What is Posterior Subcapsular Cataract?

While cataracts tend to be discussed as a single condition, there are different kinds. One of these is posterior subcapsular cataracts. If you’ve been diagnosed with this, then you’re bound to want to understand a little more about the condition.

Is it common? Is it treatable? Should you be worried? These, along with many other FAQs, are answered below.

All About Posterior Subcapsular Cataract

• What is posterior subcapsular cataract?
• Should I be worried about my diagnosis?
• How is posterior subcapsular cataract treated?
• What’s the recovery time after a cataract operation?

What is posterior subcapsular cataract?

Posterior subcapsular is the least common type of cataract, accounting for around 3% of all those that are diagnosed. It’s most commonly found in those who:

• Have diabetes
• Use long-term steroids
• Have high myopia
• Smoke 
• Have suffered from eye trauma
• Have radiation exposure
• Suffer from inflammatory eye conditions, such as uveitis
• Suffer from atopic dermatitis (a skin disorder)

It’s quite a fast-growing cataract, typically needing treatment within a few years of being diagnosed, rather than decades

Should I be worried about my diagnosis?

No… While it is a rarer kind, there are still many ways to manage and ultimately have definitive treatment. The biggest issue with this type is its speed of progression. That’s why it’s important to partner with a cataract-specific eye doctor to ensure the right monitoring and management until an operation is performed.

How is posterior subcapsular cataract treated?

It’s treated in exactly the same way as other types of cataracts. An operation is performed to break down the diseased lens and replace it with an artificial one. This is generally carried out in the doctor’s office on an outpatient basis—this means you go home the same day.

The choices of operation are either traditional cataract removal or laser-assisted. Depending on the type of artificial lens (IOL) you choose, the latter might be necessary. This is because the most advanced premium lenses require the enhanced accuracy of laser cataract surgery. However, all the pros and cons of lens choice and operation type will be fully discussed with your cataract surgeon well before the procedure takes place.

What’s the recovery time after a cataract operation?

As mentioned, you’ll go home the same day the operation is performed. Full recovery takes around 6-8 weeks. During this time, you’ll need to refrain from heavy exercise or lifting heavy objects. The need to do so will reduce during the recovery period.

The most inconvenience you’ll suffer is in the days and first couple of weeks post-surgery. You’ll need to wear an eye patch when you sleep and be careful about bending down. However, many people experience improved vision almost straight after the procedure. Depending on the type of lens you choose to be fitted, you may need new eyeglasses once fully recovered. But you’ll be encouraged to use the eye as soon as possible after the operation, so you will be able to read and watch TV straight away. 

You should also be able to drive again within a few days. With virtually a 100% success rate for cataract removal and the large proportion of people experiencing a speedy recovery, there’s really no need to be overly concerned—no matter what kind of cataract you’ve been diagnosed with.

The Modern Cataract Surgery Clinic Treats Posterior Subcapsular Cataract and all Other Types

Whatever type of cataracts you or a loved one might have, there’s a single factor that underlines them all: they will—at some point—need definitive treatment. Whether this is immediate, such as for genetic or traumatic cataracts, or in the future, there’s no better place to be cared for than the Modern Cataract Surgery Clinic.

Discover more at https://www.moderncataractsurgery.com