Potential Complications of Cataract Surgery: what you need to know

Cataract surgery is the most widely performed operation in the Western world, with millions being done each year. While the risks are minimal, there are—naturally—a range of potential complications that affect a very small number of people.

Your cataract surgeon will discuss these with you. If you have certain pre-existing conditions, such as diabetes or AMD (age-related macular degeneration), then there will also be additional risks that, again, will be addressed.

It should be stressed that complications following a cataract procedure are rare. But it’s essential that you’re informed about them before you sign a consent form.

Cataract Surgery Complications

• The most common cataract surgery complications
• How cataract surgery complications are treated
• Rare cataract surgery complications 

The most common cataract surgery complications

As already mentioned, post-surgery complications are increased in those who suffer from a range of eye conditions. However, it’s important not to get too hung up on these because, if this is a factor, you can be sure that your eye doctor/surgeon will talk about this in detail before the procedure takes place.

The following are some of the pre-existing conditions that can raise the risk of complications:

• Diabetic retinopathy
• AMD
• A previous retinal detachment
• A previous vitrectomy
• Corneal opacity/pathology
• Alpha blockade

There is also a slightly increased risk in females, as well as increasing as you get older.

Now that you know what can increase the risk (albeit by usually a very small percentage), let’s look at some of the more common complications that might occur.

• Posterior capsule opacification (PCO): This is by far the most common complication and occurs in up to 25% of people who’ve undergone cataract surgery. It’s often mistakenly referred to as a “secondary cataract”. This is because weeks, months, or even years after surgery, symptoms begin to occur again. These include blurring and clouding of vision. It’s caused by proteins clumping together on the small part of the lens capsule that the artificial lens is attached to. Happily, the condition is easily rectified with a simple, 5-minute procedure, known as YAG laser. Once done, the problem is sorted.
• Discomfort, bruising, and swelling: Any or all of these can occur post-surgery and are a result of the trauma of the operation. This usually subsides within 48-72 hours and is managed with mild analgesia.
• Increased intraocular pressure: if this occurs it will be monitored and treated accordingly. 
• Allergic reaction: Steroid and antibiotic eye drops are used post-op.  Most reactions are mild and simply need monitoring or an antihistamine to counteract any itching or redness. 

How cataract surgery complications are treated

You’ll return to the doctor’s office 24-48 hours after your cataract surgery. This is so you can be monitored for any postoperative complications and—if necessary—treatment can be instigated.

Rare cataract surgery complications 

There are some much rarer complications that occur in a small minority of people. These include:

• Tearing or detachment of the retina: More likely in those who are highly myopic, have early cataracts, or a history of retinopathy. 
• Lens dislocation: This is where the artificial lens moves position. It usually occurs soon after the operation and requires further surgery to relocate it.
• Vitreous hemorrhage: Rare but sight-threatening, this requires immediate treatment.
• Cystoid macular edema: Occurs within 6-8 weeks after the operation and involves increased fluid within the cellular spaces within the eye. Symptoms include decreasing central vision.
• Endophthalmitis: Caused by an infectious organism gaining entry to the eye.

While these all sound very worrying, rest assured that today’s techniques are incredibly efficient at reducing the risk of all post-op complications. The key to a successful post-operative outcome is to undergo surgery at the time that it’s advised and to look after your overall well-being to the best of your ability. This, combined with the skill of a great cataract surgeon, means the chance of a successful outcome is incredibly high.

Reduce Risk with the Surgical Expertise on Offer at the Modern Cataract Surgery Clinic

The Modern Cataract Surgery Clinic is one of (if not the) best facilities in the country to undergo a cataract operation. Why is that? Because it’s headed by one of the world’s most preeminent cataract surgeons—Brent Bellotte MD.

Regarded by his peers as one of the leading global figures in all things cataract, he’s played a pivotal role in advancing cataract operational procedures and bringing them to the mainstream. From using the latest advanced IOLs to carrying out cutting-edge cataract operations on some of the most complex patients, Bellotte and his team offer a world-class service.

When you entrust your precious eyesight to the Modern Cataract Surgery Clinic, you can rest assured that you really are in great hands.

Discover more at https://www.moderncataractsurgery.com