We have compiled the following Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) on cataract surgery, commonly heard from patients at our practice.
The surgery itself takes approximately 15 minutes, but expect to be there for about 2 – 4 hours for preparation and recovery.
No, the cataract has to be visually significant before removal. The longer you wait to have cataract surgery, the more difficult it is to remove.
No, cataracts are removed with high frequency sound waves called ultrasound. Lasers are however used in other areas of treatment for the eyes.
All doctors, including ours, prefer to do cataract surgery one eye at a time with a couple of weeks in between so that we can ensure the eye is healing properly.
Surgery is done with a local anesthetic. You will be awake and comfortable. Some patients experience slight discomfort – should this happen, please make your surgeon aware.
Yes, an Intraocular Lens (IOL) is an artificial lens that will be implanted to replace your cloudy lens. This allows the patient to avoid needing thick glasses or contact lenses after surgery.
No, but in some patients the tissue behind the lens implant may become cloudy. This is known as capsular fibrosis and can be easily and painlessly treated with a YAG laser.
The lens will remain in place and last the rest of your life.
We perform no-stitch cataract surgery. If necessary, one stitch may be required and placed in a way that the patient will be unaware that it is there, and will be slowly absorbed by the body.
Right after surgery, but avoid letting water run directly into the eyes.
While most patients can safely drive 24 hours after surgery, each patient’s case is evaluated on an individual basis.
With standard cataract surgery, you may need a light prescription for distance and over the counter reading glasses for close. There are other lens options for those who wish to reduce their dependence on glasses after surgery and we will discuss these in detail with you.
Typically, 6 weeks after surgery, allowing time for the eyes to heal so we can provide you with the right prescription for the best possible vision.
That usually depends upon your occupation. Typically, at your one day post-operative check-up, your doctor will check your vision and let you know when you can return to work.
Avoid wearing eye makeup for at least one week after your surgery.
Usually the day after surgery, but you’ll want to avoid lifting heavy weights for at least the first week.
You may swim two weeks following your surgery, and may do water aerobics one week after surgery as long as you do not put your head under water.
Use of aspirin and other blood thinners can usually be resumed the day after surgery.