- Cataract surgery is one of the most common operations performed in this country. Over one million operations are performed yearly. The surgery is usually very successful with almost 99% well after the procedure.
- Cataract surgery in patients with glaucoma presents a different situation. Healing appears to occur more slowly in a patient with glaucoma than compared to a normal patient. The surgical technique is usually more complicated and difficult to do in eyes with glaucoma as compared to normal ones. Following even uncomplicated surgery, glaucoma can become uncontrolled and need additional medications or further operations in order to prevent loss of vision. Not all intraocular lens implants can be used in glaucoma patients.
- The Glaucoma Center specializes in cataract surgery in patients with glaucoma. It provides the unique aggressive management to assist the patient following surgery in order to provide the greatest chance of success.
- All surgery is performed through the Ambulatory Surgery Unit at University Hospital. Local anesthesia is used. The procedure usually lasts for one hour. A patch is worn the night after surgery. Patients may walk, eat normally, watch television and read the night after surgery. Bending and light activities may be performed one to two days after surgery. Driving the car may be performed two days after surgery, vision permitting. More strenuous activities may be performed one week after surgery. Complete healing usually occurs two to three months after surgery when a pair of glasses is prescribed.
