21-Jun-07 your dog had cataract surgery to remove the cloudy lens in RIGHT eye. The surgery was performed by the most modern technique called "phacoemulsification" where the cloudy lens is removed through a small incision. This method makes use of a small probe that shatters the cataract into tiny pieces and then this same probe serves as a vacuum to remove the cataract pieces.
Your dog then had an artificial lens placed in the eye to replace the natural lens. We have found lens replacement to be quite valuable in obtaining sharper vision for our patients. You will receive an identification card that will specify the lens type, size and power.
Just as human cataract surgery, some patients regain vision immediately after surgery while others require the full six week healing process. You should not be discouraged if your dog does not seem to be see well right away - especially when the protective Elizabethan collar narrows the vision!
Recovery from The General Anaesthesia your dog should now be fully recovered from the anaesthetic and can be given normal amounts of food and water.
What To Look For Some redness or cloudiness near the incision at the top of the eye is to be expected. You should call us if you see the following: overall 'blueness' to the eye, severe squinting, significant resistant to, or pain when receiving medications, or severe redness. Approximately 3 to 6 weeks after surgery you may notice some redness and swelling on the top of the eye. This is due to the sutures dissolving. You may in some cases note slight clouding inside the pupil, this is not the cataract recurring, but slight opacification of the lens capsule. This usually has no effect on the dog's vision.
The Lamp On The Head WARNING! Cataract surgery is a delicate procedure! To prevent your dog from rubbing at the eye, a protective "elizabethan" collar has been placed. Some of your friends and family might make fun of your dog and call your dog "conehead"or "satellite dish" but pls keep the collar on at all times!
Your dog will be able to eat or drink, and sleep with the collar on, but if you feel that your dog is having difficulty, pls call the practice for suggestions.
THE COLLAR CAN BE REMOVED 7 days after the surgery.
Medications Pls ensure the eye is clean of all discharge before administering any medication to the eye. Pls contact our clinic if you do not have enough medication to last until your next visit. PLS BRING ALL MEDICATION WITH YOU TO EVERY APPOINTMENT FOLLOWING SURGERY.
