Post-Cataract Surgery: Addressing Vision Issues and Discomfort

Q: Post-Cataract Surgery: Addressing Vision Issues and Discomfort

Hello Pierce： 1. There is no need for surgery on the left eye anymore. 2. Adjustments cannot be made unless the lens is removed and replaced, but this is not recommended. 3. Surgery is not advised. 4. If you do not want laser treatment, you may conside

Postoperative issues after cataract surgery?

Dear Doctor,
I have undergone cataract surgery on my left eye.
Post-surgery, I wear plano lenses for my left eye (with astigmatism of 100 degrees) and continue to wear -4.00 diopter lenses for my right eye, which is nearsighted.
I have no other issues, but when wearing glasses (left eye 0.00, right eye -4.00), I frequently experience dryness, headaches, dizziness, and a feeling of pressure in my eyes, regardless of whether I am looking at distant or near objects.

1.
Is it possible to perform another surgery on my left eye to leave a refractive error of -3.00 or -4.00 diopters for better vision?
2.
Can the artificial lens in my left eye be adjusted to accommodate this refractive error?
3.
What is the approximate cost of the surgery?
4.
I do not wish to undergo laser treatment for my right eye, but I am open to wearing glasses for distance vision.
I kindly request your advice on how to proceed.
Thank you.

Pierce, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2015/08/11

Dr. Gao Pilin reply Ophthalmology

Hello Pierce: 1.
There is no need for surgery on the left eye anymore.
2.
Adjustments cannot be made unless the lens is removed and replaced, but this is not recommended.
3.
Surgery is not advised.
4.
If you do not want laser treatment, you may consider wearing contact lenses for the right eye, or you can also replace the artificial lens in the left eye, but if there is no cataract, it will be out-of-pocket expenses.
You can consult the surgeon who performed the left eye surgery.
The ophthalmology department at Puzi Hospital in Taiwan is open Monday to Friday from 8:00 AM to 12:00 PM and Wednesday afternoons from 1:00 PM to 4:30 PM.
We hope to have the opportunity to serve you.
Gao Pi-Lin

Reply Date: 2015/08/11

More Info

Post-cataract surgery vision issues can be quite common, and it's understandable that you're experiencing discomfort and other symptoms after your procedure. Let’s address your concerns one by one.

1. Dryness and Discomfort: The symptoms you describe, such as dryness, headaches, dizziness, and a feeling of pressure in the eyes, can be attributed to several factors. After cataract surgery, it’s not unusual for patients to experience dry eyes, especially if they had pre-existing conditions. The surgery itself can also temporarily disrupt the tear film. To alleviate these symptoms, consider using artificial tears or lubricating eye drops regularly. If symptoms persist, consult your ophthalmologist for further evaluation and possible treatment options.

2. Revising the Left Eye Prescription: Regarding your question about whether the left eye can be re-operated to adjust for a prescription of -300 or -400 degrees, it is essential to discuss this with your eye surgeon. In some cases, it is possible to perform a secondary procedure to adjust the power of the intraocular lens (IOL) if the initial outcome does not meet the patient's needs. However, this decision depends on various factors, including the health of your eye and the specific type of IOL used.

3. Adjusting the Intraocular Lens: The ability to adjust the power of the IOL after surgery is limited. Most standard IOLs are fixed-focus, meaning they cannot be adjusted post-operatively. However, some advanced IOLs, such as multifocal or accommodating lenses, may offer more flexibility in terms of vision correction. If you feel that your vision is not optimal, a thorough examination by your ophthalmologist will help determine the best course of action.

4. Cost of Additional Surgery: The cost of any additional surgery will vary based on your location, the specific procedure, and whether you have insurance coverage. It’s best to consult with your healthcare provider or the surgical center for an accurate estimate. They can provide you with detailed information regarding the costs involved, including any potential out-of-pocket expenses.

5. Wearing Glasses for Distance: If you prefer to wear glasses for distance vision rather than undergoing laser surgery for your right eye, that is a perfectly acceptable choice. Many individuals successfully manage their vision with glasses after cataract surgery. It’s essential to have a proper prescription that accommodates both eyes, especially since you have different prescriptions for each eye.

6. Follow-Up Care: Regular follow-up appointments with your ophthalmologist are crucial after cataract surgery. They can monitor your healing process, address any ongoing discomfort, and make necessary adjustments to your treatment plan. If you continue to experience significant discomfort or vision issues, do not hesitate to reach out to your doctor for further evaluation.

In summary, while it’s common to experience some discomfort after cataract surgery, persistent symptoms should be addressed with your ophthalmologist. They can provide tailored advice and treatment options based on your specific situation. Remember, your comfort and vision quality are paramount, and there are various avenues to explore to improve your post-surgery experience.

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