to your Cataract Surgeon for follow up.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: A mild amount of corneal edema after Cataract Surgery is not terribly uncommon. A great deal of corneal edema that takes more than a few days or perhaps up to a week to clear is unusual and may suggest that there is a weakening of the "pumping" function of the cornea whereby it clears itself of fluid. The term for this is "pseudophakic corneal edema". Some Cataract Surgeons will attempt to "clear" the corneal edema by prescribing hypertonic saline eye drops to draw the water out of the cornea whereas others will simply wait to see if it gets better on its own. An important point is that you state it is improving and not getting worse. This is significant and favorable. If you are not already scheduled to do so and if you do not experience a considerable improvement with a week you should return to your Cataract Surgeon for follow up.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Saturday, May 7, 2011
White Spots after Cataract Surgery
Question: My dad had cataract surgery and after this his vision was blurred with white spots. The eye doctor then put a small opening in the lens, which I think might be what is the YAG laser capsulotomy but his vision is still blurred with white spots. Is this something that can be treated and what should he do?
Answer: You do not state whether the white spots your Dad sees are fixed and stable or floating and move around. In either case it would be important for your Dad's Cataract Surgeon to fully evaluate the reason for the continued spots and blur and identify whether the cause is in the Vitreous body behind the Lens Implant, the Lens Implant itself or perhaps in the Retina in particular the Macula. Your Dad's symptoms should be thoroughly reviewed with the Cataract Surgeon. If he or she is unable to provide a satisfactory answer then it might be worthwhile to schedule a second opinion with a top Cataract Surgeon in your area.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular, a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: You do not state whether the white spots your Dad sees are fixed and stable or floating and move around. In either case it would be important for your Dad's Cataract Surgeon to fully evaluate the reason for the continued spots and blur and identify whether the cause is in the Vitreous body behind the Lens Implant, the Lens Implant itself or perhaps in the Retina in particular the Macula. Your Dad's symptoms should be thoroughly reviewed with the Cataract Surgeon. If he or she is unable to provide a satisfactory answer then it might be worthwhile to schedule a second opinion with a top Cataract Surgeon in your area.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular, a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Monday, April 25, 2011
Cataract Surgery Light Tremors
Question: I have had Cataract Surgery in both eyes. When I change environments from outside to inside I experience small tremors that occur in both eyes. Instead of lessening over time this has become constant. My vision is very clear but the shaky feeling is more than I can stand as my eyes are fluttering constantly. My Cataract Surgeon says it will get better but it had grown worse. Please advise.
Answer: You do not state how long it has been since you have had Cataract Surgery and Lens Implants. However the flickering or tremors of light that you describe is not an uncommon complaint that patients who are adapting to newly implanted intraocular lenses (IOL) experience. This visual effect is thought to possibly be due to the reflections off the edges of the IOL and in almost all cases of the flickering or tremoring goes away with time. If it is so disturbing and you are dissatisfied with the answer your cataract Surgeon has provided you may wish to get a second opinion from a top Cataract Surgeon in your area. There is never anything wrong with seeking a second opinion to make you feel more comfortable.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on http://www.aboutcataractsurgery.com/ is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of http://www.aboutcataractsurgery.com/ is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: You do not state how long it has been since you have had Cataract Surgery and Lens Implants. However the flickering or tremors of light that you describe is not an uncommon complaint that patients who are adapting to newly implanted intraocular lenses (IOL) experience. This visual effect is thought to possibly be due to the reflections off the edges of the IOL and in almost all cases of the flickering or tremoring goes away with time. If it is so disturbing and you are dissatisfied with the answer your cataract Surgeon has provided you may wish to get a second opinion from a top Cataract Surgeon in your area. There is never anything wrong with seeking a second opinion to make you feel more comfortable.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on http://www.aboutcataractsurgery.com/ is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to Cataracts, Cataract Surgery of Lens Implants. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of http://www.aboutcataractsurgery.com/ is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Tuesday, April 12, 2011
Black Eye from Cataract Surgery
Question: I had Cataract Surgery on 3/15/11. I still feel some discomfort mainly at night when I am laying down and closing my eyes. It feels abnormal-almost like a quivering feeling below the eye. I had a black eye atter surgery and am still waiting for some of the bruising to go away. I am scheduled for the left eye tomorrow 4/12/11. Is what I am experiencing normal? The cataract Surgeon said to expect a black eye on the right eye.
Answer: Short term complications of Cataract Surgery such as a bruise can sometimes occur within the first 24 hours after surgery. If there was some factor regarding your overall health and medical condition that caused the Cataract Surgeon to use an anesthetic injection either alone or in combination with anesthetic eye drops it is possible to get a bruise or "black eye". The bruising is temporary and while it doesn't happen very often it can sometimes occur. By all means mention to your surgeon the other discomfort you are experiencing so that he or she can examine the eye and the tissue around the eye for anything untoward.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to LASIK. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Short term complications of Cataract Surgery such as a bruise can sometimes occur within the first 24 hours after surgery. If there was some factor regarding your overall health and medical condition that caused the Cataract Surgeon to use an anesthetic injection either alone or in combination with anesthetic eye drops it is possible to get a bruise or "black eye". The bruising is temporary and while it doesn't happen very often it can sometimes occur. By all means mention to your surgeon the other discomfort you are experiencing so that he or she can examine the eye and the tissue around the eye for anything untoward.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to LASIK. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Saturday, April 9, 2011
Cataract Surgery and Bloodshot Eyes
Question: I had cataract surgery (right eye) about 13 months ago. An intraocular lens was inserted. During past year I tend to have minor 'blood shot' eye that usually it disappears in afternoon. What might be causing this?
