Is your vision cloudy or blurry? This is a common sign that you could have cataracts.
Sometimes, cataracts are mild, making it easy to keep enjoying everyday activities. At a certain point though, your cataracts may worsen, making it impossible to take part in the things you love.
When this happens, it’s time to think about cataract surgery. Keep reading to learn about some things to expect when you have cataract surgery!
Things To Know Before Having Cataract Surgery
Although the procedure is safe, you’ll have to address certain medical conditions before surgery. You’ll need to treat conditions like glaucoma before cataract surgery can be successful.
Other, non-eye related conditions like hypertension or diabetes must also be under control. If you take prescribed medications, check with your doctor to make sure they won’t interfere with your procedure.
During your cataract consultation, it is important to discuss your IOL options with your eye doctor. IOLs or intraocular lenses are artificial lenses.
These replace the natural lens during cataract surgery. There are different kinds of IOLs available, depending on your lifestyle, budget, and needs. Your eye doctor will also recommend which IOL they think will be best for you.
What Happens During Surgery?
Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure, meaning you can go home afterwards. It takes about thirty minutes to complete.
Before the procedure begins, you’ll receive numbing eye drops. After your eyes are completely numb, the surgeon will begin.
They will create a small incision in the eye, followed by a process called phacoemulsification. Phacoemulsification involves using sound waves to gently break up the lens and then vacuum the broken pieces out.
After removing all pieces of the lens, the IOL is then placed where the natural lens once was. This is the only way to ensure you’ll have clear vision after cataract surgery.
After the surgery, a shield or bandage is used to protect the eye. You are typically required to rest for half an hour before you can go home.
This allows the medications to wear off. Before you leave, the doctor will tell you how to care for your eyes. Make sure you have a friend or loved one that can drive you home, as you are not allowed to drive.
What Happens After Surgery?
Your vision may be blurry or seem distorted after cataract surgery, especially on the day of. This is because your eyes have not adjusted to your new lens.
This is normal. It will take some for your eyes to adjust. After a few days, your vision should start to stabilize and be much clearer.
It is important to visit your eye doctor for follow-up appointments to make sure that your eyes are recovering well. Your doctor will also provide prescription eye drops, as well as other medications. These will help reduce inflammation and prevent infections.
Safety tips for your cataract surgery recovery:
- Do not rub your eye after the procedure.
- Do not drive for at least a week.
- Do not expose your eye to substances known to irritate eyes such as dust, or pollen.
- Avoid strenuous activities for a week.
- While sleeping, make sure you use your eye shield.
Concerned that you may need cataract surgery? Schedule a cataract screening at South Texas Eye Institute in San Antonio, TX today!
If your vision seems like it’s blurry or deteriorating, cataracts may be the reason why!
