Cataract Surgery Expectations

Cataract surgery is a common procedure that millions of people undergo each year. It is a relatively straightforward surgery that involves removing the clouded lens of the eye and replacing it with an artificial lens. However, if you're scheduled for cataract surgery, you may still have questions and concerns about what to expect. In this blog post, we'll explore what you can expect before, during, and after your cataract surgery.

Before Surgery

Before your cataract surgery, you will have a comprehensive eye exam to determine the health of your eyes and the extent of your cataracts. Your surgeon or their staff will also discuss with you the type of artificial lens that will be implanted, as well as the benefits and risks of the surgery.

The choice of implant is an important decision that you will need to make with your surgeon before the cataract surgery. There are different types of artificial lenses available, and each has its own benefits and limitations.

One type of implant is a monofocal lens, which can improve your vision for one distance only, such as distance vision. This means that you may still need to wear glasses or contact lenses to correct your vision for other distances. However, monofocal lenses are often covered by insurance, and they can provide excellent visual clarity.

Another type of implant is a multifocal lens, which can provide improved vision at multiple distances, such as near, intermediate, and far. This means that you may not need to wear glasses or contact lenses as often or at all after the surgery. However, multifocal lenses can be more expensive and may not be covered by insurance.

There are also toric lenses available, which can correct astigmatism, and extended depth of focus lenses, which can provide good vision at multiple distances without the halo effect that some people may experience with multifocal lenses.

Your surgeon will consider your individual needs, lifestyle, and preferences when recommending the type of implant that is best for you. It is important to have an open and honest conversation with your surgeon about your expectations and goals for the surgery to ensure that you choose the right type of implant for your needs.

You may need to stop taking certain medications, such as blood thinners, before the surgery to reduce the risk of bleeding.

On the day of the surgery, you will need to arrange for transportation to and from the surgery center since you will not be able to drive after the procedure. You will also need to follow any fasting or preoperative instructions given by your surgeon.

During Surgery

Cataract surgery typically takes about 15 to 30 minutes to complete and is usually performed under local anesthesia. This means you will be awake during the procedure, but your eye will be numbed with eye drops or an injection. You will also receive a mild sedative to help you relax.

Your surgeon will use a small incision to remove the clouded lens and replace it with an artificial lens. There are two main techniques for removing the lens: phacoemulsification and extracapsular cataract extraction. Phacoemulsification uses ultrasound waves to break up the lens, which is then suctioned out through a small tube. Extracapsular cataract extraction involves making a larger incision to remove the lens in one piece.

After the lens is removed, your surgeon will insert the artificial lens. The incision is usually small enough that it does not require stitches and will heal on its own.

After Surgery

After the surgery, you will need to rest for a short period and then be allowed to go home. Your surgeon will prescribe eye drops to help prevent infection and inflammation, and to promote healing. You may need to wear an eye patch or shield for a few days after the surgery to protect your eye.

It is normal to experience some discomfort, redness, and blurred vision in the days following the surgery. You should avoid activities that could strain your eyes for a few days.

Most people experience significant improvement in their vision within a few days after cataract surgery. However, it may take a few weeks for your eye to fully heal and for your vision to stabilize. You will have follow-up appointments with your surgeon to monitor your progress and ensure that you are healing properly. Typically the follow ups include one day and one week with your surgeon, and a one month follow up with your optometrist

In Conclusion

Cataract surgery is a safe and effective procedure that can significantly improve your vision and quality of life. By understanding what to expect before, during, and after the surgery, you can feel more comfortable and confident going into the procedure. If you have any questions or concerns, don't hesitate to discuss them with your surgeon.