Complications from cataract surgeries rarely happen and are low in number. Many individuals are scared to undergo cataract surgery because of the cases where complications occur. Cataract surgery is one of the most successful surgical procedures performed on this date.
People who consider getting cataract surgery should not be afraid because research in Ophthalmology shows that 99.5 percent of 221,594 cataract surgery patients had zero severe complications. This percentile was achieved with the help of advanced technologies and techniques.
Medical treatment or additional surgery is performed when a minor cataract surgery occurs.
Cataract surgery complications rarely happen.
What Are the Common Cataract Surgery Complications?
Posterior capsule opacification (PCO) is one of the most common complications in cataract surgery.
This occurs when a layer of scar tissue forms behind the lens implant which causes blurry vision.
Vision after cataract surgery is expected to be very clear. However, in rare cases, PCO can occur for several months or years after cataract surgery.
Several studies have shown incidences of PCO occurred. 11.8% of patients experienced PCO a year after surgery, 20.7% 3 years after, and 28.4% 5 years after getting cataract surgery.
Treatment and medical support may be given to patients if the condition significantly progresses to help them restore their clear vision.
Another cataract surgery complication is dislocated intraocular lenses (IOL). In this complication, an individual may see the edge of the lens implant or the individual can develop double vision. A dislocated intraocular lens may decrease an individual’s visual acuity.
A capsular bag contains the cataract of the eye and the intraocular lens is placed inside it. This procedure is performed in most cases of cataract surgeries.
Side Effects of Having a Cataract Surgery
Minor eye inflammation or vision loss is one of the complications present in cataract surgery. Vision loss occurs when bleeding, or infection inside the eye is present which rarely happens.
A detached retina can take place even from a successful cataract procedure. But patients can see their ophthalmologist to reduce and prevent loss of vision.
Symptoms of retinal detachment include:
● Flashes of light
● curtain-like vision
● Floaters
If you experience any of these symptoms, be sure to report it to your ophthalmologist.
*Minor complications can be treated with medications and longer healing time.
Vision After a Successful Cataract Surgery
Sensitivity to sunlight is not rare after having cataract surgery. Eye protections are recommended if an individual experiences sensitivity to sunlight. Eye protection with photochromic lenses automatically darkens when hit with UV rays.
Individuals who had no significant improvement after cataract surgery may have an eye condition. These conditions may be related to age, diabetic retinopathy, or other eye conditions.
