What Is Cataract Surgery and How Do You Prepare For It?
If you are one of the many Americans with cataracts, everyday tasks can be more difficult. However, you may not have to live this way forever. You may be a candidate for cataract surgery. After the procedure, you can see clearly again.
Here is some important information to consider about cataract surgery.
What's Involved in Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery is an outpatient procedure that can typically be completed in less than an hour. Before your surgeon begins the procedure, he or she will numb your eye with a local anesthetic to ensure maximum comfort. Once the numbing effect kicks in, your surgeon will make a small incision in the front of your eye. Then, he or she will separate the cataract with a laser and remove it from your eye. Next, your surgeon will insert the artificial lens behind your eye.
How Do You Get Ready for Cataract Surgery?
In order to have a successful cataract surgery, it is important to prepare properly for it. Here are some steps to take before your procedure.
Stop Taking Your Medications: Your ophthalmologist may ask you to cease taking certain medications before your surgery. For example, you will likely been required to stop taking blood thinning medications.
Do not Eat or Drink Before Your Procedure: You should avoid eating or drinking anything for at least eight hours before your surgery. If you have anything in your stomach, it can react negatively with the sedation.
Ask a Family or Friend to Drive You Home: After cataract surgery, you will likely feel tired and have foggy vision. Therefore, you will not be able to drive yourself home. It is important to arrange transportation with a trusted family member or friend before your procedure.
Avoid Wearing Makeup: It is important to be makeup free for your cataract surgery. If makeup particles get into your eyes during the procedure, they can cause an infection.
Ask Your Eye Doctor Questions: There is no such thing as asking too many questions about your surgery. For example, you may want to find about the recovery process and what the risks are. Do not hesitate to ask your eye doctor any of these questions.
If you believe you are a great candidate for cataract surgery, you should make an appointment with an ophthalmologist near you. He or she can assess your condition and tell you more about the procedure. Reach out to learn more about the recovery process and to get your questions answered.
