Among the common surgical procedures in ophthalmology, cataract surgery is undoubtedly the most well-known. Is it a refractive surgery ? And first, what does this term really mean? Answers from the Néovision Clinic.
What is refractive surgery?
This type of procedure aims to correct ametropias, that is, visual impairments related to a problem with light refraction in the eye. This issue is caused by a dysfunction of the lens-retina-cornea system.
Refractive surgery also aims to free the patient from wearing glasses or contact lenses.
What is cataract and how is it operated on?
Cataract is age-related and caused by clouding of the lens. Most often appearing after age 65, this condition leads to loss of visual acuity, blurred vision, and difficulties for the eye to adjust when moving from a dark environment to a much brighter one, for example.
Cataract surgery used to consist of completely removing the lens, which then required wearing glasses with very strong prescriptions. Today, other techniques exist, including refractive procedures.
How is refractive surgery performed in case of cataract?
Cataract surgery is considered refractive only if the procedure includes a corrective aspect, resulting in improved vision. Essentially, it’s about killing two birds with one stone.
For the best results, it's ideal to operate on the cataract in its early stages, before the visual symptoms become truly bothersome. Refractive surgery then involves removing the lens through a small incision and replacing it with an implant that acts as an "internal lens."
What happens during refractive surgery?
The procedure is outpatient, meaning the patient arrives at the clinic in the morning and leaves the same day. This quick turnaround is due to the absence of major intervention and general anesthesia. Refractive surgery is performed under local anesthesia and lasts only about twenty minutes.
Can the type of refractive surgery be chosen?
In the context of refractive cataract surgery, the procedure involves the placement of an implant. It is entirely possible to prioritize near or distant vision depending on the patient's expectations, profession, passions... For instance, distance vision can be favored if the person drives a lot, or near vision if they are passionate about reading or crossword puzzles.
How to opt for refractive surgery at the beginning of cataract?
Whatever visual impairment you have, the first step is to make an appointment with a qualified ophthalmologist. The Néovision Clinic welcomes you and conducts a preoperative assessment, during which the practitioner reviews your medical history, evaluates your vision, and discusses your expectations. However, keep in mind that refractive surgery is neither always possible nor miraculous.
