Difficulty: Moderately Easy
Learn to Prepare for Cataract Surgery
Step1
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.
Step2
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.
Step3
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.
Step4
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.
Step5
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.
Step6
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.
Step7
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.