Draft V2
Cataract surgery was a significant chapter in my life, one that transformed my vision and, ultimately, my perspective. Before the procedure, my world was increasingly cloudy, making even the simplest tasks challenging. Reading, driving, and enjoying the beauty around me began to feel like distant memories.
“Cataracts are a natural clouding of the lens inside the eye that can happen with age. Cataract surgery is the only way to get rid of a cataract and sharpen your eyesight in the process,” Dr. says.
This is my personal experience with cataract surgery on my Left eye at RIPAS hospital, Brunei. I was nervous, maybe because I have amphibio and white coat syndrome.
That clouding effect keeps your eye from taking in the light like it used to. Cataracts can cause your vision to become blurry, foggy or filmy. It can also cause a sensitivity to light and cause glare, halo vision and even double vision.
Prep-Cataract evaluation: My symptoms before surgery
- Dry eye – I have been prescribed eye drops for several years
- Night myopia – blurred vision only at night
- Floaters obstructing my field of vision especially looking at a white wall
My doctor advised me that Cataracts can cause your vision to become blurry, foggy or filmy. It can also cause a sensitivity to light and cause glare, halo vision and even double vision.
Before the procedure – I had several eye exams by ophthalmologists at the Hospital Eye Clinic. The purpose was to find out the extent of the cataract. They also assessed the overall health of my eye.
On the day of the surgery, the staff was incredibly supportive. They walked me through each step, ensuring that I felt comfortable and informed. When the procedure began, I was surprised by how quickly it was over. I was in and out in no time, and before I knew it, I was on my way to recovery.
23rd May 2023 – SURGERY DAY – I was nervous. This feeling surfaced as soon as I was led to an operational white reclining chair. It resembled an astronaut’s capsule with many floodlights of all shapes and sizes. I made a humorous remark, “Please wake me up when we reach the moon!” I did not get any remarks! Suddenly, I felt my body and my head covered up and tied down, and the surgery began almost right away. I could not see anything except a bright spotlight, which I was told to focus on!
The procedure caused me a little discomfort, but I was more nervous than uncomfortable. My eye feels as if it is being washed by some liquid at times. Despite hearing voices around me, I could not understand their conversations.
My return to Ward 11 was a relief. The procedure was shorter than I expected and, importantly, it was not as invasive as I thought it would be. After surgery, a patch was put on my eye to protect it. After a short observation time, I was allowed to go home. I received instructions to come back for a check-up in a few days to recover.
I was given two types of medicated eye drops, MAXITROL and TOBREX, to help prevent infection and reduce inflammation. It’s crucial to give 1 drop of each type every 2 hours. Follow the directions exactly as given. Adhere strictly to the schedule provided by the Doctor and his team. I experience mild discomfort or irritation afterwards. My granddaughter, Shania, and my house helper, Maricel, were my lifelines, assisting me with the eyedrops when I couldn’t comfortably do it myself. Their help was indispensable. My daughter Ruey Ru set up alarms on their mobile phones. The alarms remind them to give the eye drops on time.
The cataract discussion and instructions are to avoid touching the eye. Do not rub your eye, as this can increase the risk of infection and slow down the healing process.
To protect my eyes: I wear brown sunglasses indoors and darker sunglasses while going outdoors. I wore a protective shield. It was provided by RIPAS. This prevented accidental contact with my eyes while sleeping or during the day.
Dr Mohan’s cataract discussion and instructions include: (a) Do not engage in any strenuous activities. Avoid activities like heavy lifting or exercise. Do this for at least a week after surgery, as this can increase the risk of bleeding and other complications.
After thorough research and consultations, I decided to move forward with the surgery. The days leading up to the procedure were filled with a mix of apprehension and hope. I learned about the process, the risks, and the incredible success rates. Knowledge empowered me, easing some of my fears.
(b) Avoid water exposure: Do not swim for at least two weeks after surgery. Keep water out of your eyes during this period. This precaution reduces the risk of infection.
(c) Attend follow-up appointments. Make sure to attend all scheduled follow-up appointments with your surgeon. This ensures that your eyes are healing properly. It also helps to handle any concerns or complications that arise.
(d) Rest and relax: Give yourself ample time to rest and recover after surgery. (e) Avoid reading, watching TV, or using a computer for long periods. Doing so can strain your eyes. It may also slow down the healing process.
The first few days post-surgery were filled with a sense of wonder as my vision gradually cleared. Colors became vibrant, and details that had once been lost returned to focus. I found myself appreciating the little things. I began to notice a flower’s petals, the texture of my favorite sweater, and the faces of my loved ones like never before.
At the side of my bed, a white frame & blue 4 tiers of plastic drawers stand out against a white wall. I focus on these plastic drawers with my left eye, and they seem to pop out in almost three dimensions, their colors creating a practically unbelievable contrast. The same can be said for the two-floor carpets, each boasting a unique hue that makes a striking colour difference. Even in the distance, the colour contrasts are exceptional, adding to the visual impact.
After xx check ups, Dr. Mohan declared that the my eye has recovered after phacoemulsification surgery. He prescribed to continue one type of eye drop “MAXITROL” 1 drop 3 times a day. I am eagerly waiting to have the other eye cataract surgery done. Now that I know what to expect, I feel reassured. The surgery and recovery were easier than I had anticipated.
Reflecting on my cataract surgery journey, I feel grateful for the advancements in medical technology that made this possible. If you’re considering this procedure, know that it can be life-changing. Embrace the journey with optimism and trust the process; your brighter world awaits.
Cataract surgery was a significant chapter in my life, one that transformed my vision and, ultimately, my perspective. Before the procedure, my world was increasingly cloudy, making even the simplest tasks challenging. Reading, driving, and enjoying the beauty around me began to feel like distant memories.
I am so thankful to Dr Mohan and his team at RIPAS Eye Centre. They managed to restore the vision in my eye through such technologically advanced surgery. I am also extremely fortunate to be a citizen of Brunei.
DRAFT
Memories of The Way We Were 