The Operation
Advanced cataract surgery is usually performed with a topical anesthetic drops in the eye, and an anesthesiologist is present to give some mild intravenous sedation. The patient is awake during the operation, but somewhat drowsy. Drapes are placed over the eye, and oxygen is supplied through plastic tubing.
The operation lasts about 15 minutes. With the help of the ultrasound, or "phacoemulsification" the cataract is broken up and gently removed from the eye. Some people refer to this technique as "laser cataract surgery" but it actually is done with high frequency sound waves. This is a delicate operation requiring considerable experience and skill to achieve a good result. Often tiny additional incisions are needed to reduce astigmatism. Dr. Haight uses a sutureless clear corneal technique to minimize discomfort, eliminate bleeding, and allow fast healing.
A lens implant is placed inside the eye during cataract surgery, replacing the eye’s natural lens. Cataract surgery allows sharper vision, better color vision, and can correct myopia, hyperopia, and astigmatism. Many patients feel that after cataract surgery they see better than they ever have during their whole life!