If you have cataracts that have been affecting your vision, then it may be time to seek out a professional who can complete a cataract surgery. Cataract surgery has a success rate of around 98%. This means that your vision is likely to improve immensely after the procedure is over, and complication risks are low. However, there are still some complications you should consider, since every surgical operation has risks, no matter how small they are. For cataract surgery, the detachment of the retina is one issue that you may need to contend with. You can follow the tips below though, to make sure this is not an issue after your operation.

Ask For The Right Kind Of Procedure

Retinal detachment can occur after a cataract procedure if one is performed that involves the complete removal of the lens from the eye. When this occurs, your eye doctor will also remove the capsule that surrounds it. This capsule is a clear membrane that sits around the lens and helps to keep it in place. When the capsule is removed, it disturbs the natural fluids within the eye. These fluids can shift forward suddenly and pull on the thin and delicate tissues of the retina. This can cause the tissues to slowly start moving away from the back part of the eye after the surgery is completed.

To reduce the chance of the retina detaching from the back of the eye, make sure that you ask your eye doctor to complete a laser procedure. Laser procedures involve the placement of very small incisions along the side of the eyeball. An ultrasound probe will then be used to break up the eye lens. A small suction device then removes the small pieces from the eye before an artificial lens is slipped inside. During this procedure, the lens capsule is left in place and this reduces the disruption of the intraocular fluid and retinal tissues.

Laser and ultrasound cataract surgeries typically cost more due to the technology used during the procedure. However, the higher cost may be worth it in the long run. Retinal detachment also requires surgical intervention, and this is likely to increase your costs if you do not invest in the right operation the first time around.

Use Your Eye Drops

After your cataract surgery is performed, your eye doctor will provide you with prescription eye drops. Generally, two types of drops are prescribed. One contains antibiotics to keep infections from forming, and the other contains anti-inflammatory medication. Typically, you will need to use both of the eye drops for a 7 to 14 day period. Anti-inflammatory eye drops typically contain steroidal medication.

Unfortunately, the steroid medication can cause eye soreness, redness, itching, burning sensations, and the presence of halos or lights in the visual field. These side effects may prompt you to stop taking your medication before you should. However, you probably will not notice if your eye becomes swollen after surgery, since there are no nerve endings within the eye itself. If swelling does occur, the fluids within the eye can compress and place pressure against the retina. This may cause the tissues to pull away from the eye.

You can prevent retinal detachment by simply using your eye drop medication for as long as is suggested. If you feel any side effects, then allow the steroidal medication to soak into the eye. An hour or two later, place a warm compress on your eye to soothe the discomfort. You may also be able to use a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory eye drop medication either instead or in conjunction with your other medications. This can help to reduce burning sensations and general soreness around the eye.

For more information, contact clinics like Montgomery Eye Center.