A cataract is a cloudiness of the eye's natural lens, which lies between the front and back areas of the eye.

2. Are cataracts found only in older people? What are the different causes of cataract?

Majority of the cataracts are age related. About half of the population has a cataract by age 65 years.  But in rare cases, infants can have congenital cataracts. These are usually related to the mother having German measles, chickenpox, or another infectious disease during pregnancy, but sometimes they are inherited. Eye trauma, such as from a puncture wound, may also result in cataracts.

3. My doctor says I have a cataract, when should I get my surgery done?

The modern techniques do not require the cataract to mature & ripen for the decision of surgery. Whenever, the cataract happens to interfere with your lifestyle that would be the time when the surgery should be planned out. By lifestyle is meant when you feel that you are having problem or difficulty in carrying out your personal & professional visual needs to your requirements that should be the time when surgery should be opted for. For example, if you are unable to drive safely because of cataract formation it would be wise to have them removed. Some patients may need cataracts removed for medical reasons; for example, if a patient is diabetic and the cataract is interfering with the ophthalmologist's examination of the retina, then it may be recommended to the patient to have the cataract removed.

4. Is cataract surgery serious?

All surgery involves some risk, so yes, it is serious. However, cataract surgery is the most commonly performed type of surgery in India. Many cataract surgeons have several thousand procedures under their belt. Choosing a surgeon with this much experience will reduce the risk of something going wrong.

5. How is a cataract removed?

 A small incision is made into the eye. Dr. Rohit Om Parkash uses an ultrasound machine {INFINITI VISION SYSTEM} wherein torsional emulsification is used to break it up, and then remove it. The back membrane of the lens (called the posterior capsule) is left in place. Usually, a replacement lens called an Intra Ocular Lens is used.

What are the symptoms of Cataract?

A cataract starts out small, and at first has little effect on your vision. You may notice that your vision is blurred a little, like looking through a cloudy piece of glass. Colors may not appear as bright as they once did

The most common symptoms of a cataract are:

• Cloudy or blurry vision.

• Problems with light, such as headlights that seem too bright, glare from lamps or very bright sunlight.

• Colors that seem faded.

• Poor night vision.

• Double or multiple vision. 

• Frequent changes in glasses or contact lenses.

How is a cataract detected?

If you notice any of the symptoms described previously, go to have an eye exam. By performing it, the Ophthalmologist will know if you have a cataract. Your eye doctor will perform a thorough examination of your eyes. Glare testing and contrast sensitivity tests are sometimes used. There is no single objective test to determine a need for cataract surgery. The final decision for cataract surgery is made by the patient and depends on how much the decreased vision from the cataract is bothersome.

What Causes a Cataract?

No one knows for sure why the eye's lens changes as we age, forming cataracts. Researchers are gradually identifying factors that may cause cataracts — and information that may help to prevent them.

Many studies suggest that exposure to ultraviolet light is associated with cataract development, so eye care practitioners recommend wearing UV sunglasses and a wide-brimmed hat to lessen your exposure.

Other studies suggest people with diabetes are at risk for developing a cataract. The same goes for users of steroids, diuretics and major tranquilizers, but more studies are needed to distinguish the effect of the disease from the consequences of the drugs themselves.

Some believe that a diet high in antioxidants, such as beta-carotene (vitamin A), selenium and vitamins C and E, may forestall cataract development. Meanwhile, eating a lot of salt may increase your risk.

Other risk factors may include cigarette smoke, air pollution and heavy alcohol consumption. A small study published in 2002 found lead exposure to be a risk factor; another study in December 2004, of 795 men age 60 and older, came to a similar conclusion. But larger studies are needed to confirm whether lead can definitely put you at risk, and if so, whether the risk is from a one-time dose at a particular time in life or from chronic exposure over years.

How can a Cataract be treated?

At first, a change in your eyeglass change of glasses may be all that is needed. This may improve your vision temporarily. There are no medications or eye drops that will cause cataracts to disappear. When you are unable to do the things you like doing, or you are unable to pass your drivers license exam, cataract surgery should be considered.

In other words, think about surgery when your cataracts have progressed enough to affect your lifestyle. Whenever you feel your visual disturbance because of cataract is not allowing you to carry about your professional & personal work to your satisfaction it is at that stage when surgery should be considered.

Cataract surgery is very successful in restoring vision. Nine out of 10 people who have cataract surgery regain very good vision, somewhere between 20/20 and 20/40. Cataracts can only be removed with surgery.

Are lasers sometimes used in Cataract surgery?

YAG lasers are used in a later procedure to create a clear opening in the lens-containing membrane, if the membrane becomes cloudy in the months following the original cataract removal. Also, some doctors use a laser to break up the cloudy lens before removing it. However, the more efficient method is the Ultrasonic Phacoemulsification.

Dr. Rohit is using Torsional Emulsification which happens to be the latest in Phacoemulsification.

