What to Expect During Cataract Surgery
What Happens During Cataract Surgery?
Cataract surgery involves replacing a clouded lens with an intraocular lens (IOL). A local anesthetic is used to numb your eye, ensuring minimal pain during the procedure. You will be awake but drowsy and won’t be able to see what’s happening in your eyes.
During surgery, you will lie on your back and look at a bright light. Our certified anesthesiologists will provide local anesthesia. The procedure starts with a small incision near the edge of your cornea. An ultrasound is then used to break down the cataract.
The old lens is taken out through a small cut, and a new, clear lens is put in its place during surgery. This step typically takes about 15 minutes. Before surgery, there is time for preparation. After surgery, there is a short rest period in the office.
Many patients are concerned about seeing or feeling unpleasant sensations. However, most patients do not experience discomfort or recall much about the cataract surgery process.
Is Cataract Surgery Safe?
Cataract surgery is one of the most frequently performed procedures. Annually, over 4 million Americans and 20 million individuals worldwide undergo this surgery to eliminate cataracts. These surgeries are considered among the safest in modern medicine, enabling millions of patients to improve their quality of life by restoring clearer vision. The cataract specialists at SightMD are dedicated to delivering optimal results to our patients in every clinical setting.
During routine cataract surgery, our board-certified eye surgeons conduct the procedure through microscopic incisions. They utilize eye drops and IV sedation to numb the eye’s surface. Patients remain in their own clothes and can return home shortly after the surgery is completed. We typically avoid using needles, stitches, or an eye patch post-surgery.
Recovery from Cataract Surgery
Once the new IOL is implanted, it becomes a permanent fixture in your eye, offering improved vision in the long run. Since the procedure is typically done one eye at a time, it may take several weeks for your eyes to feel normal. Some mild discomfort, such as itchiness or slight but persistent pain, may occur post-surgery.
Additionally, there might be some fluid discharge, and your eyes may be sensitive to light and touch for a couple of days. Medicated eye drops are usually prescribed to alleviate discomfort and aid in the healing process. It’s common to experience distorted vision as your eyes adjust to the new artificial lens. Full adjustment may take up to a month.
During the recovery period, you should adhere to all instructions provided by your cataract surgeon. Allowing your eyes to fully heal is paramount during the recovery phase. It’s important to avoid getting water in your eyes. When showering, make a conscious effort to keep water out of your eyes by keeping them closed.
When Can I Drive After Cataract Surgery?
For your safety, you won’t be able to drive on the day of cataract surgery, so be sure to arrange a ride home. Many patients are able to resume driving within a day or two, once their vision meets legal driving requirements. Because recovery varies by individual, you should only drive after your doctor confirms it is safe to do so at your follow-up appointment.
Can I Exercise After Cataract Surgery?
After surgery, you should avoid participating in strenuous activities that could increase your eye pressure. This includes intense workouts, bending at the waist, swimming, and playing contact sports, at least in the first week. Your SightMD physician will furnish you with guidelines on how to commence your recovery post cataract surgery.
Are There Potential Risks After Cataract Surgery?
Complications associated with cataract surgery may include, but are not limited to, the following:
- infection
- swelling
- loss of vision
- double vision
- pressure on the eye
Better Vision After Cataract Surgery
If you are experiencing vision problems due to cataracts and require surgery to correct them, you may be struggling with clear eyesight. Cataract surgery, along with the implementation of intraocular lenses, can significantly enhance your vision.
Since cataracts cause a clouding of the lens, traditional eyeglasses or contact lenses are ineffective in correcting the issue. By undergoing cataract surgery with IOLs, the lost clarity of vision accumulated over time can be restored. The profound effect that enhanced vision can have on an individual’s life is difficult to quantify.
Contact SightMD to schedule an appointment with a doctor to talk about your vision at one of our convenient locations.