Staying Healthy
Insider tips for a smooth recovery from cataract surgery
Pay attention to instructions, and prep in advance.
- Reviewed by Anthony L. Komaroff, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Health Letter
Replacing a clouded lens inside the eye (a cataract) with an artificial lens is a routine procedure with a low risk for complications. That doesn't mean you can be complacent about recovery; you need to follow exactly the postsurgical plan your doctor prescribes. Here are some extra tips.
Cataract surgery basicsCataract surgery is an outpatient procedure to replace a clouded lens inside the eye (a cataract) with a clear artificial lens. During surgery, the surgeon makes a makes a tiny incision in the eye, then breaks up and removes the cataract. After that, the new artificial lens is slipped into place. Some surgeons use a scalpel for the incision. Increasingly, surgeons are using an ultra-short-pulse (femtosecond) laser, which is integrated with three-dimensional imaging. Some doctors report that this tool offers more precision for certain steps of the surgery and ensures better lens placement. |
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About the Author
Heidi Godman, Executive Editor, Harvard Health Letter
About the Reviewer
Anthony L. Komaroff, MD, Editor in Chief, Harvard Health Letter
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