Cataracts FAQs
What is a cataract?
A cataract is a “clouding” of the natural crystalline lens inside your eye. It is similar to a steamed-up or blurred focusing lens inside a camera. Ultraviolet exposure, genetics, aging, diabetes, trauma, and the use of steroid medicines can all cause cataracts. They are removed using a procedure called phacoemulsification, which is an ultrasonic process of internal fragmentation allowing for small, sutureless incisions, pain-free surgery, and rapid rehabilitation.
What specialized diagnostic tests should I expect during my initial evaluation?
Must I have my cataract removed?
You MUST have your cataract removed only if delay in its removal could cause permanent damage to your eye. If the cataract is causing glaucoma or is preventing necessary treatment of the back of the eye, then the cataract should be removed immediately to prevent further injury.
For improvement in vision, the cataract procedure is elective. However, the best visual results are obtained in patients who don’t postpone surgery until the cataract is extremely dense and more difficult to remove. In addition, patients who delay surgery tend to have higher complication rates than those who have regular check-ups and opt for surgery when visual difficulties are no longer improved by a change in glasses. In keeping with our philosophy, we are treating the patient, not the eye, and the surgeon and patient must together discuss the goals of surgery. The goal should not be simply to improve vision, but to significantly improve vision along with your lifestyle.
Will my medical problems prevent me from undergoing cataract surgery safely?
Pre-operatively we ask a family physician to evaluate you in order to ensure that your blood pressure, blood sugar, and general medical problems are under control. Since the procedure is performed with anesthetic drops alone (no injections), there is minimal risk associated with the procedure. The topical medications used during surgery are the same classes of medications used during the pre-operative exam. If you tolerate the pre-operative examination, then you should do well with the procedure.
What about my age?
Any patient who can undergo a thorough eye examination can undergo surgery if the procedure is performed with a topical anesthetic-drops alone. We do ask that a family member or friend accompany you for the procedure, which takes only 5-10 minutes. The pre-operative preparation takes approximately 90 minutes and we will observe you for an additional 30 minutes post-operatively to ensure your safety and to review your post-operative instructions.
What if my family doctor tells me I can’t be put to sleep for the surgery?
You will not be put to sleep during our surgery. With topical anesthesia, we administer only a minimal amount of relaxing medication so that you will remain conscious during the surgery. You will remain comfortable throughout the entire procedure and recover very quickly post-operatively.
What if I am using blood thinners like Coumadin?
Unlike other surgeries, cataract surgery is virtually a bloodless procedure. Therefore, you may safely undergo this surgery while remaining on blood thinners. In fact, we ask that you take all of your medications up to, and including, the day of surgery.
Do I have to avoid all activities post-operatively?
No. You will be able to bend over immediately after surgery, pick up 20-30 pounds, and shower, provided you don’t get water into your operative eye. We do ask that you wear an eye shield at bedtime for the first few weeks after surgery so that you do not inadvertently rub the eye during sleep. Typical follow-up evaluations are scheduled at 1 day, 1 week, 3 weeks, and 6 weeks, with glasses being prescribed between the 3rd and 6th week visit. These check-ups can be conveniently scheduled with your local eye doctor who will relay your report electronically to Commonwealth Eye Surgery.
