Best Cataract Surgeons In Kolkata

What is cataract surgery?

Cataract surgery is a common surgical procedure performed to treat the clouding of the eye's lens that leads to the impairment of vision. The surgeon initiates the procedure by removing the cloudy lens and replacing it with an artificial intraocular lens (IOL). The surgery is performed usually under local anesthesia like any other surgical procedure. The surgery is often quick and minimally invasive and only takes less than 30 minutes. The recovery after cataract surgery is quite fast with most patients experiencing better vision within days. There are very rare complications linked to cataract surgery but can include infection or inflammation. Cataract surgery is extremely thriving as it helps restore clear vision and improve the quality of life for millions of people across the world dealing with clouding eye problems.

If you are looking for cataract surgery in Kolkata, book your appointment with one of the best surgeons at The CMRI. They will ensure proper diagnosis and the right treatment solutions. 

Types of cataracts

Cataracts have different types, each affecting vision distinctively. Here are these types: 

• Nuclear cataracts: They occur in the lens center, causing nearsightedness or improved reading vision at the beginning, but later leads to reduced vision.
• Cortical cataracts: This type starts as wedge-shaped opacities on the lens periphery, slowly spreading inward and causing glare and problems with contrast sensitivity.
• Posterior subcapsular cataracts: Form at the back of the lens, this type causes halos around lights, and issues while reading.
• Congenital cataracts: Present at birth or evolved during childhood, possibly causing serious visual impairment if not treated immediately.

Why is cataract surgery performed?

Cataract surgery is performed mainly for the removal of cataracts, which are cloudy areas that grow in the eye lens leading to vision issues. These cloudy areas can occur because of several factors that include aging, injury to the eye, medications, or medical conditions such as diabetes. Here are some common symptoms of cataracts indicating the need for surgery:

• Blurry Vision
• Difficulty Seeing at Night
• Sensitivity to Light
• Faded Colors
• Halos Around Lights
• Double Vision
• Frequent Changes in Eyeglass Prescription

What are the pre-instructions of cataract surgery?

Patients are usually guided to restrict from eating or drinking for a particular period before the procedure, often beginning at midnight the night before the surgery. They are also instructed to discontinue some medications, specifically blood thinners, as prescribed by their doctor. In addition, patients are often instructed to arrange transportation to and from the surgical center or get someone along with them, as they cannot drive themselves home after the surgery is done. It's important to follow any particular guidelines provided by the surgeon regarding medications, eye drops, and other preparations to confirm a thriving outcome and reduce the risk of complications.

What happens during cataract surgery?

During cataract surgery, an outpatient procedure is often performed under local anesthesia to remove the cloudy lens of the eye and replace it with an artificial lens known as an intraocular lens (IOL). Here is how the cataract surgery is performed:

• Preparation: Local anesthesia is given to numb the eye, and the area around the eye is cleaned. The medication is given to the patient to help them relax.
• Incision: A small incision is initiated in the cornea or the clear, dome-shaped surface casing the eye’s front.
• Capsulorhexis: A circular opening is formed in the thin, clear capsule surrounding the natural lens.
• Phacoemulsification: With the use of a tiny probe, ultrasound waves are employed to break up the cloudy lens into small pieces, suctioned out of the eye.
• Insertion of Intraocular Lens (IOL): After the removal of the natural lens, the surgeon starts inserting the artificial IOL into the lens capsule, where it unfurls and remains in place.
• Closure: The incision is often self-sealing and does not need stitches. A protective shield is involved to cover the area. 

What does recovery look like after cataract surgery?

Recovery after cataract surgery is usually smooth and relatively patients do not experience discomfort. However, patients might come across some mild discomfort, itching, or a gritty sensation in the treated eye during the immediate hours following the procedure. Eye drops recommended by the surgeon assist in preventing infection and support healing. Most patients can resume normal activities within a day or two, though hardcore activities should be restricted initially. Vision may be blurry or fluctuate in the beginning, but it slowly improves over the following days and weeks as the eye recovers and adjusts to the new intraocular lens. Follow-up appointments ensure proper healing and ideal visual outcomes.

What is the cataract operation cost in Kolkata?

The cost of cataract surgery might differ depending on factors like the hospital or clinic picked, the surgeon's expertise, and the type of intraocular lens (IOL) chosen. However, cataract surgery costs range from INR 15,000 to INR 50,000 per eye on average. Patients are recommended to inquire directly with hospitals or clinics for particular pricing and package details.

Why should you choose The CMRI for cataract surgery in Kolkata?

The Calcutta Medical Research Institute (CMRI) is one of the largest multispecialty hospitals in Kolkata. Our hospital is equipped with state-of-the-art technology, revolutionizing the healthcare industry for the best surgical outcomes. If you are looking for the best cataract surgeon in Kolkata, we are your one-stop solution. In addition, CMRI has several eminent specialists, doctors, and healthcare providers of national and international reputations for comprehensive and personalized treatment. CMRI provides patient-centric care and empathy from internationally trained nurses to ensure holistic care for patients. Here are a few advantages of choosing the CMRI for cataract surgery in Kolkata: 

• Highly qualified and experienced doctors
• 440-bed capacity along with cutting-edge technology and the latest medical equipment
• Hygienic and patient-friendly infrastructure
• Thorough screening and diagnosis
• Transparent Pricing Structure for cost-effective treatment
• Patient-centric, high-quality care for a high success rate
• Pain management and palliative care
• Complete and coordinated care for patients with all types of cataracts.