Finding Magic in Medicine: An Ophthalmologist’s Journey Through Cataract Surgery By Kimberly Hsu, DVM, MSc, DACVO
As veterinarians, we share the goal of improving the quality of life of our patients and of strengthening the human animal bond. For me, as a veterinary ophthalmologist, cataract surgery has always represented my opportunity to, no pun intended, make a visible difference for a patient and their family. As I’ve progressed in my career, this surgery has continued to capture my imagination, challenge me, and inspire me.
Getting My Start: Chasing Magic and Happy Endings It’s cliché, but the day I decided on Ophthalmology specialization was the day I watched my first cataract surgery. It was the first week of clinical rotations during my final year of veterinary school. I remember marveling in the beauty of the swirling, cloudy lens fragments being aspirated out of the eye. It felt like magic and medicine had collided, restoring clarity and vision almost instantly. Furthermore, the transformation in our patient – from the nervous, tentative dog at drop-off to the tail-wagging, exuberant dog at pick-up – was dramatic and humbling. That moment where a previously blind dog recognizes its owner and leads the way towards them is nothing short of amazing. I knew that day that my calling in veterinary medicine was going to be to facilitate more joyous reunions.
Taking Flight: Finding My Breath I remember my first complete cataract surgery vividly. Much like playing scales on the piano, I had spent my entire first year of residency practicing each component step of surgery over and over. Despite this, under the magnification of the operating microscope, the trembling of my hands resembled a small earthquake. I tried breathing deeply. When that didn’t work, I tried holding my breath. Somehow, in spite of my nerves, I was able to successfully remove the cataract and place an intraocular lens implant. I think through the intensity of my focus, I forgot to stop and appreciate the significance of the moment. It finally hit me when to celebrate: our ophthalmology technicians made me a nametag sticker that stated in bold letters “I did my first cataract surgery today,” beside which they pasted a purple dog with big googly eyes. It felt like a literal badge of honor, and I wore it proudly.
Holding Steady: Self-Care for the OR With time and practice, I have learned to steady my nerves and my hands. Similar to in a yoga class, during critical steps of surgery, I am acutely aware of my breath and can now control it even in moments of stress. We have all heard, particularly in times like these, that self-care translates into better patient
EXPERT TIP: Are there cataract emergencies? Although many cataracts are slowly progressive and elective cataract surgery can usually be scheduled without urgency, there are exceptions. Cataracts that are rapidly forming, intumescent or ruptured, such as those in young dogs or diabetics, often require aggressive medical treatment and prompt surgical removal.
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