Cataracts
A cataract is caused by the lens of the eye becoming fogged over, resulting in hazy vision for the patient. Cataract development is gradual, age-related, diabetes related, and treatable.
Cataract Surgery
This is a fairly routine, straightforward surgery. It is done on an outpatient basis, with only local anesthetic.
Usually, the incision made is only 3 mm wide, at the edge of the iris. Because the incision is so tiny, the lens must be removed in pieces. To break up the lens, the surgeon often uses ultrasound, but a lasers and mechanical means are also available. The pieces of lens are then vacuumed away.
The surgeon leaves the micrometer thin capuscular bag, to hold the intraocular lens.
Next comes the intraocular lens, folded to fit through the 3 mm hole. It is inserted, unfolded, and the patient will heal without stitches.