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What To Expect When You Need Cataract Surgery

27 November 2017

Edward Payne

With age, many people experience cataracts. In fact, more than 20 million people over 40 have cataracts and over 6 million have undergone surgery. This condition occurs when the eye can no longer see clearly and gets cloudy. To remove the cloudiness, a person requires surgery. During the three-hour surgery, the doctor replaces the lens in your eye with a new lens. Here is the information to know if you think you have cataracts. 

Symptoms

The biggest symptom of cataracts is cloudy vision. This will be especially noticeable at night. You may also see rings around lights or experience sensitivity to light. Colors will change, too, becoming more yellow. If you notice a change in your vision or more difficulty reading, those are also signs you need to go to your doctor. 

Diagnosis

If you think that you have cataracts, the first thing to do is schedule an appointment with your optometrist. The doctor will administer tests to determine if you have cataracts or not. After it's determined that you do have cataracts, your doctor will administer more tests to decide which lens is best for you. Some lenses only assist with near-sightedness. Newer options can also increase far-sightedness as well. 

Preparing

• Certain medications, particularly for prostate conditions, may cause bleeding. Tell your doctor about any medications you take. 
• Antibiotic eyedrops are available to reduce the risk of bacterial infection.
• Get a ride home from a friend or family member. You will not be able to drive after the surgery. Most people return to normal activity after 48 hours, but you may also want to ask for help around the house for a couple of days. 
• Avoid wearing any makeup the day of the surgery, especially eye makeup. 
• Avoid alcohol for 24 hours before surgery.
• Fast for 12 hours before surgery. 
• Shower and wear clean clothes into the surgery to keep the environment sterile. 

After Surgery

After the surgery, prepare for an adjustment period. Your vision may be blurry and sensitive for a couple of days. Your eyes will fully recover within a month of the surgery. Your doctor will have you come in around this time to check your progress. If your cataract eye surgery went well, your doctor may suggest getting the surgery on your other eye at this point. After surgery, you will continue to get regular checkups every year to ensure that you are not experiencing any complications or additional cataracts. 

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