7. My father had cataract surgery a few years ago, and he had to wear thick glasses afterward. Is this still necessary?

Nowadays, cataract patients who have intraocular lenses (IOLs) implanted during surgery may need reading glasses for close vision, but that's about it. In fact, with the newer multifocal IOLs, even reading glasses are unnecessary. People who don't receive IOLs wear contact lenses for distance vision, with reading glasses for close up. Or they may wear multifocal contact lenses for all distances. Rarely does anyone have to wear thick eyeglasses now. [Read more about the new Restor multifocal IOL]

8. How much does cataract surgery cost?

It varies from one doctor to the next; it also depends on the eyewear that is prescribed.

How successful is Cataract Surgery?

Cataract surgery has an overall success rate of over 99 percent at Dr. Om Parkash Eye Institute

9. What are possible side effects of cataract surgery?

As with any surgery, pain, infection, swelling, and bleeding are possible, but very few patients experience serious problems. Your surgeon may prescribe medications for these effects.

Retinal detachment also occurs in a few people. Be on the lookout for excessive pain, vision loss, or nausea, and report these symptoms to your eye surgeon immediately.

What about pre-existing conditions?

Even with successful cataract surgery your eye may not see as well as you would like. Other problems like macular degeneration, glaucoma and diabetes may limit vision after surgery. Even with such problems cataract surgery may be beneficial. If your eyes are healthy, the chances of restoring good vision following cataract surgery are excellent

Can I be too young or old for Cataract Surgery?

Any patient who can undergo a thorough eye examination can undergo surgery if the procedure is performed with topical anesthetic-drops alone.

 Will I be able to have both eyes treated at the same time?

Surgery can be performed on both eyes on the same day if we conclude you are a good candidate. However, Dr. Rohit Om Parkash prefers to do one at a time.

 Does the cataract have to be “ripe” prior to surgery?

No, the cataract has to be visually significant before cataract surgery. The longer the cataract is in the eye, the harder it is to remove.

Do you offer payment options?

Our Accounts Coordinator will be happy to discuss financing information based on your personal needs. Check with your human resources department for any insurance plan so that you can have a cashless procedure done. Credit Cards are also accepted

How is the surgery done?

After drops are used to numb the eye, a small, less than 3mm, incision is made. Special microsurgical instruments are used to break up and suction the lens fragments from the eye (phacoemulsification). The back portion of the lens capsule is left in place and polished for clarity. A small foldable intraocular lens will be inserted through the wound and unfolded in place of the natural lens. The incision is self-sealing so that no stitches are needed.

 Does Cataract surgery hurt?

Generally cataract surgery does not hurt. Cataract surgery is performed by Dr.Rohit Om Parkash with a local anesthetic therefore you shouldn’t feel anything. Occasionally, you might feel some slight discomfort. If you should experience any discomfort, please make your doctor aware.

Are there any restrictions after surgery?

After surgery you may return to your normal activities. You may bend, stoop over, go up and down stairs, watch TV, read or work in the garden as usual. You may take showers and shampoo your hair. However, the most important instruction to remember is DO NOT RUB YOUR EYE for at least one week after surgery, and do not go swimming for two weeks after surgery.

What about appointments after surgery?

You will be seen by one of our Doctors the day after surgery. An appointment will then be made for you subsequently.

When will I start seeing after surgery?

You will start seeing the moment you get up after the surgery the extent of which may vary in different individuals’.

How soon can I drive after the surgery?

We will require that you have someone drive you home following your procedure. However, you may drive when you feel comfortable enough to drive safely, possibly the next day.

Do I have to avoid all activities post-operatively?

We typically demonstrate to the patients that they can bend over immediately after surgery, pick up 20-30 pounds, and shower, provided they don't get water into their operative eye. We do ask that they wear an eye shield at bedtime for the first few weeks after surgery so they do not inadvertently rub the eye during sleep. Typical follow-up evaluations are scheduled at 1 day, 3 day, 2 week, 5 weeks and as and when required.

When will glasses be prescribed?

Temporary glasses can be prescribed on the 4^th day. 90% people do not require any change of glasses. However, glasses are traditionally prescribed between the 3rd and 6th week visit

Will I still need glasses or contact lenses?

You may need glasses or other corrective lenses after the procedure on a temporary or permanent basis. Cataract surgery will not prevent, and may unmask, the need for reading glasses

Is cataract surgery performed with a laser?

No, cataracts are removed with rapid frequency sound waves called ultrasound. A laser, however, is used in other areas of treatment for the eye.

How long will I be at the Dr. Om Parkash Eye Institute for my cataract surgery?

The surgical procedure itself takes approximately 8to15 minutes, but cataract surgery patients can expect to be at  the institute approximately two to four hours for the preparation and recovery period.

Will I receive a lens implant?

Yes, an intraocular lens (IOL) implant is used to replace the human lens. This prevents the patient from wearing thick glasses or contact lenses after cataract surgery.