Answer: A bloodshot eye after Cataract Surgery is not a common occurrence nor is it unheard of. The fact that it is a minor event is good.You do not say whether there is any irritation or discomfort with the "early in the day" bloodshot and this is important. You also do not say whether there is any discharge-either watery or sticky or whether there is any irritation or redness of the margins of your eyelids. There are many possible causes of some transient redness after Cataract Surgery including dry eye, minor eyelid inflammation or infection or chronic blepharitis, improper closure of your eyelids during sleep ad on and on, all of which can be investigated and diagnosed and a treatment plan recommended by your Cataract Surgeon. Your next step is to schedule a visit to your Cataract Surgeon and be sure to tell them all of the details of your complaint as well as making sure that they know all of the medications you are taking including OTC eye drops for the redness.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to LASIK. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: A bloodshot eye after Cataract Surgery is not a common occurrence nor is it unheard of. The fact that it is a minor event is good.You do not say whether there is any irritation or discomfort with the "early in the day" bloodshot and this is important. You also do not say whether there is any discharge-either watery or sticky or whether there is any irritation or redness of the margins of your eyelids. There are many possible causes of some transient redness after Cataract Surgery including dry eye, minor eyelid inflammation or infection or chronic blepharitis, improper closure of your eyelids during sleep ad on and on, all of which can be investigated and diagnosed and a treatment plan recommended by your Cataract Surgeon. Your next step is to schedule a visit to your Cataract Surgeon and be sure to tell them all of the details of your complaint as well as making sure that they know all of the medications you are taking including OTC eye drops for the redness.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to LASIK. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Cataract Surgery Complications
Question: My mom-in-law had cataract sx two days ago. Today on a p/o visit, she was told she has a "major eye bleed". I worked in an Ophthamology Surgicenter for more than 15 years and absolutely do not remember this complication, ever. She's in surgery now to repair the stitch that never closed the incision. We were told she has a 1 in 30 chance of having vision in the eye when it is healed. How common is this complication? Are there any stats that show better odds? Thanks.
Answer: Cataract Surgery complications are generally pretty rare and typically less than 5% in otherwise healthy patients. Certain health conditions such as diabetes, glaucoma and other blood and healing problems can increase the complication rate but are still considered somewhat rare. Bleeding is a very unusual short term complication of Cataract Surgery. Bleeding inside the back of the eye is quite rare. A chorodial hemorrhage can infrequently and unpredictably occur during Cataract Surgery and for no apparent reason. Acute bleeding can occur in the choroid, which is the delicate pattern of blood vessels underlying and nourishing the retina. Although this complication, called "choroidal hemorrhage" is more common among elderly patients, it is truly unpredictable. In some cases of choroidal hemorrhage, the bleeding is localized, and patients do well. In more severe cases of choroidal hemorrhage, visual loss can be substantial.
While bleeding can occur inside the front of the eye where the actually surgery is being performed, this too is rare-especially since the tiny incision is made in the clear portion of the cornea where there are no blood vessels. If bleeding does occur it is usually limited to the surface of the eye where your surgeon can easily cauterize it and stop it immediately.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to LASIK. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
Answer: Cataract Surgery complications are generally pretty rare and typically less than 5% in otherwise healthy patients. Certain health conditions such as diabetes, glaucoma and other blood and healing problems can increase the complication rate but are still considered somewhat rare. Bleeding is a very unusual short term complication of Cataract Surgery. Bleeding inside the back of the eye is quite rare. A chorodial hemorrhage can infrequently and unpredictably occur during Cataract Surgery and for no apparent reason. Acute bleeding can occur in the choroid, which is the delicate pattern of blood vessels underlying and nourishing the retina. Although this complication, called "choroidal hemorrhage" is more common among elderly patients, it is truly unpredictable. In some cases of choroidal hemorrhage, the bleeding is localized, and patients do well. In more severe cases of choroidal hemorrhage, visual loss can be substantial.
While bleeding can occur inside the front of the eye where the actually surgery is being performed, this too is rare-especially since the tiny incision is made in the clear portion of the cornea where there are no blood vessels. If bleeding does occur it is usually limited to the surface of the eye where your surgeon can easily cauterize it and stop it immediately.
Important Note: The information presented on the About Cataract Surgery Blog or provided in response to a request for information in the Ask Cataract Surgeons section on www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not intended to diagnose or treat eye problems, eye conditions or eye diseases including appropriateness of treatment, risks, complications or side effects as related to LASIK. In particular a response to an inquiry made on the Ask Cataract Surgeons section of www.aboutcataractsurgery.com is not meant to take the place of the professional medical care provided by your eye doctor, ophthalmologist and Cataract Surgeon surgeon. Contacting us via e-mail or any other means is not a substitute for medical care.
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