Clear, healthy eyes are possible at any age.
Replacing the lens of the eye is a medical procedure that is usually completed as an out-patient surgery in a hospital or surgical center. Replacing the lens is the most effective treatment for cataracts, a filmy coating of the lens. In some cases, a lens can be inserted that not only replaces the filmy lens, but also corrects near or far-sightedness. This procedure is called Refractive Lens Exchange,or RLE. Your surgeon can help you decide what options are best for you.
Instructions
1. Visit your ophthalmologist if you suspect that you have cataracts. Your doctor will test your vision and help you determine if surgery is the right option. Before the procedure, you will be asked to use antibiotic drops to lower the risk of infection. You will also fast 12 hours before surgery.
2. Sign into the surgical center the day of your surgery. You may be given a mild sedative to help you relax before the procedure.
3. Hold your eyelid open while the surgical assistant uses drops to numb the outer portion of your eye. A second set of drops dilate your pupil, giving the surgeon access to the lens.
4. Relax as much as possible and hold your eye still as the surgeon makes a small incision in the front of your eye. The surgeon inserts a small ultra-sonic probe that breaks up the lens and removes the pieces with a suction device. The surgeon then slips the new lens into the incision and slides it into place. Finally, the surgeon stitches the incision closed.
5. Keep your hands away from your eye following surgery. To further protect the eye, some doctors require a metal mesh eye-patch be worn.
6. Follow your surgeon's instruction and use the eye drops provided as directed.
Tags: Replacing lens, surgical center
