We used to think that one should wait until the cataract is fully blocking the vision before he or she gets operated on. And when you’re 40 years old and above, you’ll still have to wear reading glasses even after the operation.
But with the modern cataract surgery called phacoemulsification intraocular lens implantation, you don’t have to wait until you’re almost blind because of cataract. And aside from this, those who have myopia (nearsightedness) and hyperopia (farsightedness) can get relief. Even the presbyopia (reading problem) can be addressed, as well.
When should you consider phacoemulsification intraocular lens implantation for multifocal vision? Dr. Noel Jusay Lacsamana, ophthalmologist-surgeon, said you should have the procedure when you are having reduced visual acuity, or problem seeing far and near objects, having daytime and nighttime glare, distortion of lines, monocular diplopia, vision of colors are being altered, and you are having problems reading.
“The elderly and those who have diabetes are at risk of having cataract. Eye injuries, medications such as steroids and genetic factors could also lead to cataract formation. And as we age, we develop presbyopia or problem in reading. Some also have myopia or hyperopia. Therefore, a phacoemulsification intraocular lens implantation is an all-around solution to these problems,” said Lacsamana.
I had my surgery done by Lacsamana last January 29, 2020, at his modern and well-equipped International Eye Center in San Fernando, Pampanga. Lacsamana also did the eyes of comedian and TV host Jimmy Santos and rock singer Pepe Smith.
The eye’s internal lens is emulsified with an ultrasonic eyepiece to aspirate the cataract. The aspirated fluid will be replaced with (irrigation of) balanced salt solution to maintain the anterior chamber.
Lacsamana’s precise and calm hands made it easier for the machine to do its job of removing the lens fibers, which form the nucleus and cortex of the cataract. The posterior epithelial capsule was left to hold the new artificial intraocular lens and to keep the vitreous humor away from the anterior chamber.
Before the procedure, Alex Torres, Lacsamana’s assistant, tested my visual acuity and measured my eye grade through their machines. An Internal Medicine doctor was present to check my heart condition and blood pressure. A patient who will undergo this eye surgery should avoid taking blood thinners, vitamin E and ginkgo biloba a week before the procedure. I was given eye drops to dilate my pupils.
I changed to surgical clothes when I was ready to be operated on. I was asked to lie down on a modern operating table and told to directly look to a bright light while my left eye (and then right) was held by a wire speculum to keep it from blinking. Lacsamana put topical anesthesia in my eyes and I could hardly feel anything while the surgery was ongoing. What I felt was a bit of poking, but there was no pain. My eyes were irrigated with topical antibiotics and salt solution during the operation. After removing the cataract, Lacsamana placed the intraocular lens, small plastic lens with haptics to attach itself to the capsular bag of the eyes. Lacsamana was playing soft music while operating on me which made me feel relaxed. In six minutes, both eyes were successfully operated on. And the next day, I was already back to work.
Medical eye drops should be placed on the newly operated eyes religiously. Goggles should be worn to protect the eyes. “Do not rub your eyes,” warned Lacsamana.
To properly put the eye drops, tilt your head back slightly and look up. Pull your lower eyelid down away from the eye. Hold the dropper tip directly over the eyelid pocket and squeeze the bottle gently as you let the eye drop fall into the pocket. Gently close your eyes once to help absorb the medicine.
While you are recovering from the surgery, avoid strenuous activities like swimming, and don’t drive or operate machineries especially when you just put eye drops.
It is indeed life-changing to see clearly. If you want to consider this surgery or if you have questions on your eyes, consult Lacsamana at the International Eye Center at the 2nd floor of Robinsons Star Mills, San Fernando, Pampanga. You can send your messages via his mobile phone: 0920.909.9937 or Facebook Page: Dr. Noel Jusay Lacsamana.
Radyo Klinika is a KBP Golden Dove awardee for Best radio Magazine Program in 2016. Its host, Marou Pahati-Sarne, was a recipient of the KBP Golden Dove awarde for Best Radio Magazine Host in 2016 and 2017. Radyo Klinika airs every Tuesday to Friday, 7:00 to 8:00 p.m. on Dwiz 882 KHZ AM and on Facebook Page: Dwiz 882.
