Preparing For Surgery
Surgery is the only way to remove cataracts and get back to clear vision. Over 4 million people have cataract surgery every year. The procedure is considered one of the safest performed today and generally takes less than 30 minutes.
What can I expect before cataract surgery?
If you and your ophthalmologist agree cataract surgery is right for you, this is a good time to tell your ophthalmologist how you would like to see after cataract surgery so you can both determine the lens option best suited for your vision goals and eye health.
How can I prepare my eyes for surgery?
Dry eye is one of the most common conditions seen by Canadian eye doctors. In fact, it’s estimated that more than 21 per cent of Canadians may be experiencing dry eye symptoms. It’s important that the surface of your eye is stable for accurate preoperative testing and to optimize your vision results after surgery.
To help prepare, you can start lubricating your eyes using artificial tears before your preoperative testing and up to your surgery. If your eye doctor sees signs of moderate to severe dry eye, they may suggest a tailored treatment plan to improve your ocular surface health.
Are there any tips for scheduling my cataract surgery appointment?
Cataract surgery has plenty of lifestyle benefits beyond vision. The best time is whenever you’re ready. Of course, precise scheduling depends on the individual patient and eye doctor. In most cases, the procedure is performed on one eye at a time, so while the process is far from invasive, you should prepare to repeat it twice.
The procedure does involve an anesthetic, so make sure you have arranged for safe transportation home. The vast majority of patients resume day-to-day activities a few days following the procedure. Still, patients returning home from cataract surgery are encouraged to rest and let their eyes heal.
What should I do to prepare for the day of my cataract surgery?
Here are some key things to remember the day of your procedure.
- Arrange for transportation home after the procedure.
- Avoid smoking.
- Do not apply makeup.
- Wear comfortable clothing.
- Follow additional instructions from your eye doctor.
Be sure to talk to your eye doctor about your daily medications. They will advise if you should take or avoid certain medications on the day of surgery.
After your surgery, continue lubricating your eyes as instructed by your surgeon. Inflammation is not uncommon after surgery, and you may find you use artificial tears more immediately following your surgery.
Did you know that surgery can correct other vision conditions like presbyopia and astigmatism as well as cataracts?
Talk to your eye doctor about your vision goals and learn more about lens options before your surgery.
What is the cataract surgery procedure in detail?
The cataract surgery procedure generally involves the following steps:
- 1. A topical anesthetic is applied to numb your eye(s).
- 2. A tiny incision is made in the cornea.
- 3. A specialized instrument is used to break up and remove the cataract.
- 4. A new Intraocular Lens implant (IOL) is inserted where the cataract once was.
- 5. You may be given an eyepatch to use as directed during the early post operative period.
Does cataract surgery have implications beyond eye care?
Yes, there are several benefits to cataract surgery beyond improved vision. They include:
- Reduced risk of cognitive decline
- Increase in happiness
- Reduced risk of falls and hip fractures
- Walking faster and sleeping better