Cataract Surgery in Bangladesh - Affordable Eye Surgery

Cataract diagnosis generally involves a comprehensive eye examination conducted by an ophthalmologist. The diagnosis may include the following:

1. Visual Acuity Test: A visual acuity test utilizes an eye chart to measure how well you can read a series of letters. In this test, the eyes are tested one at a time, while the other eye is covered. Using a chart or a viewing device, your doctor decides if you have 20/20 vision or if your vision shows signs of impairment.
2. Slit Lamp Examination: A slit lamp is a specialized microscope that allows the doctor to examine the structures of the eye, including the cornea, iris, and lens. This examination helps determine any abnormalities or signs of cataracts.
3. Dilated Eye Examination: During a dilated eye examination, eye drops are used to dilate the pupil, allowing the doctor to get a better view of the lens and other structures at the back of the eye. This enables a more thorough examination of the cataract.
4. Visual Field Test: This test evaluates your peripheral vision, checking for any vision loss that may be associated with advanced cataracts.
5. Optical Coherence Tomography (OCT): OCT produces detailed cross-sectional images of the eye’s structures. It is used to assess the thickness of the retina, macula, and optic nerve, providing extra information about the impact of cataracts on these structures.

Surgery For Cataract

Surgery is suggested when cataracts prevent you from going about your daily activities, like reading or driving. It is also performed when it interferes with the treatment of other eye problems. However, you must consult your doctor about whether surgery is right for you. It is up to you and your doctor to decide when cataract surgery is right for you.

Cataract surgery involves removing and replacing the clouded lens with a clear artificial lens. The artificial lens, known as an intraocular lens, is set in the same place as the natural lens. Cataract surgery is typically done on an outpatient basis, which means you won’t need to stay in the hospital after the surgery.

During cataract surgery, your doctor utilizes a local anesthetic to numb the area around the eye, but you usually stay awake during the procedure. There are different types of cataract surgery techniques, including:

1. Phacoemulsification or Phaco: Phacoemulsification is the most common and widely used method for cataract surgery. It involves making a small incision in the cornea and using an ultrasonic probe to break up the cataract into tiny pieces. The pieces are then suctioned out through the incision, and an IOL is positioned to replace the natural lens.
2. Extracapsular Cataract Extraction (ECCE): ECCE is a traditional surgical technique that involves making a larger incision in the cornea or sclera to extract the cloudy lens in one piece. The anterior capsule of the lens is left untouched, and the IOL is positioned in front of it.
3. Femtosecond Laser-assisted Cataract Surgery (FLACS): FLACS involves using a femtosecond laser to create corneal incisions and open the front portion of the lens capsule. The laser allows for precise and controlled incisions, potentially enhancing the accuracy of the procedure. The femtosecond laser is used to fragment the cataract into smaller, more manageable pieces. This fragmentation assists in the proper removal of the cataract during the surgery.
4. Microincision Cataract Surgery (MICS): MICS is a variation of ECCE that uses a smaller incision. It involves manually removing the central portion of the cataract, leaving the outer shell of the lens intact. An IOL is then inserted through the incision.

The choice of cataract surgery technique depends on various factors, including the severity and characteristics of the cataract, the surgeon’s expertise, the patient’s eye health, etc. Your doctor will evaluate your specific case and recommend the most suitable technique for you. Contact Pristyn Care ophthalmologists in Bangladesh for proper guidance and undergo an effective cataract treatment.

How To Prepare For Cataract Surgery?

Preparing for cataract surgery involves taking specific steps to ensure a smooth and successful procedure. Here are some ways to help you prepare for surgery:

1. Discuss your medications with the doctor: Some medications may increase the risk of bleeding during the procedure or interfere with cataract surgery. Let your doctor know of any medications you may take to treat other conditions. Your doctor may advise you to change the frequency of the dosage or to stop taking it temporarily. Also, do not make any changes to your medication schedule without first speaking with the doctor, mainly if you have diabetes or are on treatment for reflux.
2. Use the eye drops prescribed by the eye specialist: You may be prescribed antibiotic eye drops to begin using a few days before the procedure. Make sure to follow the treatment instructions and apply eye drops as suggested to help prevent any infection. The drops may also be used on the day of the surgery.
3. Do not wear contact lenses: Avoid wearing contact lenses during the three to four days leading up to surgery. Contact lenses can irritate your eye, which could delay the cataract procedure. Therefore, it is always better to wear your eyeglasses instead.
4. Wear comfortable clothes and avoid cosmetics: Wear warm and comfortable clothes on the day of your surgery. Also, avoid wearing any makeup, perfume or cologne, aftershave, spray-on deodorant, or hairspray to the hospital. Thoroughly remove any traces of these, especially from around your eyes, the night before your surgery.
5. Arrange Transportation: Since cataract surgery generally involves the use of anesthesia, it is advisable to arrange for someone to drive you to and from the hospital on the day of the procedure. It is because you may not be able to drive immediately after surgery due to the effects of anesthesia and possible blurry vision.
6. Follow Fasting Guidelines: Your doctor will provide specific fasting instructions, such as avoiding food and drink for a certain period before the surgery. It is essential to follow these instructions to prevent complications during the procedure.
7. Follow Preoperative Instructions: Your doctor will provide detailed instructions on specific preoperative care, such as using prescribed eye drops or avoiding certain activities or cosmetics. Follow these instructions diligently to ensure the best surgical outcomes.

Ask questions: Ask any questions or request clarification from your surgeon if something isn’t clear. Talk to the doctor if you don’t fully understand preoperative instructions, what to expect during the procedure, or how to take care of yourself after.