Eye Surgery Occurs At All Ages

Eye surgery is a surgical procedure performed on the eye by a trained doctor of ophthalmology, or ophthalmologist. Eye surgery is also commonly referred to as ocular surgery or ophthalmic surgery or ocular surgery.

It is generally performed to remove cataracts or, in the case of retinal defects or torn eye muscles, repair them. The resoration or improvement of vision is the primary goal of most eye surgeries.

Age is no bar for an eye surgery as young and old alike may experience eye conditions that require surgical intervention on the eye. The two of the most common eye surgery procedures are cataract surgeries and elective refractive surgeries.

The most comon eye surgery is cataract surgery, with greater than a million and a half cataract surgeries performed in the U.S. every year. According to the National Eye Institute (NEI), U.S. residents over the age of 65 have a 50% chance of a cataract.

Refractive procedures which are generally elective, such as LASIK to improve vision, are primarily performed on younger patients. The American Academy of Ophthalmology (AAO) recently estimated that about 1.7 million of the refractive surgeries performed each year are LASIK, representing 95% of all refractive surgery.

Since the eye is probably the most delicate organ of our body, a lot of pre and post surgical preparations are necessary. An initial examination is conducted on a patient who complains of any ocular problem that normally requires surgery. This includes a comprehensive patient history with information provided about allergies, family history, current medications, and special vision requirements for work or other activities. The eye surgery must be done by an experienced ophthalmologist with the responsibility for for conducting the procedure satisfactorily.

The correct anesthesia, usually a local anesthesia to eliminate the sensation of pain, is a prime requisite for eye surgery. General anesthesia is commonly used for children, or in the event of a traumatic eye injury or for high-risk patients. There is always a dedicated team for cardiovascular monitoring which is preferable in local anesthesia and mandatory for general anesthesia. The surgery environment is prepared following sterile procedures - including use of sterile drapes, gloves and gowns.

After any eye surgery, the patient is kept under observation. Rest is required for at least 24 hours and a follow up visit to the ophthalmologist takes place the next day. Pain relievers are usually prescribed and these should never be taken with out the doctor's advice, as some of them may interfere with surgical outcomes. Ice packs are often used to help ease pain.

Slight drooping or bruising of the eye is sometimes experienced after an eye surgery. This condition gradually improves with healing. If this patient experiences any nausea, vomiting or pain, it should be reported immediately. Caution should be exercised following surgery for certain physical activities, in particular lifting, stooping, swimming or exercising. An eye shield should be worn at night to avoid rubbing the eyes while sleeping. It is advisable to wear sunglasses during the day due to extra sensitivity to light. The surgeon must also clear the patient for driving and possibly air travel.