Ophthalmology
Cataract Surgery
Cataract surgery is the procedure performed to improve clouded vision caused by the cataract itself.
Treatment characteristics
This surgery may be needed if you have problems reading, watching TV, driving or working on the computer, or if you have blurry vision and your daily activities are restricted due to poor eyesight.
This procedure is usually performed with topical anaesthesia to numb the eye and usually requires 20-30 minutes.
The intervention consists of:
Using ultrasound waves to break the cataract into small fragments (phacoemulsification).
A millimeter incision is made to suction out the fragments.
Place the intraocular lens (IOL). This will replace the eye’s natural lens.
About ten minutes after the operation, the doctor will give you the necessary guidelines to assist your recovery and after care at home.
Please bare in mind that both eyes cannot be operated at the same time.
After a few days, you can be certain that your overall visual acuity has improved and you will regain your perception of shapes and colours.
If you are able to stay in Spain for the entire recovery process, you should remain for about 8 weeks to fully recover. But if you have to return to your country earlier, you can do so 20 days after the intervention. You must always strictly follow the instructions given by the doctor.
Treatment itinerary
Before treatment
- Check that you have prepared all the personal documentation (credit card, cash, passport, Identity Card...), medical (reports, prescriptions, images...) and travel (confirmation of accommodation booking, travel tickets...)
- If you take medication of any kind not related to the surgery, do not forget to take with you the necessary amount for your stay in Spain, as well as the medical prescription that will allow you to travel with it without problems.
During treatment
- Once you are in Spain, you will have to make an appointment with your specialist. During this visit, the doctor will open your medical perform a physical examination and tell you if any further tests are needed to confirm the diagnosis.
- If it is not necessary and everything is confirmed, your doctor will tell you when you must go to the preoperative study and will confirm the time of admission for the day of your surgery.
- If the surgeon has told you to stop taking any medication a few days before the surgery, such as anticoagulants, please do not forget to follow the exact instructions given by the doctor or you will not be able to have the operation!
After treatment
- After cataract surgery you should wear sunglasses and maintain proper hygiene.
- No driving and avoid strenuous physical activities as well as reading for at least a week (this will depend on your progress).
- You should strictly follow the instructions given by your doctor.
- Keep in mind that your successful recovery also depends on you.
