Question 1

What is cataract and what are the symptoms of cataract?

Accepted Answer

A cataract occurs when the natural crystalline lens of the eye loses its transparency, causing blurred or distorted vision. Common symptoms include blurry vision, double vision, frequent changes in spectacle power, glare, difficulty with night vision, and reduced vision. If left untreated in advanced stages, cataract can lead to blindness.

Question 2

What is phacoemulsification and what is an IOL?

Accepted Answer

Phacoemulsification is a modern cataract surgery technique where the cataractous lens is emulsified using ultrasound energy and removed through a small incision. An intraocular lens, or IOL, is a biocompatible artificial lens placed inside the eye after removing the cataract to restore clear vision.

Question 3

At what stage should cataract be extracted?

Accepted Answer

Cataract surgery is usually advised when cataract starts affecting vision. With modern phacoemulsification technology, it is generally preferred to remove cataract before it becomes mature or advanced, as softer cataracts place less strain on the eye during surgery.

Question 4

Does one have to wear spectacles after cataract surgery?

Accepted Answer

The need for spectacles after cataract surgery depends on the type of IOL implanted, eye shape, eye health, and other factors. Monofocal IOLs may require glasses for reading, while multifocal, EDOF, and toric IOLs can reduce dependence on spectacles.

Question 5

How long does cataract surgery take and what is done during surgery?

Accepted Answer

Cataract surgery usually takes around 10 to 20 minutes. The eye is anesthetized, making the procedure painless. Surgery is performed through a small sutureless incision, the cataract is emulsified and removed, and a foldable intraocular lens is implanted.

Question 6

What is laser vision correction and is it safe?

Accepted Answer

Laser vision correction refers to procedures used to correct refractive errors such as myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism to reduce dependence on glasses or contact lenses. Common options include ReLEx SMILE, LASIK, and advanced surface ablation. Safety depends on corneal health, eye power, and proper preoperative evaluation.

Question 7

What should I expect during a preoperative checkup for laser vision correction?

Accepted Answer

A preoperative checkup includes refraction, slit-lamp examination, retina evaluation, and corneal topography. Eye drops may be used to check the retina and confirm spectacle power. The checkup may take around one hour or more. Contact lens users may be advised to stop using lenses a few days before testing.

Question 8

What should I expect during and after laser vision correction?

Accepted Answer

Laser vision correction is usually painless and quick, taking around 10 to 15 minutes. Numbing eye drops are used, and the laser application is completed within seconds. After the procedure, mild foggy vision or irritation may occur. Rest for a few days to one week may be advised depending on the procedure.

Question 9

Am I a candidate for SMILE procedure?

Accepted Answer

You may be a candidate for SMILE if you are at least 18 years old, have stable spectacle power for one to two years, healthy eyes, normal corneal topography, and adequate corneal thickness. SMILE is mainly used to treat myopia and myopic astigmatism.

Question 10

What about haloes and glare after refractive surgery?

Accepted Answer

Some people may experience glare, haloes, or temporary distorted vision during the healing phase after refractive surgery. These symptoms are usually temporary and less common with modern laser systems. Dry eyes can also cause such symptoms and may improve with lubricating eye drops.

Question 11

What is Computer Vision Syndrome and who is prone to develop it?

Accepted Answer

Computer Vision Syndrome is a group of symptoms caused by prolonged use of computers, smartphones, tablets, or digital devices. It commonly affects people who spend more than three hours in front of screens. Symptoms include eye discomfort, dryness, irritation, watering, tiredness, headache, blurred vision, and sometimes neck or back pain.

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