Cataract Surgery Complications

Over 3 million cataract surgeries are performed each year in the United States alone, with 98% of patients reporting positive results. Cataract surgery is not only considered one of the most popular medical procedures in the world, but also one of the safest and most effective. While cataract surgery complications are rare, it is important that patients educate themselves thoroughly about possible side effects before pursuing a treatment. Your ophthalmologist will be sure to discuss possible benefits, risks and complications with you during your pre-operative appointments.

Cataract Surgery Risks

As with any surgical procedure, the replacement of the eye's natural lens with an artificial IOL carries certain risks. Examples of cataract surgery complications include:

• Retinal detachment: Following cataract surgery, it is important that you pay attention to any flashes of light or "floaters" in your field of vision. These symptoms should be treated as a medical emergency.
• Infection: As the eye is healing, it is particularly vulnerable to infection-causing bacteria. Your ophthalmologist may caution you to avoid touching your eye area following surgery, and to wash hands thoroughly before inserting prescribed eye drops.
• Inflammation: Following eye surgery, a slight amount of inflammation inside the eye is to be expected. Your ophthalmologist will likely prescribe a week-long regimen of eye drops to control inflammation.
• Secondary cataracts: When the cataract-clouded lens of the eye is removed, the posterior capsule is left in place. Occasionally, this capsule becomes clouded and presents a condition known as a "posterior capsule opacity." Fortunately, secondary cataracts are easily treated with a quick laser procedure known as a YAG capsulotomy.
  

If cataract surgery complications occur, it is important to contact a medical professional immediately. When left untreated, inflammation, infection and retinal detachment could lead to permanent vision loss.

Prevent Cataract Surgery Complications

Following your ophthalmologist's post-operative instructions can reduce the likelihood that you will experience complications following cataract surgery. During your recovery from surgery:

• Use eye drops exactly as prescribed
• Wash your hands thoroughly before touching your eye area
• Avoid rubbing or putting pressure on your eye
• Wear a protective shield over your eye while sleeping for approximately one week following surgery
  
• Avoid lifting heavy objects for approximately two weeks following surgery
  

It is also important to attend all post-operative appointments, during which your ophthalmologist will evaluate your healing process. Your first follow-up appointment will most likely occur 24 to 36 hours after your surgery. Additional visits will be scheduled for the following week, and then the following month.

When to Seek Help

If you experience any of the following symptoms, they may indicate cataract surgery complications. It is important to contact a medical professional right away to prevent permanent vision loss.

• Unusually blurry vision, or sudden vision loss
• Eye pain
• Redness of the eye
• Bright flashes or "floaters"

Contact an Ophthalmologist

Prior to your surgery, your doctor will provide you with a comprehensive overview of possible cataract surgery complications. Contact a qualified ophthalmologist in your area today, who will be able to answer any questions you may have about cataract surgery.

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