How to Prepare for Cataract Surgery

Cataract surgery can be an effective way to correct your vision. When you have a cataract, it means that there is a buildup of protein over part of your eye, usually due to deposits from your contact lenses or aging. Cataracts will sometimes cause blurry vision, in which case you should prepare for surgery to correct your problems.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Learn to Prepare for Cataract Surgery

1. Discuss the benefits and expectations of your surgery. Your surgeon and eye doctor should be able to explain to you exactly how your vision will change after the surgery.
2. Learn about your exact procedure. Most cataract surgeries require the insertion of a special contact lens once the cataract is dissolved. You'll also want to know if the procedure is being done on both eyes to keep your vision balanced.
3. Formulate your recovery plan. You'll probably be wearing an eye patch for the first day after surgery, but you'll also have to prepare to avoid heavy lifting, touching your eye and looking at bright lights.
4. Talk about your post-surgery medication with your eye doctor. Most cataract surgery patients have to take eye drops to speed the recovery process. Be sure that you know how to properly use your medication and aren't allergic to any of it.
5. Sign an Informed Consent health waiver before your operation. Your surgeon will require you to sign this document, which explains that you understand your surgery, the risks and will release the surgeon from certain legal liabilities. Ask about any uncertainties that you have before signing it.
6. Make arrangements to have someone drive you around after surgery. A test is usually done 1 to 2 days after surgery to see if your eyes are operating normally and if they are, you'll be allowed to drive.
7. Find out if you'll still need corrective glasses after surgery. Many cataract patients, despite having clear vision after surgery, still require glasses for distance vision and reading. If you normally wear contact lenses, ask your doctor if wearing them will still be possible after surgery.

Tips & Warnings

• Ask about the type of anesthesia you'll be given during surgery. Most often cataract removal is done with local anesthesia and a mild sedative, but in some cases a surgeon will use general anesthesia.
• Find out how long you'll have to stay home from work. Talk to your employer about paid leave during your recovery.
• Be sure to visit your eye doctor regularly during your recovery time. You'll need to be checked frequently in case of complications.