Outpatient CATARACT surgery.

The lens is a transparent part within the eye thanks to which we can focus on objects at any distance. From the age of 40 onwards the ability to adapt reduces (presbyopia) and, later, the lens tends to become opaque. When it is so opaque that the vision is reduced, we talk about cataracts.

Ten years ago, operations were not carried out on cataracts until the patient's eyesight was very much reduced. Today, thanks to new surgical techniques, the operation can be planned according to the visual needs of each patient.

Anaesthesia.
In 95% of cases we use periocular anaesthesia or drops, and sedation if the patient is nervous or apprehensive. General anaesthesia is reserved for very particular cases.

Surgical techniques.
The cataract is broken up using ultrasound through an incision of less than 3mm and the remains are sucked up using a mechanical device. Then a folding lens is inserted, of a suitable power for each particular case. This lens unfolds inside the eye, remaining lodged where the natural lens had been. It never needs to be changed and is not rejected.

After the operation.
Thanks to the local anaesthetic, the patient may be passed fit immediately after surgery or a few hours afterwards. Therefore, nowadays, cataract surgery may be considered as OUTPATIENT surgery.

Postoperative care.
In order to prevent the risk of infection and reduce inflammation, the patient has to put in some eye drops. He or she can go back to work a few days after the operation, without serious physical limitations.