Cataract
FAQ
In case that you have monofocal intraocular lenses implanted into your eye than yes. The standard dioptre difference between seeing into distance and close-up is 2.5 dioptres. As such, if you see well into the distance without glasses then you shall require glasses for reading at the value of +2.5 dioptres. In case that you see well close-up you shall require glasses to see into the distance at the value of −2.5 dioptres.
The durability of intraocular lenses that are implanted into your eye during a cataract surgery is unlimited. High quality implants have lasting optical as well as biological properties and as such there is no need to exchange them.
Cataract surgery is not recommended on both eyes simultaneously. Usually each eye is operated on separately. This increases safety and ensures higher precision of the entire procedure. The surgery regulations vary among different clinics considering each case independently and considering the overall health status of the eyes as well as the patient in question.
Your vision should be restored completely with hours to several days post-surgery (in case that your eyes are otherwise healthy). The stabilisation of your vision depends on the healing process and is largely individual taking anything between one week to one month.
Infection is a rare possible complication. It is absolutely crucial to follow closely the post-surgery hygienic rules and recommendations of your surgeon. Other possible post-surgery complications are also swelling, bleeding or temporary increase in the intra-ocular pressure. All of the above complications are fixable, but it is important to see your surgeon immediately and commence treatment.
Cataract surgery is a treatment method of a standard ailment and as such you are entitled to sick-leave. It’s length depends on the specific job of the patient in question as well as on the length of the post-surgery healing process. It is usually anything between 1 to 2 weeks but can also be as long as several months depending on the convalescence. Post-surgery complications related to exceedingly hasty return to employment may costs hundreds of Euros.
In case that you are diagnosed with cataract and being a citizen of the Czech Republic then the procedure is fully covered by your standard health insurance policy. The procedure is always covered by health insurance, however differences in the payment by the insurance provider may arise only in case of a specific type of implanted intraocular lenses.
There really does not exist an ophthalmological contra-indication when cataract surgery is in question. The only obstacle may be a poor physical or psychical condition of the patient. When undergoing the procedure in the summertime it is important to take into account the intensity of sunlight as well as to adjust vacation-making plans. Modern lenses contain UV filter meaning that your eyes are safe, however the sunlight intensity may be unpleasant and as such a number of patients opt to use sunglasses not only in the summertime.
Diabetes does not stop you from undergoing a cataract surgery. The incidence of cataract is higher as such in patients with diabetes. It is important to consider other possible forms of damaging the eyes, or, where applicable, adjust medication. A patient with diabetes should come in for surgery in optimal health condition.
What is of utmost importance is increased care to hygiene. Washing your face carries no risk (with the exception of contaminated water). We recommend that you refrain from using cosmetic products (make-up, mascara) for 2‒4 weeks. This is more so to avoid irritation of the eyes when removing such make-up. Water or water with soap or shampoo may irritate the eyes but will not damage them.
Swimming is forbidden. It is recommended to refrain from bending over and from physical strain – for example power training. Running on softer ground and light forms of sports are ok post-surgery. We do not recommend running on hard surfaces for 2‒4 weeks post-surgery.
Driving a car post-surgery largely depends how well you can see. If the patient sees well, then there is nothing stopping you from driving as soon as several days post-surgery. In case that is necessary to adjust your vision using glasses then once your glasses are made available to you. Normally it applies that only a driver in good health may drive a vehicle. This applies also where vision is concerned. In drivers by employment (especially where public transportation is concerned), it is the employer who decides when a driver is fit to start working again.
Televisions as well as computers emit light and radiation and as such it is recommended to dim your screens. When watching television, working on the computer or reading it is advisable to use common sense – once you register your eyes tiring, you should allow rest.
The general rule is that cataract does not re-emerge, but a so-called secondary cataract may appear. It is a condition caused by scarring changes to the original posterior capsule of your natural lens within your eye. This can result a cloudy vision. The problem can be solved immediately by a laser or a surgical procedure.
A possible complication may also be a halo effect in the eye – it is when you register spreading circular phenomenon around lights. These are usually re-absorbed by the brain and cease bothering you. Night and twilight vision worsen in itself when you have cataract and as such once an intraocular lens implantation is undergone the patient does not register worsening in night vision.
Experienced doctors
At our clinic you will only meet experienced specialists who love what they do and will find pleasure in helping you find the best solution for your eyes.
We care about our patients
The team at the Refractive Center Prague is primarily concerned with helping patients rediscover the pleasure of good eyesight. Rest assured knowing that you will be given the best possible care.
Pleasant surroundings
Our patients appreciate that examinations take place in pleasant, modern settings that are a far cry from what one might expect from a health facility. The friendly staff is there for you – should you want a cup of tea or a reassuring chat.